Seminar Description:
This seminar explores the critical role social workers play in community development, emphasizing both practical and theoretical aspects of the profession. Social work is a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change, social cohesion, and the empowerment of individuals and communities.
The seminar will focus on how social workers serve as catalysts for positive change by organizing communities, developing and implementing programs, building local capacity, influencing policy, and providing psychological and social support. Participants will examine key roles of social workers—including advocate, counselor, researcher, community mobilizer, and program manager—and gain insight into the tools and strategies used in various community settings.
Held in honor of World Social Work Day, this seminar celebrates the contribution of social workers to global and local development, encouraging continued dedication to social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
Seminar Objectives:
Understand the professional and ethical responsibilities of social workers in community development.
Learn key roles and practical strategies used in community organizing and intervention.
Explore real-life examples of community development projects led by social workers.
Celebrate and reflect on the impact of social work during Social Work Month and World Social Work Day.
Seminar Modules & Time Allocation:
| Module | Title | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Module 1 | Introduction to Social Work and Community Development – Historical background – Mission and ethics of social work – Jane Addams and the evolution of the profession | 30 minutes |
| Module 2 | Core Roles of Social Workers in Community Development – Advocate, Counselor, Mediator, Educator, Case Manager, Community Mobilizer | 45 minutes |
| Module 3 | Key Functions and Strategies – Community needs assessment – Project planning and management – Capacity building and program implementation | 45 minutes |
| Break | Coffee/Networking Break | 15 minutes |
| Module 4 | Policy Engagement and Conflict Resolution – Working with policymakers – Promoting equity and justice – Resolving community conflicts | 30 minutes |
| Module 5 | Practical Case Studies and Group Discussions – Examples of community projects – Group role-play and problem-solving | 45 minutes |
| Module 6 | Celebrating World Social Work Day – The importance of the day – Testimonials from practitioners – Open discussion and Q&A | 30 minutes |
| Closing | Summary, Certification & Group Photo | 15 minutes |
