Specialized Theological Studies 
Project NAWA KATAMARAN at the Faculty of Theology of UKSW
The Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw has obtained funding from the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) under the “KATAMARAN – Creation and implementation of international study programs” scheme – 2025 call – for the project titled “Development of a joint second-cycle program: Rwandan–Polish joint studies in theology of the Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw and the Catholic University of Rwanda,” no. BPI/KAT/2025/1/00008.
The project will be carried out in cooperation with the Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR) and provides for the preparation of a joint second-cycle (Master’s) degree program in theology, delivered in an international format, with the possibility of awarding a joint or double diploma.
NAWA has awarded UKSW funding in the amount of PLN 776,776.50 for the project.
Project objectives
The KATAMARAN project aims to create a lasting model of academic cooperation between Poland and Rwanda in the field of theological sciences. At the heart of the initiative is the development of a modern, international second-cycle study program that responds to contemporary challenges in theological education, intercultural dialogue, and global social and religious transformations.
The project aligns with UKSW’s internationalization strategy and the development of the Faculty of Theology’s English-language educational offering. The joint program will combine European and African academic experience, creating a space for intercultural cooperation, joint research, and mobility of students and academic staff.
The final outcome of the project will be a ready-to-launch joint second-cycle study program with full documentation, a teaching pilot, a digital library, joint quality frameworks, and prepared academic staff.
Faculty of Theology at UKSW
The Faculty of Theology at UKSW has many years of experience in implementing international programs, including an English-language study program. The Faculty conducts scientific research, organizes international conferences and seminars, and develops cooperation with foreign partners.
The KATAMARAN project represents the next stage in the internationalization of the Faculty of Theology at UKSW and in building lasting academic relations between Europe and Africa.
Project partner
The project partner is the Catholic University of Rwanda — a Catholic higher education institution based in Butare (Huye), Rwanda, conducting teaching and research activities, among others, in the fields of theology, social sciences, education, and the humanities.
The project has been divided into five complementary tasks to be implemented in 2026–2027.
Project structure
Task 1. Laboratory of Contextual Theology
The first task constitutes the methodological foundation of the entire project. Its aim is to develop a shared methodology for working on the study program, taking into account cultural, social, and religious differences between Poland and Rwanda.
The task will produce:
- a map of Polish–Rwandan contexts,
- case studies,
- a methodological guide in Polish and English,,
- “Context Matters” seminars dedicated to contextual theology.
Task 2. Development of a joint second-cycle study program
The second task involves preparing complete documentation for the joint Master’s degree program.
The program will:
- comprise 120 ECTS credits,
- last four semesters,
- be taught in English,
- conclude with the award of a joint or double diploma.
The following will be developed:
- learning outcomes,
- a study plan,
- syllabi,
- accreditation documentation,
- rules for student mobility and recognition of achievements.
Task 3. Program pilot, digital library, and Dialogue Forum
The project’s largest task includes the test implementation of selected teaching modules and the development of digital infrastructure.
Within this task, the following will be carried out:
- pilot teaching modules,
- program evaluation,
- the “Theology without Borders” digital platform,
- a library containing at least 100 digital resources,
- the Poland–Africa Dialogue Forum,
- publications and promotional-educational materials.
Task 4. Joint Quality Frameworks
The fourth component of the project is devoted to developing joint quality standards for the program implemented by UKSW and CUR.
The following will be prepared:
- quality procedures,
- evaluation tools,
- a system for class observations,
- quality reports,
- mechanisms for harmonizing the academic standards of both universities.
Task 5. Academy of Mobile Teaching
The final task focuses on preparing academic staff to conduct classes in an international and intercultural environment.
The project includes:
- teaching training,
- workshops for lecturers,
- development of intercultural competences,
- preparation of implementation recommendations for mobile teaching.
Funding information
The project is financed by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange under the KATAMARAN program – creation and implementation of international study programs and co-financed by the European Union.
Project implementation period
The project will be implemented in 2026–2027.