The nature and functions of christian academies in Zambia as a christian nation: a case study of Lusaka city, 2000-2020.
Date
2025
Authors
Mutale, Peggy
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
This study aimed at utilising the functionalist theory to explain the nature and functions of Christian academies in Zambia as a Christian nation, focusing on Lusaka city. The specific objectives of the study were to establish the type of Christian academies in Lusaka, Zambia, from 2000 to 2020; to explore the organisational structure of Christian academies in Lusaka; to examine the ethos, values and educational practices of the Christian academies; and to propose a framework for the organisation and management of Christian academies in Lusaka, Zambia (today and beyond). A case study design was used for the study, and a sample size of forty-one (41) respondents from 6 schools across Lusaka city and two officers, one from the DEBs office and another one from the affiliate organisation, was used with the participants being selected purposively. The study revealed that academies were different from one to another in terms of their nature and organisational structure. It was found that each school’s nature, functions and organisational structure depended on the proprietor's capacity and the school management's goals. It was further revealed that Christian academies fall under the category of private schools in the Zambian school system. However, unlike other private schools, these academies focus on promoting both academic and Christian values. Christian values were generally promoted through the Christian ethos and devotional activities found in these academies, and they were considered to be in line with the status of Zambia as a Christian nation. The study further revealed that academies offered additional curricula to enhance the academic performance of their learners. The study concluded that academies were schools under the category of private schools in the Zambian school system; they aim to achieve educational and religious aims to produce holistic and meaningful citizens. The study recommends that while the Christian academies might differ in certain activities that they considered important to portray each institution’s uniqueness and marketing purposes, the institutions should adopt a common framework as proposed for the effective management and
provision of education. It was also recommended that the proprietors and managers of the Christian academies should work out a way of retaining the teachers, both new graduates and retired officers, to ensure that academic continuity, including quality education, is maintained and guaranteed in the academies in the long run.
Keywords: Christian academies, organisational structure, Christian schools
Description
Thesis of Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies.