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# Operations Status Status Title Lastname Firstname eMail Institution Title of Presentatation Theme Selection Abstract SID
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Accepted Pending Review Dr. Yusuf Mohammed sanusi yusuf.ms@unilorin.edu.ng University of ilorin Assessment of technology based intervention among social workers in selected public health facilities in Nigeria THEME 6: Main-streaming Digital and Assessment Tools in Social Work Practice Technological advancement has not only positively impacted various human activities but also changed traditional face-to-face social work practices to digital interventions, especially in developed countries. This technology will help enhance clients' engagement, assessment, and empowerment. Despite this advancement, social work practice is still at a crude level in Nigeria. Hence, this study seeks to assess the level of technology-based intervention among social workers in selected public health facilities in Nigeria in South West Nigeria. A quantitative design will be used to gather information from respondents in the health facilities. Purposive and stratified sampling techniques will select 240 social workers from these facilities. Information gathered from the social workers will be gathered using descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, descriptive statistics will be used to describe the socio-demographic characteristics, while logistic regression will be employed to test technology's impact on intervention. The finding is expected to reveal the level of technology-based intervention among social workers in the selected public health facilities. Recommendations will be made to encourage the adoption of technology-based intervention among social workers in public health facilities in Nigeria.
Keywords: Technology, Social Worker, Intervention, Health, Nigeria		 764
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Xweso Mzukisi Mzukisi.xweso@nwu.ac.za Department of social work, northwest university APPLYING UBUDLELANE PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE TO SUPPORT DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITIES AFFECTED BY DISASTER-INDUCED HOUSING LOSS THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises Disasters such as heavy rains and flooding often result in devastating consequences for disadvantaged communities, particularly the loss of housing and basic shelter. Social workers play a critical role in disaster response and recovery efforts, particularly in providing psychosocial support, linking affected families to essential services and facilitating community rebuilding processes. This paper explores how the ubudlelane rooted in African communal values of interconnectedness, solidarity and collective responsibility can enhance social work interventions during disaster crises. Ubudlelane, which emphasises the importance of relationships, mutual care and community-centered problem-solving, aligns closely with the principles of disaster social work, which prioritises holistic, person-in-environment approaches. In the context of housing loss due to heavy rains, social workers can leverage Ubudlelane practices to mobilise community support systems, foster resilience through shared coping strategies and encourage collective rebuilding efforts. This philosophy can also strengthen disaster preparedness by reinforcing existing community networks and enhancing local capacity to respond to future crises. By integrating Ubudlelane into disaster intervention frameworks, social workers not only address immediate material and emotional needs but also foster long-term social cohesion and sustainable recovery. The paper further highlights practical approaches such as facilitating community healing circles, organising collective resource mobilisation initiatives, and collaborating with local leadership structures to co-develop culturally responsive disaster interventions. In conclusion, the use of ubudlelane philosophy in disaster social work contributes to culturally grounded, context-specific and community-driven responses that empower disadvantaged communities to rebuild not just their homes, but also the social fabric essential for resilience and wellbeing.
Keywords: Ubudlelane, disaster social work, housing loss, disadvantaged communities, heavy rains, community resilience, collective recovery, African communal values
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Chibaya Nyasha hillary nyasha827@gmail.com Stellenbosch university More than what meets the eye: an introspection of gender and sexuality in South African social work. THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) South African lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA+) populations continue to suffer extreme structural violence and systematic oppression. Colonialism and apartheid are arguably credited for instituting and maintaining a legacy of heteronormativity and patriarchy characterised by rigid gender norms together with violent forms of masculine expression. Other than being natural or immutable, typical norms regarding gender and sexuality are inextricably bound up with political, social, economic and cultural contexts. Despite having a progressive constitution that prohibits discrimination towards sexual and gender minorities, heteronormativity is institutionally and socially reinforced. Consequently, LGBTQIA+ populations regularly experience social stigma, discrimination, and extreme forms of violence, with oppressive experiences varying across class, ethnic, racial, and geographic lines. South African social work operates within this context, characterised by tensions between progressive pursuits of broadening and acknowledging varied lived experiences, and conservatism that foreground normativity and hegemonic expressions of powerful positionalities. At the risk of being remiss to its instrumentality in atrocities committed during Apartheid, current social work practices appear to maintain the status quo. Reports abound of gender and sexual minorities being pathologized by practitioners. Records of harmful research, divorced from the lived realities of respective populations have been often sited to deny them their constitutionally guaranteed human rights. Due to fear of controversy and conflict, educational institutions arguably make no attempt at critical conscientisation. Paradoxically, Freire identifies education as the central site for social transformation, wherein both the oppressor and the oppressed in societies need to embrace change. Thus, this presentation seeks to critically delineate gender and sexuality in a South African social work context. Ultimately, the authors argue for the application of anti-oppressive practice in social work as a critical framework to identify and challenge oppressive structures and systems that deny sexual and gender minorities social justice.

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Pending Review Pending Review Ms. Madikizela-theu Busisiwe busisiwemt@mandela.ac.za Nelson mandela university Performing Resistance: Feminist Approaches to Young Women’s Empowerment in Contexts of Patriarchy and Environmental Precarity THEME 5: Feminist Perspectives and Environmental Justice This paper critically examines the intersection of feminist theory and green social work by exploring how socio-environmental conditions shape young women’s lived experiences in South Africa, particularly within intimate relationships. Grounded in Judith Butler’s concept of gender performativity, the study interrogates how patriarchal ideologies and entrenched gender norms operate across both private and public spheres, constraining young women’s autonomy and limiting their access to social, economic, and environmental justice. By situating young women’s vulnerability within a broader framework of intersectional oppression—spanning gender inequality, economic dependency, and environmental marginalisation—the paper adopts a feminist lens to expose how structural injustices produce and sustain disadvantage.
The study asks: How do patriarchal norms and gendered socio-cultural expectations within intimate relationships contribute to young women's marginalisation in conditions of economic and environmental precarity, and how can feminist-informed social work respond to these challenges?
Employing a critical ethnographic approach, the study engaged 15 young women aged 18–24 from the Rise Out of School Prevention Programme in Qheberha to explore how societal expectations shape their agency—particularly in relation to sexual negotiation, freedom of movement, and relationship-based decision-making. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews revealed how gender roles are internalised and performed in ways that reinforce marginalisation, with economic dependency intensifying their vulnerability to gender-based violence and environmental insecurity.
By advancing feminist approaches to green social work, the paper highlights the urgent need for practice frameworks that are intersectional, justice-oriented, and ecologically conscious. It proposes educational and policy reforms that centre feminist values, ultimately offering social workers and policymakers tools to confront intertwined gender and environmental injustices affecting young women in marginalised communities.
Key Words: Gender Performativity, Feminist Social Work, Environmental Precarity, Transactional Relationships, Young Women’s Empowerment		 767
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Dipela Mmaphuti percy dipelmp1@unisa.ac.za University of south africa THE PSYCHOSOCIAL EXPERIENCES, CHALLENGES AND NEEDS OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS STUDYING UNDER ACADEMIC PROBATION PROGRAMME IN THE FREE STATE PROVINCE THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development This study explores the experiences, challenges, and needs of university students enrolled in the Academic Probation Programme, a support initiative designed to assist academically underprepared students in their transition to higher education. This study aimed to explore and describe the psychosocial experiences of these students to develop guidelines for their continued psychosocial support as well as the effectiveness of institutional support structures in addressing their needs. Using a qualitative research approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with students at the institution of higher learning in Free State. Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring patterns in students' experiences. The findings reveal that while the Academic Probation Programme provides critical academic support, including extended curricula and foundational courses, students face persistent challenges such as stigma, shame, isolation, financial strain and exclusion, and limited resources. Many participants reported feelings of exclusion, anxiety, and confusion, leading to diminished self-confidence and motivation. Additionally, financial barriers such as the cost of study materials and inadequate funding exacerbate their struggles. Despite these challenges, students acknowledged the programme's value in improving their academic preparedness and fostering a sense of belonging. The study highlights the need for enhanced institutional interventions, including psychosocial support, increased financial aid, and greater integration into the broader university community. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on equity in higher education, advocating for policy reforms to strengthen the programme’s effectiveness. Addressing the specific needs of students on probation is crucial in promoting academic success, retention, and overall well-being, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary tools to thrive in higher education. The study concludes that while the Academic Probation Programme is vital for bridging educational gaps, comprehensive and inclusive strategies are required to enhance student experiences and outcomes. The study was ethically approved by the University of South Africa ethics committee. 768
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Accepted Pending Review Ms. Baloyi Dzunisani euginea dzunisani.baloyi@univen.ac.za University of venda Reconnection and Continuum of care for persons with Substance Use Disorder: A review paper THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Substance abuse is a global health concern and is regarded as a family disease. Family members are affected as much as the service users. Most families are always there for their loved ones in every step of substance use progression into substance use disorder. Families and communities assist service users in coping by providing support, applying strategies to help them realize their problems, and motivating them to seek professional help. The researcher has adopted a systematic literature review as a methodology for the study. The researcher reviewed the literature thematically to give structure and to ensure that the discussions were relevant and aligned. Given the experience of working in an in-patient treatment centre for persons with substance use disorder as a social worker and addiction counsellor, this paper proposes a treatment that is inclusive to the families from its onset when a problem of substance abuse is identified. Treatment currently focuses on the service user rather than the whole family, which makes it challenging to render reconnection and reintegration. 770
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Sekgobela Tumelo tumelo.sekgobela@univen.ac.za University of venda COMPREHENDING BULLYING IN AN EDUCATIONAL SETTING IN LIMPOPO PROVINCE: INSIGHTS FROM THE SOCIAL WORK DISCIPLINE THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice Tumelo Sekgobela
Tumelo.sekgobela@univen.ac.za
Department of social work
Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education
University of Venda, South African, Limpopo Province

COMPREHENDING BULLYING IN AN EDUCATIONAL SETTING IN LIMPOPO PROVINCE: INSIGHTS FROM THE SOCIAL WORK DISCIPLINE
Bullying is arguably the most prevalent form of aggression and violence experienced by learners during their schooling years. This phenomenon is gaining increasing recognition among social scientists globally and is becoming a pressing concern at local levels. It is widely discussed within social work due to its profound effects on individuals. Bullying is associated with a myriad of social issues, including mental health problems, trauma, diminished academic performance, school dropout rates, and, tragically, suicide. Given the emotionally demanding nature of the social work profession, understanding bullying is of utmost importance. The study was conducted in five regions of the Limpopo Province of South Africa. This location was chosen because of the prevalence of bullying incidents reported across the province. This study employed a qualitative research approach to investigate the understanding of bullying among social workers in educational settings. Social workers were targeted as the study participants. The study aimed to develop a comprehensive understanding of bullying using face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with participants selected through purposive sampling. Prior to data collection, participants provided informed consent and were informed of audio-recording procedures. Thematic content analysis was applied to analyze the data. The study was guided by the ecological approach as a theoretical framework. The study findings revealed that the participants have a clear understanding of bullying. The study recommends continuous training and recruitment of social workers in schools.
Keywords: Bullying, context, learning, social work, understanding.


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Accepted Accepted Ms. Motsikoe Amanda Amanda.motsikoe@gmail.com University of witwatersrand Exploring the experiences of ECD practitioners pre- and post-COVID-19 in Diepsloot, Gauteng Province THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The COVID-19 virus was initially detected in late 2019 in Wuhan, China. COVID-19 continued to spread relentlessly, necessitating the World Health Organisation (WHO) to characterize it as a pandemic and emphasise the gravity of the situation so that countries could put measures in place to curb the scourge of this new, vicious pandemic. The Early Childhood Centres (ECDs) were among the services that were adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. It is, therefore, against this background that this study was conducted to explore the experiences of ECD practitioners pre- and post-COVID-19 in Diepsloot, Gauteng Province. Theoretically, the study is informed by the Systems Theory and Person-in-environment approach (PIE). To gather data, the researcher used a qualitative research method. Ten (10) participants were purposively sampled from the population of ECD Practitioners who were employees in the ECD sector pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic. Data was collected through focus group discussions; field notes and recordings were taken. A thematic analysis was used to analyse and interpret the data collected. The main findings were transitioning from face-to-face to online learning happened haphazardly with minimal resources, and no training was provided. The COVID-19 pandemic brought so much distress into the lives of ECD practitioners at a professional level and increased the workload with minimal resources. It is recommended that an emergency/disaster framework be developed and a hybrid teaching system for both classroom and technological environment be recommended.
Keywords: COVID-19, Impact, ECDs, Practitioners, Traditional operations.

