United Theological College (UTC) has highlighted faith leaders’ key role in influencing societal values and promoting gender equality, following the launch of a four-part workshop series on Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5).
In a statement, the institution highlighted that faith leaders play a central role in defining norms of acceptable behaviour, social roles, and broader perceptions of what constitutes a meaningful life. While religion can serve as a powerful catalyst for positive change, it can also hinder progress when institutions resist gender equality.
This dual nature, the statement noted, makes religion both a critical enabler and at times, a barrier to sustainable development.
Last month, UTC commenced the first session of its workshop series under the Theology and Gender programme, led by Reverend Linah Ndhlovu. The initiative brings together the 2026 freshmen class and staff members, aiming to strengthen faith leadership’s role in promoting gender justice.
The opening session featured a presentation by Mr Patience Shava, who framed SDG 5 as “a divine mandate for modern times.”
” religion holds decisive influence, particularly within Christian communities, where teachings emphasise unity and equality. Citing biblical principles, i challenged participants to reflect on how ideals of equality can be meaningfully applied within contemporary faith settings.”
“Faith leaders are not spectators in the gender equality conversation. From the pulpit to the pew, we must name injustice, nurture dignity, and navigate change. SDG 5 is not foreign policy — it is scripture lived out in real time.”
“Equality was preached long before it was legislated. The Church must reclaim its voice, reconcile broken structures, and resource women and girls for leadership. If we wait for society to fix itself, we deny our own divine mandate.”
Discussions during the workshop revealed that while society has largely acknowledged the existence of gender disparities, there remains ongoing debate about the true meaning and application of gender equality. Participants contributed diverse perspectives, highlighting the need for a shared understanding to drive meaningful progress.
UTC Principal, Rev. Dr Kupakwashe Mtata, further reinforced the theological basis for gender equality, describing SDG 5 as aligned with the mission of Jesus Christ. He emphasised that the teachings of Jesus promote justice and equality, calling on believers to embody these values in their daily lives and leadership roles.
The workshop series, supported by Act Church of Sweden, is part of broader efforts to engage faith-based actors in preventing violence against women and girls (VAWG). Organisers noted that religious leaders and ministers-in-training possess significant influence in shaping community beliefs and practices. When guided effectively, they can promote values that prevent violence and support dignity; however, without critical reflection, they may also reinforce harmful norms.
Evidence from recent initiatives shows that faith-based approaches—such as sermons, prayers, and religious rituals—can be powerful tools for addressing social challenges. By engaging supportive religious leaders and challenging harmful practices, communities have begun to develop new frameworks that promote respect and equality.
Globally, faith-based actors are increasingly recognised as essential partners in achieving SDG 5 by 2030. Their ability to facilitate dialogue across community, local government, and national levels positions them as key drivers of change. International and regional bodies continue to collaborate with religious institutions to strengthen efforts aimed at ending violence against women and promoting gender equality.
Gender equality is the fifth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015 under the 2030 Agenda, which seeks to build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.
