Interview
Religious fellowships are an important part of campus life for many university students. Beyond worship and spiritual activities, these fellowships often provide opportunities for leadership, personal development, mentorship and community engagement. This interview examines the role of religion among university students and how religious fellowships can respond to the changing needs of young people.
What role does religion play in the lives of university students?
Religion can play an important role in helping students develop their values and make responsible decisions. University is a period when young people are making many important choices about their lives, so having a strong foundation can help them deal with some of the challenges they face.
Why do you think students join religious fellowships on campus?
Students join for different reasons. Some are looking for spiritual growth, while others want a community where they can meet people with similar values. Fellowships can also give students opportunities to participate in leadership, seminars, community activities and other programmes.
Is the role of a religious fellowship limited to worship?
No. Worship is an important part of what we do, but students also have academic, social and personal needs. That is why programmes that focus on leadership, career development, entrepreneurship and personal growth are also important.
The fellowship recently organized the Students’ Transformation Summit. What was the idea behind the programme?
The main idea was to remind students that their development should go beyond what they learn in the classroom. We wanted students to think about their skills, talents, leadership abilities and what they can begin doing now to prepare for life after university.
Why was the theme “Empowering Students Beyond Classrooms” chosen?
Because academic knowledge alone may not be enough. Students need to develop other skills and learn how to apply what they know. We wanted to encourage them to see themselves as people who can create opportunities and contribute positively to society.
What do you think are some of the major challenges facing religious fellowships among young people today?
One major challenge is keeping young people actively engaged. Students have busy academic schedules and many other interests competing for their attention. Religious organizations therefore need to understand young people and create programmes that are meaningful and relevant to their experience
How has social media affected religion among young people?
Social media has both advantages and disadvantages. It allows religious organizations to reach young people more easily and share useful information. At the same time, students are exposed to many different opinions and influences online, so they need to be able to think critically about the information they receive.
What can religious fellowships do to remain relevant to university student?
They need to listen to students. Apart from spiritual programmes, they can organize mentorship, leadership training, career programmes, skill development and discussions about issues affecting young people. Students want to know that their religious communities understand the realities they are facing.
What message would you give to students who are not involved in any religious fellowship?
I would encourage them to find a community where they can grow and develop their values. It is important for students to have people around them who can encourage them and challenge them to become better. Ultimately, everyone has to make their own decisions about their beliefs and how they want to live.
Finally, what do you hope students take away from programmes such as the Students’ Transformation Summit?
I hope they understand that they have potential beyond their academic certificates. They should start developing their skills, identifying their strengths and thinking about how they can make an impact while they are still students.The interview highlights the changing role of religion in university communities, where spiritual development can exist alongside leadership, personal development and preparation for life beyond the classroom.
