WSCF in Action

This page gives an overview of the activities and programmes of the World Student Christian Federation.

For over one hundred years WSCF has been involved in the cutting edge of theology, politics and student life. WSCF member movements challenge students to make their faith real in study, prayer and action. Involvement in Student Christian Movements and WSCF offers students dialogue and connection with peers from every walk of life. Through this students are exposed to challenging ideas from different churches, religions, social, political and academic spheres.

Study of the Bible and theology and their relevance to life is a constant focus for WSCF. WSCF encourages students in social and political analysis, which becomes part of their understanding of how to make informed Christian choices of how to live and act in the world.

At different times in history SCMers have lived out their faith as revolutionaries, evangelists, pacifists, educators, activists, missionaries and visionaries. Thousands of students have had life-changing experiences through SCM which have led them to lives of great service in many different fields. Many move on from SCM or WSCF with a broader and deeper understanding of Christian faith and service than they ever had before.

The World Student Christian Federation today continues its long tradition as a training ground for ecumenical leadership. SCMs operate as student faith communities that complement and enliven the churches whose student members are involved. Many WSCF members also go on to become leaders in secular fields, acting as facilitators of social, political and ideological change in grass roots people's movements, governments and in their communities at large.

As student leaders in SCM, young people engage with theology in theory but also in action. As well as living out their faith through evangelism, political action and through their education, student leaders in the SCM must grapple with the practical challenges of living as the body of Christ. As they grow in understanding of faith and politics, they must also develop skills in community building, pastoral care, programme organisation and liturgy. SCMs in many places carry out training in sustainable development.

WSCF actively encourages and supports the leadership of women through gender balance in decision making and in its programmes and leadership structures. Women's leadership training and gender analysis are constant priorities for WSCF.

Many WSCF member movements believe it is their Gospel calling to support and empower marginalised groups in society. SCMs in different places initiate inter-faith dialogue, work with people living with AIDS, support indigenous people in their struggle for self-determination, advocate for trade justice and work to build up the body of Christ wherever it is suffering.

To find out more about the specific programmes of WSCF at the global level, please go to WSCF Global Activities.

For an overview of recent WSCF activities at both regional and inter-regional levels, please go to WSCF Annual Activity Lists.

For more information on recent WSCF activities at regional, national and local levels, please go to WSCF Regions and the Ecumenical Assistance Programme.