Chasefu University College traces its origins to the historic Chasefu Mission Station, established in 1913 by missionaries of the Livingstonia Mission of the Free Church of Scotland, operating under what later became the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP). From its inception, Chasefu Mission was envisioned as a center of Christian education, leadership formation, and community development in Eastern Zambia, particularly among the Tumbuka-speaking communities.

For several decades, the mission played a critical role in providing theological training, basic education, and social services. However, in 1952, the colonial government assumed control of the mission station, temporarily interrupting the Church’s long-term vision of establishing a higher education institution at Chasefu. This interruption lasted until November 2003, when the CCAP Synod of Zambia successfully regained ownership of the Chasefu Mission property, reopening the path toward institutional development.

In 2004, the CCAP Synod of Zambia formally approved the establishment of Chasefu Theological College at the historic mission site. The college officially commenced academic operations in 2007, initially offering a Certificate in Theology to address the growing need for trained pastors and church leaders within Zambia and the wider region. The first cohort of students graduated in 2010, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s academic journey.

Following steady growth and curriculum development, the institution introduced a Diploma in Theology, expanded student accommodation, and integrated community-oriented courses such as agriculture, community health evangelism, and leadership development. These innovations reflected Chasefu’s commitment to holistic education that combines faith, scholarship, and practical community engagement. By 2016, dozens of graduates had been trained for service in churches, schools, and community organizations across Zambia.

Building on this foundation, the institution evolved into Chasefu University College, broadening its academic scope beyond theology to include emerging disciplines such as Education, Agriculture, and Community Development, while maintaining its strong Christian ethos. Today, Chasefu University College stands as a faith-based higher education institution committed to academic rigor, spiritual formation, and national development, serving as a beacon of learning and leadership in Chasefu District, Eastern Province of Zambia.