A journey from theology to military chaplaincy

LESSONS LEARNT

- NADIA KHAN

HAVING pursued his passion for religion and to serve others, Dr Mathias Yuvan Shunmugam is now hoping to make a difference as a military chaplain for the SANDF.

Shunmugam, 28, of Pretoria, said as a young boy he was intrigued by archaeology, religion and human evolution.

“At first I wanted to be a police officer. However, as I became more involved in different political and social movements, it led me to wanting to study religion. I found myself interested in being able to make an active contribution to society.

“I was also involved in different sports and activities, and the military was something that intrigued and appealed to me. I liked the discipline, rigour, training and uniform; the overall idea of being a soldier. I also knew I would be able to make a meaningful contribution to society through religion and in the military.”

Shunmugam, formerly of Tongaat, said after completing matric, he pursued a Bachelor and Honours degrees in theology and religion at the University of Pretoria, and graduated in 2019.

In 2020, he graduated with his Master's degree in theology and religion, and thereafter with a PhD in science of religion in 2022. Last year, he graduated with a BA Honours degree in psychological counselling.