The United Theological College (UTC) boasts a rich and distinguished history spanning over six decades, rooted in a strong commitment to ecumenical theological education and the formation of transformative leaders for the Church and society.
The origins of the College can be traced back to 1954, when the Wesleyan Methodist Church, previously known as the Methodist Synod, made a strategic decision to relocate its theological training school from Waddilove to Epworth Mission. This move led to the establishment of Epworth Theological College, a decision informed by the desire to provide theological students with access to academic resources at the then University College of Rhodesia and Nyasaland.
A significant milestone followed in 1959 with the merger of the Methodist Episcopal Church, formerly the American Methodist Church, and the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe. Although the union was formally announced on 1 January 1959, preliminary discussions had commenced as early as 4 October 1955 at the Methodist Hall in Salisbury. The unfolding developments attracted keen interest from other denominations, including the American Board Mission in Boston and Mt Selinda (now the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe), the London Missionary Society, and Hope Fountain Mission.
The collaboration between the Methodist Synod and the Methodist Conference gained further momentum, leading to the formal involvement of the American Board Mission in 1961. This ecumenical spirit continued to grow, with the Evangelical Lutheran Church joining the College in 1965, followed by the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa in 1969. The inclusion of the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa brought the total number of participating churches to six, establishing the College as the largest ecumenical theological institution in the country.
In recognition of its broadened ecumenical character and expanding mandate, the institution underwent a pivotal name change in 1976, transitioning from Epworth Theological College to the United Theological College (UTC).
Over the years, UTC has steadily elevated its academic standards, progressing from offering certificate-level training to providing diploma programmes. The College now offers Diplomas in Theology and Religious Studies in partnership with the University of Zimbabwe, thereby ensuring academic rigour and relevance.
The quality of education and ministerial formation at UTC is reflected in its distinguished alumni. These include the late Professor Canaan Banana, former ceremonial president of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Bishop Eben K. Nhiwatiwa, Rev Dr. Liberty & Rev Margaret Mawire and Rev. Farai Chirisa. Their contributions bear testimony to UTC’s enduring legacy in nurturing church leaders and national figures of integrity, committed to service, justice, and transformation.