History

Foundation and Affiliation

Don Bosco Utume - Salesian Theological College was established in 1986 with the goal of preparing Salesian priests modeled on Christ, emphasizing intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral formation. The first group of young Salesians pursued their theological studies at Tangaza College. By 1988, the community adopted the name "Don Bosco Utume," with "Utume" symbolizing mission and ministry. That same year, the community relocated to a new residence on Dagoretti Road to accommodate the growing number of students. As the community expanded, land was acquired in Karen in 1998 to build a larger facility for the Salesian Theologate. Construction was completed in 2000, and in the Academic Year 2000-2001, the community moved to its new residence on Lang’ata Road, just 4.5 kilometers from Tangaza College. This move provided ample space and enhanced the community's ability to carry out its formation activities effectively. In 2010, after years of consultation and preparation, Don Bosco Utume officially became a Salesian Study Centre for Theology. It opened on August 17, with the first group of 16 Salesian students and one Cottolengo student beginning their studies. Over the next few years, the college developed a curriculum tailored to the African context and Salesian needs. In 2014, the college achieved a significant milestone when it was affiliated with the Faculty of Theology of the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome, securing academic and juridical stability. This affiliation was initially granted for five years. By 2019, the college had completed its first term of affiliation, which was subsequently renewed for another five years in 2020. Since its official opening and affiliation, Don Bosco Utume has experienced remarkable growth, both in student enrollment and academic staff. The holistic formation provided by the college has been widely appreciated by the local Church, the Salesian provinces across Africa and Madagascar, and various religious congregations that send their students to study at the institution.