Bujumbura Christian University (BCU) hosted a two-day international conference on Christian Apologetics from 23 to 24 July 2026 at its campus. Held under the theme “The Necessity of Apologetics Today,” the conference brought together theology students and faculty members for an intensive exploration of the biblical, theological, and practical foundations of Christian apologetics.
The conference featured guest speakers from the United States and Kenya. Prof. Jaime Licon, Aseka Taabu Askew, and Revd. Dr. Kevin Muriithi delivered their presentations in person, while Prof. Douglas Groothuis, based in the United States, participated remotely via videoconference. This combination of in-person and virtual presentations enriched the conference by bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise from different cultural and ministry contexts.
Over the course of two days, participants attended eleven academic sessions addressing contemporary issues in Christian apologetics and evangelism. Topics included Introduction to Jehovah’s Witnesses, Discipleship and Apologetics, How Jesus Practised Apologetics, The Islamic Dilemma, The Problem of Evil, Introduction to Mormonism, Apologetics in Africa, Practical Apologetics, and The Identity of Jesus Christ. Each day concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, providing participants with the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers, seek clarification, and discuss practical applications of the material presented.
Throughout the conference, participants engaged with a wide range of topics concerning the defence of the Christian faith in contemporary society. The presentations emphasized that Christian apologetics extends beyond the intellectual defence of biblical truth; it also requires believers to communicate the Gospel with love, humility, wisdom, and respect. The speakers encouraged participants to adopt effective and contextually appropriate approaches to evangelism while remaining faithful to the teachings of Scripture.
The conference was widely appreciated by both students and faculty members for the depth, relevance, and practical significance of its content. Participants reported that the sessions not only strengthened their understanding of Christian apologetics but also inspired a renewed commitment to evangelism and Christian witness. The conference reinforced the importance of equipping believers to articulate and defend their faith while actively participating in Christ’s mission of making disciples.
Following the conference, the visiting delegation met with members of the university staff to exchange experiences and explore opportunities for sustainable institutional collaboration. Their discussions focused on strengthening academic relationships and establishing long-term partnerships to advance theological education, Christian leadership development, and future collaborative initiatives.
In his closing remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Revd. Dr. Pascal Bigirimana expressed his sincere appreciation to the guest speakers for their valuable contributions to the conference’s success. He also expressed the University’s desire to hold the conference next year and beyond, with the vision of extending participation beyond the university community to include church leaders, theological educators, pastors, and other Christian leaders. Such an initiative, he noted, would provide a valuable platform for collaborative learning, theological reflection, and the advancement of Christian ministry in Burundi and beyond.
The conference represents another significant milestone in Bujumbura Christian University’s commitment to academic excellence, theological scholarship, and the preparation of Christian leaders who are equipped to engage thoughtfully, faithfully, and effectively with the opportunities and challenges of the contemporary world.