Social Work Profession reminds us that every human being has inherent worth and dignity, and that it is our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive
Published Date – 17 March 2025, 08:03 PM
By Professor Sanjai Bhatt, Dr Shailsh
World Social Work Day will be celebrated on March 18. This year, the day focuses on strengthening intergenerational solidarity for enduring well-being by emphasising the importance of cross-generational care and respect to build powerful societies, protect the environment, and share wisdom for a better tomorrow. It emphasises the social work profession’s commitment to building bridges between generations, valuing the wisdom of elders while empowering youth to address contemporary challenges and shape a better future.
Also, the Social Work Profession reminds us that every human being has inherent worth and dignity, and that it is our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. So on this World Social Work Day, let us celebrate the power and purpose of social work in building a more just and fair society.
Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges
One can trace the history of Social Work in the West. Modern social work’s foundation was laid by charity movements in the US and UK. Jane Addams and other pioneers of the settlement movement highlighted community-based social work and advocacy. Universities such as Columbia (1910) and Chicago (1914) pioneered social work courses, starting formal social work education.
Following the trend, the growth and expansion happened in different countries. In India, the first School of Social Work came into existence with the establishment of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in 1936. Social work has expanded to include specialised areas such as clinical social work, community organising and policy work. Prioritising evidence-based practice has spurred more research and evaluation within social work. Now, it increasingly values teamwork in other fields to solve complex social problems.
In India, the success of Gurgaon project (1920), Shriniketan project (1920), Seva-gram (1920), Marthandam project (1928), Baroda village reconstruction project (1932), Grow more food campaign (1942), Indian village service (IVS-1945), Firka vikas yojana (1946), and Etawah project (1948) paved the development of Institutes of Social Work in India.
Today’s global environment faces challenges from climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, and air, water and soil pollution. Furthermore, deforestation, water scarcity and land degradation pose problems locally. These changes necessitate a holistic approach at both the local and global levels. So, there is a need to develop a networking and liaisoning strategy with other professions.
Passion and Purpose
Social work is a profession that requires a unique blend of passion and purpose, and those who choose this path are driven by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Social workers are the bridge between individuals, families and communities, and the social systems and institutions that shape their lives.
It has been seen that professional social workers played a significant role in facilitating services and building awareness during the second wave of Covid-19. They work in hospitals, schools, non-profit organisations and government agencies, providing critical support services, advocating for social justice and promoting human rights. So, World Social Work Day calls for professionals to take a step toward maintaining a balance between community and environment.
Social work has the power to empower marginalised communities by amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights and interests
Social work is not just a job; it’s a calling. It requires a deep understanding of the complex interplay of factors that contribute to social problems, as well as the skills and knowledge to develop effective solutions. Social workers must be able to navigate complex systems, build relationships with diverse stakeholders and advocate for policies and programmes that promote social justice.
Despite the challenges they face, social workers remain committed to their work because they are driven by a sense of purpose. They believe that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that every community deserves to have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. On this World Social Work Day, let us celebrate the passion and purpose of social workers in building a more just and equitable society.
Transforming Lives
Social work significantly influences individuals, families and communities globally. It is characterised by a profound dedication to social justice, human rights and empowering marginalised groups. Social workers dedicate themselves to offering vital support, fighting for better policies and building stronger communities. In this way, social workers are vital to social change. However, social work involves more than just service provision.
Social work helps in community organisation and has the power to empower marginalised communities by amplifying the voices of marginalised populations and advocating for their rights and interests. Social workers pinpoint and fight against systemic obstacles that fuel inequality and social injustice. They also give vital support services, assisting individuals and families in managing adversity and fostering resilience.
By doing so, social workers challenge the system of oppression and foster resilience and hope among individuals, groups and families. It means social workers strive for a fairer society by supporting policy changes and fostering community development. Social work is not merely a profession. It has the power to transform lives. It’s time to utilise the dedication, skill and compassion of social work to strengthen intergenerational solidarity for enduring well-being.
(Professor Sanjai Bhatt retired from Department of Social Work, University of Delhi. He is president, National Association of Professional Social Workers in India. Dr Shailesh is Assistant Professor, Amity University Haryana)
