The President of the Republic, Mr Danny Faure, was the guest of honour at the long-service award ceremony for social workers on the occasion of the World Social Work Day, held at the Baha’i Centre, Bel Air, this afternoon.

World Social Work Day was celebrated on 19 March under the theme, “Promoting the importance of human relationships.”

In her address at the event, the Minister for Family Affairs, Mrs Mitcy Larue, acknowledged and commended the important role that social workers play in the lives of those that are going through difficult moments in their lives, whereby they have helped in one way or another to alleviate their challenges.

“I note that many bridges have been built and partnerships with other stakeholders fostered to help alleviate the difficulties of those requiring assistance. My dear social workers, strengthening partnerships with the community will not only promote strong human relationships and allow you to overcome the many challenges you face in your work but will also bring about more positive results,” said Minister Larue.

She added, “The complexities of today’s social problems require well thought-out decisive actions. Any intervention requires not only good professional judgment, knowledge and skills but will be determined largely on abilities to truly engage with the clients, demonstrate respect, true understanding and empathy”.

She called upon the social workers to continue upskilling themselves and expand their capabilities for their professional development. She also encouraged former workers to consider coming back to the Ministry to support their colleagues. She commended the students at NIHSS who have chosen social work as a career and put themselves at the service of others.

During the award ceremony, President Faure had the honour to present special awards to the longest-serving social workers; Ms Sabine Florentine and Mrs Marie-Agnes Ally, who have both served for 25 years in the profession of social work.

Awards were also presented to two long-serving social workers; Mrs Debra Melanie and Mrs Louisa Bibi.

The ceremony also included an overview of a dissertation by a BSc Social Work Graduate, and songs, poems and reflections on social work by NIHSS students.