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269 submissions
| # Sort descending | Operations | Status | Status | Title | Lastname | Firstname | Institution | Title of Presentatation | Theme Selection | Abstract | SID | |
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| 83 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Mphuthi | Dimakatso hessie sylvia | mphuthimarxist@gmail.com | Department of social development | AN EVALUATION OF 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM OF NO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND CHILDREN CAMPAIGN IN PHUTHADITJHABA AREA | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | AN EVALUATION OF 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM OF NO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND CHILDREN CAMPAIGN IN PHUTHADITJHABA AREA Gender based violence is recognized as a global public health and human rights problem that leads to high rates of morbidity and mortality. In responding to this scourge South African government has adopted a campaign called 16 Days of Activism of no violence against women and children. This campaign was introduced in 1999 but literature review reveals that to date, few or no studies have focused on its evaluation. As such, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the 16 Days campaign with special reference to the Phuthaditjhaba community in Free State Province. The study revealed a high level of crime (sexual violence or rape) in the area. The Phuthaditjhaba community felt that the campaign is indeed a crucial initiative with significant contributions in raising awareness and mobilizing collective action against GBV. Moreover, the community further indicated that the campaign helped them to know what to do and which stakeholders to contact should they be faced with GBV so that they can also assist those who are directly affected. Additionally, they raised the concern on the fact that pronouncements and campaigns are made on annual basis but, there seems to be a need for a comprehensive intervention, including the strengthening of the criminal justice system. Thus, citing a need to acknowledge its limitations towards a more holistic approach. The residents are by now familiar with the depressing statistics on the prevalence of violence against women and children and viewed the study as important part in coming up with substantive measures in dealing with the scourge. The study is descriptive in nature and used qualitative approach. Study builds on diffusion of innovation theory. Sample included 20 participants who were interviewed. Also, recommendations were made that government departments must work together with the NGOs, and the involvement of men and boys’ strategy. DIMAKATSO HESSIE SYLVIA MPHUTHI |
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| 84 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Leloko edwin | Matsenyane | leloko.matsenyane2@webmail.com | Department of social developemnt | FACTORS INFLUENCING SUSTAINABILITY OF LOCAL DRUG ACTION COMMITTEES IN THE FREE STATE PROVINCE: CASE STUDY OF MANGAUNG MUNICIPALITY | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | FACTORS INFLUENCING SUSTAINABILITY OF LOCAL DRUG ACTION COMMITTEES IN THE FREE STATE PROVINCE: CASE STUDY OF MANGAUNG MUNICIPALITY BACKGROUND The Local Drug Action Committee (LDAC) is the closest body to the community which is made up of individuals from different stakeholders at a local level to coordinate the activities aimed at the prevention of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking within the communities. Since the implementation of the committees, the sustainability of these committees has been a challenge in the Free State Province. The study endeavoured to explore factors which influence the sustainability of these committees in the Free State Province. METHODS A qualitative research approach that was explorative and descriptive in nature was employed. A case study design was used. Purposive sampling was applied to select the participants from two LDACs in Mangaung Municipality. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect the data during individual in-depth interviews with five participants. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS The main findings indicated that there was a lack of knowledge among the committee members about their roles, responsibilities and mandates. Their inability to coordinate the stakeholder activities as well as the limited knowledge about the relationship between the Free State Mini Drug Master Plan (FSMDMP) and the LDACs also appeared to be challenging. CONCLUSION The main conclusions drawn from the study are that despite the excellent structure of the LDACs to coordinate the implementation of the FSMDMP, the members of the LDACs are neither knowledgeable about nor capacitated to fulfil their roles and responsibilities to meet the intended requirements and implement the activities of the FSMDMP, factors which hamper sustainability. The lack of financial support from Government to fund the activities of the LDACs in the Province is another major impediment in terms of sustainability. |
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| 85 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Ngwenya | Lungile | lungilen@mandela.ac.za | Nelson mandela university | EXAMINING THE EFFICACY OF THE ALTERNATIVES TO VIOLENCE PROJECT (AVP) ON THE REHABILITATION OF OFFENDERS | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) in South Africa has long struggled with high levels of violence, which has undermined the effectiveness of its rehabilitation mandate. Violence within correctional centres reflects broader societal patterns and is closely tied to the legacy of apartheid, which has left deep-rooted structural injustices across institutions. These injustices are further compounded by environmental factors such as overcrowding, ventilation, number gangs, and limited access to green or rehabilitative spaces. This legacy has contributed to the construction of aggressive masculine identities that normalise conflict and violence, both inside and outside prison walls. Recognising this, Pollsmoor Correctional Centre initiated the Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) in 2004 as a strategy to support offender rehabilitation through non-violent conflict resolution and personal transformation. