History

Founded in 2003 by Zambians for Zambians

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The Amazing Story of Northrise

From God's initial vision revealed to the Zimbas in 1988 through the present day, the ever-unfolding story of Northrise University is one of faith, hope, and tireless dedication to creating a thriving, diverse, and dynamic community unified as a Body of Christ. And more, this vision goes far beyond the four corners of our Campus. Through God's faithfulness, Northrise graduates have gone from classroom to mission field making a significant impact in their families and communities, the nation of Zambia, and the world. God is still writing the next chapter of Northrise's amazing story.  

 

The Timeline

  • 1988
    God calls the Zimbas to bring transformation into the lives of Zambian students, who could then help improve the lives of others, together bringing change to their nation.

    A Vision Emerges

    Dr. Moffat and Doreen Zimba, the founders of Northrise University, were both born in Zambia, suffering from a lack of meaningful educational opportunities. But they heard and answered God’s call to attend Bible college in Australia, they then went on to graduate school in the United States, where Dr. Zimba obtained a doctorate at Fuller Theological Seminary, and Mrs. Zimba received her MBA in Technology from the University of Phoenix. In 1988, amid their academic pursuits, the Zimbas began to receive a vision of how they could be instrumental in God’s work of bringing transformation into the lives of Zambian students, who could then help improve the lives of others, together bringing change to their nation. This vision would become Northrise University.

  • 2004
    After 16 years of tireless work, and with collaboration between Zambia, Australia, and the United States, Northrise was born.  Initial enrollment was 50 students in downtown Ndola.  Northrise was the first nationally recognized private university in Zambia.

    A Vision Is Realized

    In January 2004, with the faithful collaborative effort of folks from Zambia, Australia, and the United States, the necessary degree of intellectual capital and financial resources came together to launch Northrise, the first nationally recognized private university in Zambia. The University began with fifty students in downtown Ndola. Shortly thereafter, the government granted it land for its new 640-acre site, which would become its main campus. Northrise quickly became a good neighbor to its surrounding community, using its modern medical facility (NUCare) to provide medical care to hundreds who would otherwise have no access.

  • Today
    With over 1000 students currently enrolled and over 500 alumni, and in conjunction with its deep Christian worldview, full accreditation, and eleven degree programs, Northrise students are transforming their communities and nation.

    A Vision Blossoms

    Today, there are over 1,000 students enrolled at Northrise, taking advantage of its deep Christian worldview, full accreditation, and eleven degree programs in business, IT, law, nursing, and theology. Of its 500 alumni, 99% have remained in Zambia taking up positions of leadership in business, government, and ministry. Having achieved what is among the highest academic requirements in Zambia and equipped with strong character and love for their fellow Zambians, these graduates go on to lead fulfilling careers and help to transform their communities and nation.

  • The Future
    With demand on the rise, the Advancing the Vision Capital Plan has emerged to include significant campus expansion and improvement that will accommodate ten years of future expansion. We invite you to partner with us in this exciting journey!

    A Vision Expands

    With demand for world-class, Christ-centered higher education continuing to increase, the Northrise Advancing the Vision Capital Plan has emerged to include the construction of the Campus Center administration building, two student dormitories, two classroom buildings with computer labs, a faculty duplex, and the Alumni Guest House. Further plans include the construction of three new dormitories, three more faculty duplexes, a security, and maintenance building, a dedicated student center (hub), and a convocation hall. Altogether, these plans are intended to accommodate ten years of future expansion.

Northrise University Research

A Vision Flourishes

All the growth of the student population, faculty, and facilities exist for the purpose of serving the initial vision of the Zimbas: to transform lives through a Christ-centered education so students can help improve the lives of others, and collectively change a nation. It is the hope that Zambia and other parts of Africa will be released from the gripping effects of poverty by means of change occurring from the inside out. With leaders equipped by a solid education and Christ-centered character, transformation can be realized in Zambia and beyond. With this vision as its heartbeat, Northrise seeks to continue inspiring its students, staff, faculty, friends, and others to realize the Lord’s miracles around the world and to see that through Him, anything is possible.

Get Started with NU

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