Social Work Students Mark Day with Inspiring Engagement and Dialogue
The annual Social Work Day Celebration was marked with remarkable enthusiasm as hundreds of students gathered to honour the profession and reflect on the vital role social workers play in society.
Speaking at the event on the 13th of March 2026 at University of Botswana (UB) Auditorium, Faculty of Social Science Head of the Department of Social Work (HOD), Professor Odireleng Shehu, said Social workers play a pivotal role in guiding communities and fostering unity within divided families and societies.
Professor Shehu further highlighted that the profession was essential in promoting justice, strengthening social harmony and ensuring that individuals and communities functioned effectively at the highest level. Furthermore, she noted that the profession offered invaluable contributions to society and was characterised by its diverse responsibilities and multifaceted nature.
She encouraged the students to embrace their potential as future agents of positive change. Professor Shehu emphasised the importance of using their skills and compassion to make meaningful contributions in helping to resolve conflict, restore peace and build bridges across divisions.
“By doing so, student will not only support the healing of fractured communities but also contribute to a more united and peaceful world,” said Professor Shehu.
Meanwhile, Botswana Red Cross, Gaborone Branch and Youth Development Coordinator, Mr David David, shared insight on the organisation’s collaborative work with social workers in crisis response, community health initiatives and youth empowerment projects. The presentation not only broadened students’ understanding of humanitarian service but also reinforced the importance of partnerships in delivering meaningful social impact.
The celebration also featured a students’ panel discussion where aspiring social workers spoke passionately about their motivations for choosing the profession. Many expressed that their calling stemmed from personal experiences, compassion for vulnerable populations and a desire to contribute to national and global well‑being.