معرفی
Prof. Dr. Hubertus (Bert) Roebben is a distinguished Professor of Religious Education at the Faculty of Catholic Theology, University of Bonn, where he has held a W3-Professorship since October 2017. He also serves as a Guest Professor of Practical Theology at ETF Leuven (2024-present) and has been an Extraordinary Professor at Stellenbosch University in South Africa (2019-2022 and 2022-2024). Previously, he held professorships at TU Dortmund University (2007-2017), Tilburg University (1998-2007), and KU Leuven (1995-2000).
His academic journey began with studies in Theology, Educational Sciences, and Canon Law at KU Leuven, where he earned his Doctorate in Theology (STD) in 1994. His educational background includes certificates in Academic Teaching (KU Leuven, 1997) and Academic Leadership (Tilburg University, 2002).
Roebben's research focuses on Religious Education, Moral Education, Practical Theology, and the intersection of Systematic Theology with Education. He explores how religious learning processes occur not only in traditional settings but also in public spaces, examining how theological content is both received and generated in contemporary society. His work emphasizes European and global contexts, with particular attention to religious diversity, spirituality, and educational challenges in pluralistic societies.
His extensive publication record demonstrates significant contributions to the field of religious education across multiple languages. His recent work shows increasing engagement with contemporary challenges such as vulnerability, compassion, pilgrimage, and navigating religious diversity in educational settings. His research often bridges theoretical theological frameworks with practical educational applications.
Among his professional activities, Roebben has served as Vice-Dean for Research and Head of the theological library at the University of Bonn (2020-2023), and previously as Vice-Director and Director of the Institute of Catholic Theology at TU Dortmund. He has held leadership positions in several international organizations including the Religious Education Association (serving as President in 2017) and the European Forum for Teachers of Religious Education (Chair 2023-2025).
Roebben has supervised numerous doctoral and habilitation projects, with current students working on topics ranging from icon didactics and spiritual abuse to religious ritual in schools and professional habitus formation. His editorial work includes serving on the boards of multiple international journals including Religious Education, Journal of Youth and Theology, and the Greek Journal of Religious Education.
