UB Social Work Society Inspires First Year Students to Turn Passion into Practice
The University of Botswana Social Work Society (UBSWS) officially welcomed first year students into the Social Work programme during an induction ceremony held recently at the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) Hall. The purpose of the event was to introduce new students to the values, goals and professional expectations of the social work discipline while fostering a sense of belonging within the UB Social Work community.
Speaking at the event, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Work, Dr Kgosietsile Maripe, underscored the importance of the society in bridging academic learning with community engagement. He explained that UBSWS was established to provide students with a platform for professional growth through academic, leadership and volunteer initiatives. “Over the years, the society has grown into a vibrant student body that not only nurtures leadership and teamwork but also strengthens the link between theory and practice,” he said.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr Morenaogaufi J. Rankopo, Senior Lecturer and Graduate Coordinator in the Department of Social Work, traced the history of social work education at UB. He noted that the programme was founded to meet Botswana’s growing need for trained social workers capable of addressing complex social challenges. “The department has become a leading centre for social work training and research in Botswana, producing graduates who contribute meaningfully to social development locally and internationally,” he added.
On the professional realities of the field, Project Manager at SOS Children’s Villages, Mrs Ivy Mmeanyana, shared insights on what it meant to practise social work beyond the classroom. Mrs Mmeanyana emphasised the vital role social workers played in supporting vulnerable groups and communities while acknowledging challenges such as limited resources and heavy caseloads. She encouraged students to view the challenges as opportunities for creativity, advocacy and resilience in advancing social justice.
Closing the ceremony, UBSWS Vice President, Mr Kingsley Nwaigwe, delivered an inspiring message under the theme “From Passion to Practice.” He urged first year students to translate their compassion into meaningful action, stressing that empathy, communication and professionalism were essential qualities for every social worker. “Compassionate leadership and effective communication empower social workers to make a lasting impact in the lives of those they serve,” he said.