This month marks a momentous occasion for one of the region's most enduring theological institutions, Malua Theological College (M.T.C.), as it celebrates 180 years since its founding. 

As the theological college associated with the largest denomination in Samoa, the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.), M.T.C. commemorates this significant milestone with gratitude and humility.

Principal of the College, Reverend Professor Vaitusi Nofoaiga expressed pride in the institution's history, viewing this anniversary as a chance to reflect on the college's accomplishments and the enduring legacy of its founders. 

Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga emphasised that the primary goal of M.T.C. has always been to educate ministers for congregations across Samoa and the wider Pacific region. 

He recounted how discussions about establishing a learning institution began following the establishment of the first-ever printing press in Samoa, in 1839, shortly after the arrival of Christianity in Samoa. 

This led to the college's establishment in 1844 by Rev. George Turner and Rev. Charles Hardie from the London Missionary Society.

The college's guiding vision, "For Jesus and His Church," remains a cornerstone of its mission today, embodying its unwavering commitment to spiritual and educational development. 

Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga paid tribute to the local elders who donated land for the college in Saleimoa, affirming the community's vital role in its history. 

In September of 1844, the college welcomed its first cohort of twenty-five male students, a diverse group aged twelve to twenty-four. By 1846, the program expanded to include married students and their wives, marking a significant development in the college’s educational offerings.

Within a decade of its founding, M.T.C. began admitting students from other Pacific islands, including Vanuatu and New Caledonia, underscoring its regional significance. 

It is noted that within just twenty-five years, over 1,143 graduates had gone forth to serve in various mission fields, highlighting the college's successful fulfilment of its original mission.

Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga also shared insights into the college's lesser-known history, mentioning that Rev. Turner’s son returned from his medical studies abroad to teach medicine at Malua around 1969. 

Although this program was short-lived, it illustrated the college's innovative spirit. Additionally, he pointed out the establishment of an infant school system by early missionaries, which laid the groundwork for the government’s educational framework that continues to this day.

"The curriculum which was used by missionaries to start Aoga Faifeau, which was set up to teach young children how to read and write, and initiative led by ministers of the church. This curriculum was later adopted by the Samoan government to establish Aoga Tulaga Lua (Primary Schools) which continues to exist today." 

The term Aoga Tulaga Lua translated to "Secondary", reflects that early education for children was provided through Aoga Faifeau (pastor's schools) which, according to Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga was referred to as Aoga Muamua. 

As they celebrate 180 years, Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga sees this milestone as an opportunity to reflect on past achievements while inspiring future growth. He emphasized the importance of history as a bridge connecting the past, present, and future. 

Another notable accomplishment over the years has been the numerous missionaries trained at M.T.C. who have spread the Gospel not only in the region but also globally, including in places as distant as Jamaica and Great Britain. 

"We are carrying that legacy forward," he remarked, highlighting the continuity of vision from the college's founders.

Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga also reflected on how the church's independence in 1962, after the college hosted a regional meeting which led to the formation of the Pacific Conference of Churches (P.C.C.) in 1961, paralleled Samoa’s journey toward sovereignty in 1962. 

The Pacific Theological College (P.T.C.) was opened in Fiji in 1966 following the meeting in 1961 and they have had a close relationship with M.T.C. since then. 

Under the guidance of God, Rev. Prof. Nofoaiga believes that the college continues to thrive in fulfilling its mission. 

Today, M.T.C. offers a range of academic programs, including Diploma of Theology, Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Divinity with Honors, and Master of Theology, with students typically completing four years of study.