Staff Reporter
The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has announced the resolution of a long-standing impasse between the Women’s University in Africa (WUA) and the Council of Social Workers, a move hailed as a significant step in strengthening social work education and professional standards.
In a statement issued on December 30, the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, July G. Moyo, praised the collaborative efforts of all parties involved in addressing concerns raised by the Council of Social Workers regarding WUA’s Social Work Training Program.
“The Council of Social Workers had highlighted critical gaps within WUA’s Social Work Training Program. These concerns were taken seriously, and I commend WUA for their proactive and diligent efforts in addressing the issues identified by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) and the Council of Social Workers,” said Minister Moyo.
The resolution followed extensive consultations involving the Council of Social Workers, the ZIMCHE and WUA. The university developed and submitted a comprehensive implementation plan addressing the recommendations, which has since been approved by the oversight bodies.
“Following an in-depth review of the plan, we are pleased to announce that the Council of Social Workers has resumed its oversight of the Social Work Training programs offered by WUA. This development reflects our collective commitment to advancing the social work profession to better serve the needs of our communities,” Minister Moyo added.
The initial concerns, raised by the Council of Social Workers included curriculum alignment, practical training adequacy, and compliance with accreditation standards. The revised program now meets the regulatory benchmarks necessary to ensure quality education and professional practice in social work.
Minister Moyo emphasized that the resolution aligns with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which prioritizes labour and social protection reforms, including improved professional standards and social service delivery.
“This renewed partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration. It not only enhances the quality of education but also strengthens the capacity of social workers to address societal challenges effectively. Let us continue working together to build a thriving social work industry,” he stated.
The announcement has been well-received by stakeholders, who see it as a critical step in preparing social workers to meet the demands of Zimbabwe’s evolving social landscape. The resolution also underscores the government’s commitment to upholding professional standards across all sectors.