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Accepted Accepted Mr. Nombola Lulama justice lnombola@ufh.ac.za University of fort hare Exploring the Cross-Cultural Differences between Conceptions of Forgiveness: A case study of IsiXhosa and English-speaking South Africans THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development This presentation seeks to examine the cross-cultural differences between conceptions of forgiveness. In social work, the concept of forgiveness is advanced to examine social work practitioners and educators to see if there is any potential need or perceived benefit for forgiveness education, or a perceived need of forgiveness applications in social work practice. However, in philosophical literature the debate pertaining to forgiveness is around its nature with divergent perspectives on whether it is conditional, a moral obligation and what its implications are for justice and human relationships. The main goal is to determine whether South African IsiXhosa, and South African Anglophone speakers employ different concepts of forgiveness. This involves examining critical elements of each group's comprehension of forgiveness, such as conditionality, bilaterality, and moral duty. Furthermore, the study examines the role of cognitive and cultural factors to ascertain if the variation in the concept of forgiveness is rooted in cognitive differences that are influenced by culture and describe cross-cultural misunderstandings in reconciliation by examining how the conceptual distinctions could lead to miscommunication throughout the post-apartheid racial reconciliation process in South Africa. The study takes an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating ideas from moral philosophy, cognitive science, and cross-cultural psychology and social work. The study will employ a qualitative research method. The sample will comprise ten (10) of the South African Anglophone urban whites, ten (10) Xhosa undergraduate students, and ten (10) selected rural Xhosa population of different ages, gender and with different concepts of forgiveness. Interviews for data collection will be conducted in English to Anglophone South Africans of European descent, in Xhosa-to-Xhosa undergraduate students and to Xhosa-speaking rural population. The objective of the study is to provide information that might be useful in resolving possible misunderstandings in multicultural and multiethnic discussions about healing and forgiveness. Also, creating culturally sensitive models of forgiveness by recognizing that these variations will provide more comprehensive theoretical insights to social work, education and practice. 776
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Accepted Accepted Dr. Van wyk Carel vanwykcj@ufs.ac.za University of the free state An Archetypal Absence: Jungian Reflections on Psychosocial-Spiritual Disconnection from the Natural World THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises This paper explores C. G. Jung's perspectives on the relationship between humanity and nature. Jung expressed concern over the increasing disconnection from the natural world, viewing it as detrimental to the human psyche. He believed that direct engagement with nature held a vital cleansing and restorative power, suggesting that, in its excess, civilisation could lead to spiritual and psychological contamination. Jung considered the Earth to possess its soul or spirit, a concept aligning with ancient beliefs in a living and ensouled world. He used the terms soul, psyche, and spirit interchangeably, even equating the psyche with Nature itself, sometimes capitalising "Nature" to convey a sense of its inherent sacredness. For Jung, nature was not merely matter but a spiritual dimension, contrasting this rich, meaningful image of the "Great Mother" with the dry, intellectual concept of "matter." The paper highlights Jung's assertion that the loss of connection with nature is fundamentally a religious problem, indicating a severance from a deep-seated aspect of human experience and spirituality. He advocated for a harmonious existence with nature, drawing attention to the wisdom inherent in the animal world. Jung suggested that understanding and integrating the "animal within" could lead to a more grounded, reasonable, and law-abiding existence, fostering a reconnection with one's inherent nature and a primal sense of the divine. He considered a deep, intuitive connection with animals a profound and truthful experience, often misunderstood or dismissed in modern society. This exploration of Jung's ideas resonates with the theme of the Green Social Work and Climate Resilience conference. By examining the psychological and spiritual resources lost through this disconnection, the paper aligns with sub-theme 1.3. Jung’s insights offer a valuable framework for understanding the deeper psychological and spiritual dimensions of our relationship with the natural world.
