Employment opportunities for Social Work Graduates remains a priority

The Western Cape is leading the way in employing and developing graduate social workers. The provincial Department of Social Development has budgeted R20.91 million towards funding a maximum of 143 social work graduates.

Many of the social work graduates are appointed on a contractual basis to fulfil their respective bursary obligations.

“We are aware of the need for social work services across the province, and as such, we remain committed to ensuring that there are opportunities for further development and training of social work graduates.

“Social work is a dynamic and demanding occupation that requires a diversity of skills and qualities. Whether these skills are distinctive or learned, success in the field requires social workers to continually develop themselves throughout their career”, said the Western Cape Minister for Social Development, Sharna Fernandez.

“In light of the many social challenges in the province and South Africa at large, it is critical that our public service social workers are committed and sufficiently capacitated to carry out the difficult work that faces them with dignity.”