McCormick Connections, Global Impact
FEBRUARY 10, 2025
In August 2024, Rev. Dr. See Young Lee proudly stepped into the role of second President of Lubumbashi Protestant University. His appointment marks a significant moment, as he not only steps into the presidency but also follows in the footsteps of another McCormick graduate, Rev. Dr. Kwang Soo Lee, the university’s founder. Rev. Dr. See Young completed his Doctor of Ministry at McCormick Theological Seminary twenty-two years after Rev. Kwang Soo.
Located in the vibrant city of Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lubumbashi Protestant University, or Université Protestante de Lubumbashi as it’s fondly referred to by its 8,000 students, is a beacon of opportunity. Founded in 2002 by Rev. Dr. Kwang Soo, this private university was established with a clear vision: to broaden students’ horizons and offer them a world-class education across diverse vocations. Rev. Dr. Kwang Soo, a Korean theologian passionate about global development and transformation, believed that beyond theological studies, students could have a profound impact on their communities through excellence in sustainable careers. The university proudly offers eight core programs, including Theology, Computer Science, Architecture, Engineering, Law, Economics, Human Sciences, and Polytechnics. Over the past 23 years, it has flourished into a competitive and respected institution.
As Rev. Dr. See Young Lee embraces this pivotal leadership role, he is stepping into an organization that has blossomed into the second-largest university in the southern province of Katanga, shining brightly in the landscape of higher education in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The university’s modern, expanding facilities symbolize a deep commitment to inclusive education, a mission that Rev. Dr. See Young is excited to advance. “I truly believe that the DRC is the heart of Africa,” he shares enthusiastically. “Therefore, it must resonate with energy and action.”
The students at Lubumbashi Protestant University are making remarkable strides in their studies, each area of focus buzzing with enthusiasm. Alumni are making their mark globally, gaining recognition as they enter the workforce, with many engaging actively in Non-Governmental Organizations, creating inspiring opportunities for meaningful impact that extends well beyond graduation. Rev. Dr. See Young acknowledges the work that lies ahead, stating, “Though we’ve come a long way, there is still much to achieve. To ignite this transformation, nurturing competent leaders is vital. The University has a crucial role in delivering an outstanding education to our students.”
At MTS, the merging of theological education with practical impact is a key component, providing graduates like Rev. Dr. See Young Lee with invaluable insights into how to actively engage and uplift their communities. The future is bright, and with continued dedication and collaboration, there's no limit to the incredible changes that can be achieved together!