Sabini, M. (ed.). 2002. The earth has a soul: The nature writings of C. G. Jung. Berkley: North Atlantic Books.		 777
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Pending Review Accepted Dr. Van wyk Carel vanwykcj@ufs.ac.za University of the free state A Jungian Exploration of the Ecological Self and Ecotherapy THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises My paper explores Jungian thought and ecotherapy within the context of green social work and climate resilience. The paper theorises that the Jungian concept of the ecological self, which describes a deep interconnectedness between the individual psyche and the natural world, provides a very important theoretical foundation for green social work practices. Ecotherapy is presented as a practical approach to support this ecological self and support a sense of oneness with life (the Unus Mundus principle), potentially shifting individuals from ego-centric suffering towards identification with a larger, more meaningful reality. The exploration investigates the significance of relationships with natural elements, such as animals, plants, stone, and water, highlighting Jung's personal connection with stone as a grounding aspect of the self. The paper also examines the phenomenon of synchronicity, often observed in nature, as moments that reveal the interconnectedness of all things within a unified reality, a concept Jung termed the Unus Mundus. These experiences of synchronicity can offer profound insights into the holistic nature of existence. Furthermore, the paper stresses Jung's early recognition of the harmful psychological consequences of humanity's detachment from the natural world, reasoning that this dissociation underlies the current ecological and social crises. By developing a deeper connection with the ecological self through ecotherapeutic practices informed by Jungian principles, the paper suggests a pathway towards enhanced well-being, resilience, and a more responsible relationship with the environment.
Rust, M. 2020. Towards an Ecopsychotherapy. London: Confer Books. Kindle Edition. 		779
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Pending Review Pending Review Mr. Smith Marquin e. mesmith@uwc.ac.za University of the western cape FINANCIAL LITERACY AS A PILLAR FOR SOCIAL PROTECTION: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS IN IMPOVERISHED COMMUNITIES THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) In South Africa, social protection is constitutionally recognised as a fundamental human right and a mechanism to safeguard against poverty and inadequate living standards. During the recent 2025/26 budget speech, the Minister of Finance allocated R284.7 billion for the disbursement of social grants—affirming this intervention as a cornerstone of the government's response to persistent high levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequality. However, to ensure that grant recipients evolve from passive beneficiaries to active agents in their own development, the National Department of Social Development has initiated a series of roundtable discussions focused on linking social protection mechanisms with sustainable livelihood opportunities. A growing body of literature underscores the urgent need for targeted financial empowerment initiatives to facilitate this transition from poverty to sustainable economic engagement. Within this context, financial literacy emerges as a critical strategy for empowerment—one that can be effectively delivered through the social work profession. By equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to manage personal and household finances—including earning, spending, saving, borrowing, and investing—financial literacy interventions can play a pivotal role in enhancing economic self-sufficiency. The authors contend that integrating financial literacy into the broader framework of social protection not only strengthens the efficacy of social grants but also aligns with the objectives of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as poverty eradication, zero hunger, and reduced inequalities. This paper critically examines the imperative of embedding financial literacy interventions within South Africa’s social protection strategy and explores their potential to foster sustainable livelihoods among vulnerable populations. 780
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Accepted Pending Review Dr. Gumbi Sandile ntethelelo gumbisn4@gmail.com University of mpumalanga SOCIAL WORK AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT: AN AFROCENTRIC PERSPECTIVE OF THE RELEVANCE OF ECOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK IN SOUTHERN AFRICA THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises This article employs qualitative document analysis to investigate the relevance of ecological social work through a purposeful selection of policies, frameworks, reports, and literature informing social work curricula. While the article focused on Southern Africa, the South African social work curricula served as the immediate point of reference as documented through the exit-level outcomes and standards, respectively. A defining challenge in this regard is tapping into social work education, practice, and literature related to ecology, based on the rise of natural disasters. Southern Africa, like the rest of the world, is confronted by natural disasters that pose a threat to human life and degradation and destruction of the sustainable physical (natural) environment. The ecosystemic theoretical lens served to explain the humanenvironment interaction. This article calls for a review of education and practice among the helping professions and propounds for the alternative and reviewed understanding of the
natural environment, with the person of the place viewed in interaction with the environment. This article recommends reimagined alternative and reviewed interventions, which are African-based, conceptually-relevant, and context-driven. The article concludes the marginalisation of the natural environment in social work education and practice propounds promoting awareness, understanding, and designing interventions that advance environmental sustainability.
