​As the world observed World Social Work Day, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD), in the Northern Corridor, hosted a special event on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, to honour the achievements of Social Workers and highlight their critical role in shaping just and inclusive societies.

The gathering at Bundu Inn Resort, Tshwane, underscored the importance of social justice, human rights, and the future of social services under the theme: “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing.”

Celebrated annually in March, World Social Work Day is a significant occasion in the profession’s calendar, bringing global recognition to the contributions of Social Workers in improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Since its inception in 2007, with the theme “Social Work, Making a World of Difference”, the event has grown into a vital platform for advocating and promoting the field.

Addressing an audience of Social Workers, Social Auxiliary Workers, Managers, and Heads of Institutions, Dr. Emmison Muleya, a former Social Work Supervisor and now Lecturer at Wits University, reflected on the evolving challenges in social work. He pointed out that the profession is grappling with limited resources, funding shortages, and new societal trends such as black tax and the call for decolonized education and training in social services.

“Promoting intergenerational solidarity requires a three-pronged approach: learning (theory), policy development, and direct practice,” Dr. Muleya emphasized.

Adding to the discussion, Vivian Bajomo, GDSD Director for Institutions, highlighted the alarming increase in social ills, warning that state dependency is on the rise. “The old proverb that ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ is no longer widely practiced, and this is affecting children’s development,” she remarked.

A compelling testimony came from Thabiso Magubane (19), a former resident of Walter Sisulu Child and Youth Care Centre, who was rehabilitated through the Child Justice Act’s diversion program after being confined for a schedule three offence. “Because I was willing to learn, Social Workers at the centre went the extra mile for me. Today, I have no criminal record and I’m studying at Albertina Sisulu Centre, specializing in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” he shared.

The event served as a reminder of the transformative role Social Workers play in rebuilding lives and fostering stronger, more resilient communities.