… Announce plans to reposition social Work Profession in the country
Paschal Emeka, Abuja
The National President of Institute of Chartered Work Practitioners of Nigeria, Prof. Oluwayemisi Obashoro John has highlighted the importance of Social Work in the society
Briefing the media on the establishment of an Act for the Regulation and Control of Social Work Profession in Nigeria at the House of Representatives Press Centre, Abuja, Prof. Obashoro noted explained that social work promotes human rights, social justice, peace and conflict resolutions.
He further noted that social work engenders social change, problem solving, and sustainable development in human relationship focusing on the empowerment and liberation of people and enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, groups and communities.
Prof Obashoro disclosed that social work is the fastest growing profession in the world and Africa.
“Permit me to say here that it is emerging profession in Nigeria. It is recognized as the sole catalyst for improved social well-being in advanced countries.
“A closer and professional look at the general society shows that the difference between the advanced world and developing world lies mainly in the level of social work practiced. Hence, the importance of this great profession in Nigeria.
The National President listed the role of social workers in the society to include: Identify people and communities in need of help; access clients’ needs, situations, strengths and support networks to determine their goals.
Others are: To help clients adjust to changes and challenges in their lives, such as illness, divorce or unemployment. Research into, refer and advocate for community resources such as food stamps, child care and health care to assist and improve clients’ well-being, among others.
The National President used the occasion to announce plans to reposition the institute for greater impact.
“For over a decade of existence, in Nigeria, the Chartered Institute of Social Work
Practitioners of Nigeria formerly known as Institute of Social Work of Nigeria is set to reposition the profession taking into account the heroes past in ensuring the practice gains her pride of place in Nigeria and more importantly among disciplines of interest in contemporary times.
“The Institute is therefore mandated by law to carry out the following functions. Determine the standards of knowledge and skills to be attained by persons seeking to become members and raise the standards as circumstances may permit
“Secure in accordance of the Act, the establishment and maintenance of register of members; build professional capacities and provide professional guidance to members to enhance service delivery in the chosen areas of the Institute’s professional practice; create and advance consciousness in the professional practice of social Work among others.
Captio: Prof. Oluwayemisi Obashoro John