Zalvidar Acodesin’s journey to a PhD in Theology at North-West University begins with his upbringing in the Philippines. When raised in a Southeast Asian nation where almost 80% of the population is Roman Catholic, it’s easy to feel like the traditions you’d grown up with are the same with the whole world – but Acodesin realised that wasn’t true.
“I longed to step beyond the familiar theological frameworks I had grown accustomed to and engage with a broader, more rigorous tradition of the Reformation,” he says. “[It was] a desire ‘to step out of my comfort zone,’ not only geographically but also intellectually and spiritually.”
With this goal in mind, Acodesin took a huge leap. In 2016, he moved from the Philippines to Potchefstroom in South Africa, over a day’s worth of flight away. He arrived at NWU’s campus fresh and eager to earn his Master of Theology in Dogmatics.
After completing the programme in 2018, he wasn’t ready to conclude his NWU journey yet.
South Africa brims with potential
In a world that ebbs and flows lightning-quick, South Africa stands out for its steady economic growth. It’s the largest economy on the continent, with agriculture, finance, and trade leading the way. Business potential is booming, with fast-growing industries like software development, renewable energy, tourism and hospitality, and more. The youths are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, a trait which the world is now learning to harness.
At the centre of it all, NWU is a global university that welcomes students from 60 countries to experience a world-class education that transcends borders. It’s ranked amongst the top 4.1% of universities worldwide, home to over 300 National Research Foundation-rated researchers who innovate and impact across five centres of excellence.
NWU graduates are a force to be reckoned with, graduating in work-ready form to make a global impact. Just recently, its accounting students achieved a 95% pass rate in the January 2025 Initial Assessment of Competence (IAC) examinations, surpassing the national average.
A month before Acodesin’s master’s graduation in 2018. Source: North-West University
The school has three campuses and eight faculties – even reaching students beyond South Africa through its distance learning option. The best part? This high-quality education is available to you at an affordable price, on top of the country’s low cost of living.
“Essentials such as accommodation, food, and study materials are reasonably priced, which allows students like me to focus more on academic and spiritual formation rather than financial strain,” Acodesin says. With no financial burden, Acodesin got the opportunity to continue his PhD in Theology after completing his master’s degree.
Your career-focused education
Learning at NWU takes a practical, career-focused approach to prep students for real-world rigour. The faculty members serve as unwavering pillars of support, imparting their expertise and guiding students through personalised mentorship. For Acodesin, it was through Professor Callie Coetzee’s supervision that he was able to produce and publish a quality article through AOSIS Publishing and present his work in Sydney, Australia.
“What set Professor Coetzee apart was his ability to introduce me to the rich theological heritage of the Reformation while showing deep respect for my background,” he says. “His thoughtful engagement helped me make a meaningful transition in my theological pilgrimage and deepened my academic voice.”
Throughout his journey at NWU, Acodesin took part in many experiential learning opportunities – thanks to the university’s powerhouse industry partnerships. Last month, the NWU Centre for Business Mathematics and Informatics engaged three industry giants – Absa Group, SAS: Data and AI Solutions, and FirstRand – to prepare honours and master’s students for corporate success.
NWU has an 83.78% success rate for contact students in 2023. Source: North-West University
Acodesin got involved with the Reformed Church on NWU’s campus. He received hands-on ministerial training and found himself surrounded by a diverse community as he attended bible studies, worship services, and Christian fellowship. “This exposure to a global Christian community has expanded my pastoral perspective, enriched my intercultural sensitivity, and refined my approach to theological reflection and ministry,” he says.
Another form of experiential learning comes through NWU’s industry-aligned workshops, hosted regularly for students. For example, the School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management held a Work Readiness Workshop where industry experts shared their input on graduate employability, industry expectations, and effective preparation. They guided students on the basics like CV writing and interview prep, and provided insight into current job market trends, allowing students to ask questions.
What’s next for Acodesin?
After graduation, Acodesin is ready to return to the Philippines.
“I am particularly passionate about helping strengthen doctrinal teaching, pastoral training, and theological education in contexts that are often under-resourced,” he says. Having completed his master’s and PhD at NWU, he finds himself walking the stage with the critical skills to tackle this mission with confidence. Acodesin will become one of 300,000 alumni across the world leaving their mark as the leaders of today and tomorrow.
“Be bold enough to step out of your comfort zone,” Acodesin would tell future NWU students. “Studying abroad is not merely about earning a degree. It’s about undergoing a profound transformation in how you think, believe, and serve.”
Check out North-West University today for a transformative education in South Africa.
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