SU Open Day Series 2026 | Reading the Signs of the Times with Prof Reggie Nel
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Are you driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on society, play a public role, and change lives through leadership and service?
In this episode of our SU Open Day Series 2026, Kyle and Sanda sit down with Prof Reggie Nel, the Dean of the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University.
Known as the "mother of the university," the Faculty of Theology holds a storied legacy dating back to 1859. Today, it stands as the top-ranked theology faculty on the African continent. Prof Nel explains how a degree in theology is about far more than just church ministry; it is about cultivating a "habit of the mind" that allows graduates to navigate and lead in a complex, globalised world.
Whether you feel a calling to the ministry or are interested in careers in journalism, sustainable development, or the public sector, this episode breaks down why "reading the signs of the times" is a vital skill for the leaders of tomorrow.
What we cover in this episode:
- The Theological Advantage: Why studying at the top-ranked faculty in Africa provides a unique foundation for understanding the theological motivations behind major global issues.
- Beyond the Pulpit: Debunking the myth that theology is only for future ministers and exploring career paths in education, social work, politics, and youth work.
- Admission Pathways: A look at the 60% average requirement (excluding Life Orientation) and the specific language aptitudes needed for the 4-year BDiv programme, including Greek and Hebrew.
- A Close-Knit Community: Exploring the benefits of a smaller faculty where students, tutors, and lecturers form personal support networks and lifelong friendships.
- Leading with Purpose: Prof Nel’s advice for students who know in their "heart of hearts" that they want to influence society and advocate for social justice.
The Faculty’s Must-See Highlights:
- The "Mother Faculty" Experience: Visit the historic heart of the university and learn how this faculty established the educational character of Stellenbosch.
- Riverside Campus Tours: Take a stroll through our beautiful campus situated on the banks of the Eerste River and soak in the academic atmosphere.
- The Theology Cafeteria: Stop by our "cool" cafeteria to meet current students and experience the faculty's famous hospitality firsthand.
- Intimate Exhibition Area: Skip the massive lecture halls and enjoy direct, personal interactions with staff to get all your specific programme questions answered.
Stellenbosch University Open Day 2026 Details:
- The On-Campus Open Day is the perfect opportunity to experience our intimate faculty environment. You can chat with our lecturers, meet the Dean, and find out if a career in theology is your true calling.
When: Saturday, 18 April 2026
Time: 08:00 - 15:00
Where: Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses
Online Open Day: Launches Monday, 20 April 2026 (Available until July 2026)
IMPORTANT BOOKING INFO:
Entry to the campus is free, but booking is required for specific faculty sessions. Tickets have been available through Quicket since 18 March at 09:00. These sessions are essential for understanding selection criteria and career outcomes, so be sure to secure your spot!
Links & Resources:
Explore Theology Programmes:
https://www.su.ac.za/en/faculties/theology
Book your sessions: www.quicket.co.za
Stream MFM 92.6: www.mfm.co.za
Follow us on Socials: @mfm926
#MFM926 #StellenboschUniversity #MatiesTheology #Theology #SocialJustice #Leadership #MatiesOpenDay #StudyAtSU #ReadingTheSigns #Stellenbosch #HigherEducation 🐿️
In this episode of our SU Open Day Series 2026, Kyle and Sanda sit down with Prof Reggie Nel, the Dean of the Faculty of Theology at Stellenbosch University.
Known as the "mother of the university," the Faculty of Theology holds a storied legacy dating back to 1859. Today, it stands as the top-ranked theology faculty on the African continent. Prof Nel explains how a degree in theology is about far more than just church ministry; it is about cultivating a "habit of the mind" that allows graduates to navigate and lead in a complex, globalised world.
Whether you feel a calling to the ministry or are interested in careers in journalism, sustainable development, or the public sector, this episode breaks down why "reading the signs of the times" is a vital skill for the leaders of tomorrow.
What we cover in this episode:
- The Theological Advantage: Why studying at the top-ranked faculty in Africa provides a unique foundation for understanding the theological motivations behind major global issues.
- Beyond the Pulpit: Debunking the myth that theology is only for future ministers and exploring career paths in education, social work, politics, and youth work.
- Admission Pathways: A look at the 60% average requirement (excluding Life Orientation) and the specific language aptitudes needed for the 4-year BDiv programme, including Greek and Hebrew.
- A Close-Knit Community: Exploring the benefits of a smaller faculty where students, tutors, and lecturers form personal support networks and lifelong friendships.
- Leading with Purpose: Prof Nel’s advice for students who know in their "heart of hearts" that they want to influence society and advocate for social justice.
The Faculty’s Must-See Highlights:
- The "Mother Faculty" Experience: Visit the historic heart of the university and learn how this faculty established the educational character of Stellenbosch.
- Riverside Campus Tours: Take a stroll through our beautiful campus situated on the banks of the Eerste River and soak in the academic atmosphere.
- The Theology Cafeteria: Stop by our "cool" cafeteria to meet current students and experience the faculty's famous hospitality firsthand.
- Intimate Exhibition Area: Skip the massive lecture halls and enjoy direct, personal interactions with staff to get all your specific programme questions answered.
Stellenbosch University Open Day 2026 Details:
- The On-Campus Open Day is the perfect opportunity to experience our intimate faculty environment. You can chat with our lecturers, meet the Dean, and find out if a career in theology is your true calling.
When: Saturday, 18 April 2026
Time: 08:00 - 15:00
Where: Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses
Online Open Day: Launches Monday, 20 April 2026 (Available until July 2026)
IMPORTANT BOOKING INFO:
Entry to the campus is free, but booking is required for specific faculty sessions. Tickets have been available through Quicket since 18 March at 09:00. These sessions are essential for understanding selection criteria and career outcomes, so be sure to secure your spot!
Links & Resources:
Explore Theology Programmes:
https://www.su.ac.za/en/faculties/theology
Book your sessions: www.quicket.co.za
Stream MFM 92.6: www.mfm.co.za
Follow us on Socials: @mfm926
#MFM926 #StellenboschUniversity #MatiesTheology #Theology #SocialJustice #Leadership #MatiesOpenDay #StudyAtSU #ReadingTheSigns #Stellenbosch #HigherEducation 🐿️
