10 Challenges Third World Believers Face in Pursuing a Biblical Education
As a faculty member of a Bible college deeply committed to global education, I've witnessed firsthand the numerous challenges third-world believers face in their pursuit of biblical education. These challenges are not just academic or financial but are deeply rooted in their everyday realities. This blog will explore ten significant challenges our international learners encounter and how understanding them can shape our approach to supporting them.
Work, daily chores, and other responsibilities often take up so much of the day, resulting in very little time to pursue a biblical education.
1. Lack of Accessible Education Facilities
Many third-world communities do not have accessible institutions offering biblical education. This lack of access is the first and perhaps the most significant barrier, preventing eager learners from starting their educational journey.
2. Unstable Internet Connectivity
For those who can access online education, inconsistent and poor internet connectivity in remote areas makes it challenging to participate in online classes or access digital resources consistently.
3. Frequent Power Outages
Electricity is not a given in many parts of the developing world. Frequent power outages disrupt online learning and the ability to study after dark, severely limiting learning opportunities.
4. Physically Demanding Work
Many learners work physically demanding jobs to support their families. After a long day of labor, finding the energy and focus needed for academic study can be a daunting task.
5. Language Barriers
In regions where English is not the first language, comprehending and engaging with material in English adds an extra layer of difficulty for learners.
In November of 2019, students in El Salvador received on campus internet access! A group from the GOD Int’l Latin America team traveled to El Salvador to set up wifi for the entire campus. This has allowed for much easier access for all students on campus to enjoy their classes!
6. Limited Time Due to Daily Chores
Without modern conveniences like washing machines or piped water, daily chores consume a significant portion of the day, leaving little time for study.
7. Community Responsibilities
As leaders, many of our students are continuously called upon to address the needs of their communities, from providing support and guidance to emergency assistance, which can take precedence over their studies.
8. Insufficient Prior Education
A lack of foundational education can create insecurities and gaps in knowledge, making higher education more challenging and sometimes daunting.
9. Limited Technological Skills
The digital divide is real. Many students from developing regions lack basic computer literacy, making navigating online educational platforms and resources a significant hurdle.
10. Financial Constraints
Lastly, the financial burden of education, even online, can be prohibitive. Many students struggle to afford the essential tools required for learning, such as computers or textbooks.
Pictured above are students in the Philippines at a conference on Bible Interpretation. These day-long conferences gives students the opportunity to take some time out of their routine to develop their knowledge of the word and identity as followers of Jesus.
Understanding these challenges is crucial in developing effective strategies to support third-world believers in pursuing biblical education.
At The Institute for GOD, we are constantly adapting our methods and resources to meet these challenges, but our efforts alone are not enough.
Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of our learners. By contributing to our program, you're helping overcome these challenges and opening doors to opportunities, empowerment, and community transformation. As we aim to raise $115,000 to support our current and future students, every donation, big or small, brings us closer to making biblical education accessible to all.
Your generosity can turn these challenges into stepping stones for our learners, leading them to a future where "Nothing will be impossible."
