Pondicherry University to launch M. Phil course in Asian Christian Studies

Pondicherry – The Pondicherry University has permitted a Chair in Asian Christian Studies to start a Master of Philosophy (M. Phil) course in the academic year 2005–2006.

According to Fr. P.A. Sampathkumar, the first coordinator of the Chair, an endowment Chair, created by the Archdiocese of Pondicherry and Cuddalore in 2004, was named after Fr. Pierre Escande, an eminent educationist who pioneered in bringing education to common people in and around Pondicherry. Fr. Escande served as the head of Petit Seminaire High School Pondicerry from 1900 to 1933.

The Chair, as part of the Department of Philosophy of the university, offers M. Phil programme in Asian Christian Studies. The programme includes course work and preparation of dissertation. Students can write dissertation either in English or French.

The objectives of the Chair include providing facilities for study and research in Christianity, its origin, development and impact in Asia, undertaking study of Christian Scriptures in the social and cultural context of Asia and promoting comparative studies of Christianity and other religious and philosophical currents in Asia.

According to news reports, doctoral programme in Asian Christian Studies is scheduled for the academic year 2006–2007. The Pondicherry University recognizes master’s degree in Theology (M.Th.) done at pontifical institutes either in India or abroad.