Keywords: Person-in-environment, person of a place, natural environment, African-centred perspective		 781
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Accepted Pending Review Dr. Nyaude Onesmus nyaudeo@gmail.com Zimbabwe anti-corruption commission Utilizing the Sociology of Ethics to Combat Corruption and Strengthen Peace-building Frameworks in Social Work Education THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development This study explores using the sociology of ethics—examining societal norms, cultural values, and collective moral principles shaping human behavior—as a framework to combat corruption and support peace-building in social work education. Unlike social work ethics, which focus on professional standards guiding individual practitioners, sociological ethics emphasize societal structures and cultural contexts influencing collective morals and behaviors. Given the urgent need for social, economic, and environmental justice, this research aims to develop educational practices that empower social workers to contribute actively to sustainable development. By integrating ethical dimensions into the social work curriculum, the goal is to prepare practitioners capable of addressing corruption and fostering peace within their communities. The study employs a Convergent Parallel Design, using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data will be collected through surveys of social work educators and practitioners about their perceptions and implementation of ethical frameworks. Qualitative data will be gathered via in-depth interviews and focus groups, providing insights into their experiences and challenges related to ethics, corruption, and peace-building. The sample will include social work programs across diverse socioeconomic contexts to ensure comprehensive understanding of the issues. Findings are expected to reveal gaps in current social work education regarding ethics and corruption, alongside effective strategies for promoting peace and justice. The study aims to demonstrate that incorporating the sociology of ethics into social work education enhances professional practice and contributes to broader societal goals of justice and sustainable development. Recommendations will include curriculum reforms that integrate ethical training, community-based collaborative projects, and ongoing research initiatives to explore these frameworks' impact in various contexts. Ultimately, this research seeks to establish a model for utilizing ethical sociology as a vital component in advancing justice and peace-building through social work education, contributing valuable insights to the field’s knowledge base. 782
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Rejected Rejected Dr. Adewumi Idowu adewumiisreal@gmail.com Kwara state college of education oro, nigeria ACCESSIBILITY AND APPLICATION OF ICT IN TEACHING OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE IN SOME SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development 784
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Accepted Pending Review Dr. Naidu Lyrise lyrisen@dut.ac.za Durban university of technology The efficacy of equine-based therapy in dealing with mental health problems in a South African context THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development Nature-based psychotherapeutic interventions have gained significant traction in the West over the past decade, offering promising approaches for individuals facing diverse health and psycho-social challenges. Among these, equine-based therapy—harnessing the natural environment and the innate responsiveness of horses—has emerged as a powerful ecosystemic approach. While international research has documented its effectiveness, there remains limited empirical evidence on its theoretical foundation and efficacy within the South African context.
This study employed a qualitative instrumental case design to explore the role of equine-based therapy within South Africa. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen mental health professionals practicing equine-based therapy across the country. Additionally, field visits to equine therapy farms provided critical insights into the core principles, therapeutic processes, and the implementation of equine-assisted interventions. These findings deepened the understanding of how therapy unfolds within natural settings through dynamic interactions between the client, horse, and social worker, with the horse serving as a co-therapist.
The study revealed that equine-based therapy has demonstrated efficacy in addressing conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, child abuse, and domestic violence. It also explored the transformative potential of horses in therapeutic work by facilitating non-verbal communication, fostering emotional regulation, and promoting empowerment for young people who struggle with traditional talk therapy.
Horses, as highly sensitive and intuitive beings, create a therapeutic space where clients can explore self-awareness, emotional resilience, and relational patterns. The natural environment further enriches this process, reinforcing the connection between cognitive, emotional, and physical healing. This research highlights equine-based therapy as a promising, yet underutilized, modality within South African mental health practice. Its integration into therapeutic disciplines can offer an innovative, nature-centered alternative to conventional psychotherapeutic interventions, enhancing the overall well-being of individuals facing psychological distress.
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Nqayi Zamansele 240106052@stu.unizulu.ac.za University of zululand Green Social Work as a Catalyst for Policy Advocacy and Community Empowerment THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises The escalating impacts of climate change and environmental degradation have disproportionately affected vulnerable communities worldwide, exposing deep-rooted social, economic, and environmental inequalities. This chapter explores the emerging field of Green Social Work (GSW) as a vital framework for enhancing climate resilience, particularly among marginalized populations. Grounded in principles of environmental justice, human rights, and sustainability, GSW integrates ecological consciousness into social work theory and practice. The paper examines how social workers can act as change agents by advocating for policies that mitigate climate risks, promoting community-based adaptation strategies, and empowering individuals and groups through inclusive and participatory approaches. Drawing from case studies in developing and developed contexts, it highlights interdisciplinary collaborations and culturally sensitive interventions that strengthen both environmental and social systems. Ultimately, this paper positions Green Social Work as an essential discipline in addressing the complex interplay between ecological crises and human vulnerability, emphasizing its transformative potential in building more just and resilient societies.
