INTEGRATING CHRISTIAN MORAL THEOLOGY INTO UNIVERSITY GOVERNANCE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF BABCOCK AND BINGHAM UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of Christian moral theology into the governance of Babcock and Bingham Universities, focusing on how theological principles influence ethical behavior, conflict resolution, and institutional administration. The research aims to identify factors responsible for ethical lapses, sources of moral conflict, and strategies for promoting Christian values within university governance. Using a qualitative research design, data were gathered from 370 respondents comprising students, lecturers, and non-academic staff through structured questionnaires. The findings reveal that inadequate adherence to Biblical standards (59%) and economic challenges (55%) are the leading causes of ethical lapses and internal conflicts. Instances of cheating and other unethical practices (65%) demonstrate moderate non-compliance with Christian moral principles in institutional governance. However, a significant majority of respondents (96.8%) strongly agreed that full compliance with Biblical standards could substantially reduce ethical failures and improve the moral climate of the universities. The study further emphasizes that effective governance in Christian universities depends not only on policies but also on the personal integrity and moral modeling of administrators and faculty members. It concludes that aligning decision-making processes, administrative practices, and interpersonal relationships with the tenets of Christian moral theology is essential for maintaining ethical sustainability. Consequently, consistent moral instruction, faith-based mentoring, and transparent leadership are recommended as key strategies for reinforcing Christian ethics and ensuring that the governance of faith-based universities reflects their foundational religious values.