NEWS
The Malua Theological College PhD programme was formally inaugurated on 11 March 2026 in an induction ceremony that marked the beginning of an exciting journey for all involved, especially for MTC and the EFKS.
The gathering opened with a devotion led by Rev. Prof. Vaitusi Nofoaiga, the college’s principal, who shared a Gospel message on theological growth and service.
This induction brought together our inaugural students, a diverse group that includes Elders, Reverends, recent MTC graduates, and scholarship recipients. We were especially honoured to welcome a scholarship student from Kiribati who joined us in person, underscoring the programme’s regional and international reach.
We were also privileged to have special guests, including Rev. Dr. Latu Latai and Rev. Dr. Aukilani Tuai, former MTC lecturers, who will play an important role in supporting and supervising parts of the PhD programme.
A total of 12 students make up this first group. While many attended in person, others joined via Zoom from abroad – including participants from the United States and Australia – demonstrating the global scope of this initiative.
The induction was not only a formal commencement, but also a celebration of community calling and shared vision. All the best on the journey ahead!
On 31 March, Malua was honoured to welcome representatives from the University of Otago to Malua Theological College. Their visit was a significant moment for our community, reflecting a long-standing partnership grounded in mutual support and shared vision. A highlight of the visit was the generous gifting of 20 laptops to Malua Theological College. These resources will greatly enhance our academic and library services. The laptops were formally presented at the library, where our guests were shown how they are already being put to good use in supporting research and learning within the Malua library. The group also enjoyed a brief tour of the library.
Following this, we gathered at the Fale o Tina for the formal welcome. Dr Mariota Seiuli guided the proceedings, and the programme began with an opening prayer led by Rev. Assoc. Prof. Arthur Wulf. A traditional ava ceremony was then conducted, symbolising hospitality and the safe arrival of our guests from Otago.
An exchange of speeches followed, beginning with the principal, Rev. Prof. Vaitusi Nofoaiga, who expressed gratitude and acknowledged the enduring relationship between Malua and Otago over many years. In response, Vice Chancellor, Honourable Grant Robertson, along with Rev Prof. Murray Rae and Rev. Dr. Terry Pouono, conveyed their appreciation and reaffirmed the strength of this partnership, also offering thanks for the gifts presented by Malua, which were hand-made by Mile Nofoaiga and our very own faletua.
The visit concluded with a shared meal and cultural performance by the Malua community, including singing and traditional dances, celebrating fellowship and the deepening of relationships between our institutions. Thank you, University of Otago, for your generosity, and may God bless this partnership!
It was a privilege to host Prof. Cyril Hovorun, a guest speaker at our college, who offered a thought-provoking reflection on political theology and its implications in today’s world. In his presentation, Prof. Hovorun explored how Christianity has, at times, been weaponized within political systems and used to legitimize power, control, and even injustice. Drawing on historical examples, such as the era of Joseph Stalling, the atrocities of the Holocaust, he highlighted the dangers of aligning theology uncritically with political authority.
Moreover, he described two broad trajectories (tracks) within political theology: one that tends toward conservatism, and another that seeks transformation. While acknowledging these tensions, Prof. Hovorun emphasized that political theology is not inherently negative, but can contribute meaningfully and ethically to public life if approached with discernment. Importantly, the implication of his presentation was: how can we faithfully and responsibly navigate the relationship between Church and State? This sparked a rich and engaging discussion among students and faculty, with many insightful contributions from our community.
The event concluded with a shared meal, providing further opportunities for discussion. We extend our sincere gratitude to Prof. Cyril Hovorun for his time and generosity in engaging with our Malua Community.
On the 12th of March, the College gathered for a fellowship farewell meal in honour of Rev. Esera Esera and Faletua, Pauline Esera and their children, as they prepare to take up a new call to ministry at Cannons Creek in Wellington, New Zealand. The College and the Community shared a meal and warm fellowship, celebrating the family’s faithful service and meaningful contributions to the College’s life.
Rev. Esera Esera has served diligently within the Theology Department as a lecturer, shaping and guiding students in their theological formation. In addition to his academic role, he also carried significant responsibility as the canteen leader, overseeing the daily provisions and practical needs of the Community.
Pauline Esera likewise played an important role within the College, serving on the library team and contributing to the care and management of its resources. Beyond this, she was actively involved in Sunday School, nurturing and teaching the younger kids of the Community.
Their children were also deeply engaged in the life of the College, participating in Sunday School, Literacy, Reading, and other children’s programmes, contributing to the vibrant spirit of Malua.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Esera family for their dedicated service, commitment, and the many ways they have enriched our Community. Prayers and Blessings on this new journey. God Guide!
[posted 05 January 2026]
Please note the following Biblical Books that will be examined for the MTC Entrance Exams in 2026
- Old Testament Exam: JOB
- New Testament Exam: GALATIANS & EPHESIANS
- English Exam
MEDIA LINKS
For the most recent posting of MEDIA LINKS for MALUA, please follow the link provided
PUBLICATIONS
Tafatolu o Tūsiga Faa-Mataupu Silisili a Malua
The College continues to release its most recent edition of The Malua Journal during the Fono Tele each year, as a collection of articles and papers presented by members of the Faculty, during the annual Minister’s Fellowship, as well as at international conferences during the year. This annual publication, predominantly in the Samoan language (with a few English entries), continues as a significant source of theological discourse and critical knowledge.
Downloads
The College releases its bi-annual newsletter I’uleo o le Maluapapa (The Echo of the Rock-Founded Malua) during the Fono Tele and at the Malua Graduation each year. Events and activities in the life and work of the College throughout the year are reported through these publications. The Samoan language is mostly used for these publications, although some reflections and news articles are written in English from time to time.
Downloads
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
151st Malua Theological College
Prize-Giving 2025
Malua Theological College acknowledges with gratitude the following Prizes and Donors for its 151st Prize Giving in 2025
PRIZE | DONOR | COURSE | PROGRAMME | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||