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Pending Review Accepted Dr. Matsea Thabisa Thabisa.Matsea@univen.ac.za University of venda Addressing rural women’s mental health challenges: integrating social work approaches into SDG 3 THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) This paper examines the relationship between mental health issues faced by rural women and the application of social work methodologies in the context of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) - "Good Health and Well-Being." This goal encompasses the promotion of well-being and the assurance of healthy lives for individuals of all ages. A comprehensive strategy that considers social, cultural, and environmental factors is needed to address these issues. A comprehensive approach that considers social, cultural, and environmental factors is needed to address these challenges Social work plays a key role in mitigating the impact of these factors on rural women’s mental health. Within the framework of SDG 3, social work focuses on promoting rural women's mental health through advocacy, empowerment, and community engagement.
This paper discusses strategies for integrating social work approaches into SDG 3 to address rural women's mental health challenges. Firstly, it conceptualizes women’s mental health within a rural context. Secondly, it emphasizes the significance of community-based interventions that facilitate the provision of support and promotion of mental well-being through the existing social networks and resources. The paper highlights the need for culturally competent practices that embrace the diversity of rural communities and, hence, respect their belief systems, values, and traditions. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of collaboration between social workers and various stakeholders to develop comprehensive and sustainable mental health solutions. This includes initiatives to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and influence policy changes to prioritize rural women’s mental health on national agendas. Integrating social work approaches can facilitate the achievement of equitable access to mental health services and improve the overall well-being of rural women, thereby advancing the broader agenda of sustainable development and social justice.
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Gounder Kubeshni gounderk1@ufs.ac.za University of the free state The Africanisation of the Circle of Courage THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) This ethnographic study addresses the critical need for culturally relevant approaches to positive youth development within African contexts, aligning with the ASASWEI 2025 conference theme of social work and the achievement of sustainable development goals, specifically concerning work with special and vulnerable populations like children. The research critically examines the Circle of Courage, a strengths-based framework rooted in Native American values, and its potential for adaptation in Africa. Recognising that Western-centric models may not fully resonate with diverse African cultural values and beliefs, this study explores the "Africanisation" of the Circle of Courage within a specific African community. Through immersive fieldwork and collaborative engagement with community members, the research aims to develop a culturally sensitive and applicable framework that honours Indigenous values and practices. This decolonising approach seeks to centre African perspectives, address historical disruptions such as the colonial legacy, and leverage core African philosophies like Ubuntu, emphasising interconnectedness and collective responsibility. The anticipated outcome is a culturally relevant model that can inform the development of effective and inclusive interventions, educational programmes, and community initiatives, ultimately contributing to the well-being and resilience of African children. 792
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Accepted Accepted Ms. Gaitskill Christené Gaitskilljc@ufs.ac.za Ufs Navigating the Shadows: Addressing Parental Manipulation in Child-focused Mediation THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) This presentation addresses the critical intersection of social work principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically focusing on vulnerable populations like children and families navigating separation. Mediation, as a constructive dispute resolution method, holds immense potential in empowering separating parents to collaboratively develop child-centered parenting plans, fostering respectful co-parenting, and contributing to the SDG target of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
This presentation addresses the critical intersection of social work principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically focusing on vulnerable populations like children and families navigating separation. Mediation, as a constructive dispute resolution method, holds immense potential in empowering separating parents to collaboratively develop child-centered parenting plans, fostering respectful co-parenting, and contributing to the SDG target of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies.
However, the emotionally charged context of parental separation can, unfortunately, create fertile ground for parental manipulation. This conceptual desktop analysis delves into the complex challenge of identifying and addressing various forms of manipulation within mediation, including emotional coercion, the harmful tactic of triangulation involving children, strategic information withholding, and the adoption of victimhood narratives. We will analyse the detrimental impact of these manipulative tactics on the mediation process itself and on the resulting parenting plans. Often, these plans become skewed by power imbalances, failing to truly reflect the paramount best interests of the children involved. The presentation concludes by emphasising the crucial role of social work-informed mediation practices in recognising and counteracting manipulation to ensure equitable and child-focused outcomes for separating families.
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