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of AVP in shaping offenders’ perceptions and experiences of conflict and violence within a South African correctional facility. Employing a transcendental phenomenological design, which is exploratory, descriptive, and contextual in nature, the research engaged ten sentenced offenders through purposive sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using the Van Kaam Framework as modified by Moustakas (1994). Findings revealed that AVP participation led to significant positive changes in offenders’ self-perceptions, including increased self-awareness, improved self-esteem, and enhanced interpersonal communication. These shifts fostered empathy, trust, emotional regulation, and stronger conflict resolution skills, contributing to a greater sense of community among participants. The study advocates for the institutionalisation and wider implementation of AVP within correctional facilities as a strategic intervention aligned with peacebuilding and social justice goals. By addressing the systemic and historical roots of violence and promoting rehabilitative rather than punitive approaches, AVP supports the creation of more humane, equitable correctional environments. Furthermore, the programme's transformative potential lays a foundation for broader restorative justice and community-based reintegration frameworks. These may, in turn, serve as vehicles for integrating environmental justice principles, offering a holistic approach to offender reintegration that honours both social and ecological well-being. |
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| 86 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Kwena | Kelebogile | Kelebogile.Kwena@fssocdev.gov.za | Department of social development | Green Social Work: Integrating Environmental Justice into Social Work Practice | THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises | Green Social Work: Integrating Environmental Justice into Social Work Practice Authors: P. S. C Douw and K. C Kwena The Department of Social Development in the Free State (Lejweleputswa-Welkom) Presentation format: Parallel Session Presentation (PowerPoint) 1. BACKGROUND The problem that was identified within the field of social work practice is how the environmental issues disproportionately affect vulnerable groups and exacerbate existing social inequalities. The hypothesis was tested through service delivery within the community. The environmental and ecological challenges affecting specifically Older persons and Persons with disabilities e.g. floods (which occur every rainy season without disaster preparedness plan in place) and residents needs to travel to Odendaalsrus to access other resources e.g. Police Station, Banks, Shops, etc. The community of Allanriidge with an estimated population 18, 879 as of 2025, with estimated 10% disability and 14,31 % of Older persons which forms part of the community). 2. Aims The primary objective of the research is to promote social justice for these groups by integrating core social work principles with environmental sustainability and ecological well-being. This integration aims to enhance the resilience of older persons and persons with disabilities in the face of climate change and related environmental crises. 3. METHODS Social worker are well placed to collect/analyse numerical data from the organisations, as monthly statistics, attendance registers are constantly engaged and patterns and/or challenges identified. 4. RESULTS The focus groups (Older persons 60+, persons with disabilities), face multiple stressors, including and not limited to economic instability, lack of access to resources, and inadequate infrastructure, making them more susceptible to the impacts of climate change. 5. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this paper advocates for transformative shift in social work that embraces green principles, positioning social workers as key agents of change in the pursuit of social and environmental justice. By adopting a green social work approach, practitioners can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future, ensuring that the needs of both people and the planet are met. |
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| 87 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Maxhakana | Zama | zmaxhakana@gmail.com | Public health sector | Experiences social workers in healthcare: A multi-disciplinary approach | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | Social workers in healthcare settings play a vital role, collaborating with a variety of professionals such as doctors, nurses, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. This study explored the experiences of social workers in multidisciplinary teams (MDT's), focusing on their perceptions, challenges and understanding of their professional role. A qualitative case study design was adopted, using a purposeful sampling technique to select sixteen participants from King Cetshwayo Health District. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed thematically to identify key experiences and issues related to multidisciplinary collaborative work. The study revealed that despite social workers' valuable contribution in the area of patient care, they often experience exclusion from critical processes, consultations and decision-making within MDTs. Participants reported prevailing sense of marginalisation, powerlessness, and a lack of confidence in asserting their professional role. The four major themes that emerged included the persistent lack of role clarity regarding the scope and responsibilities of social workers within healthcare teams; the hierarchical nature of team structures, which often undermined social work contributions, the ineffective interprofessional communication, limiting collaboration and mutual understanding, and limited understanding of the social work profession by other healthcare practitioners. The study brought about insight into critical barriers to effective multidisciplinary collaborations and underscores the need for strengthening the professional identity of social work. it is recommended that efforts be made to support social workers in asserting their professional roles within MDTs, foster greater understanding and respect for social work contributions among other healthcare professionals and develop educational curricula that emphasise integrated and multidisciplinary working to better prepare social workers for collaborative healthcare environments. | 870 | |
| 88 | Accepted | Pending Review | Dr. | Smith | Sufran | smith.sufran@gmail.com | Nwu | Findings from a rapid review on the best practices in supervision of social workers | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | Social work supervision in South Africa adheres to best practices designed to support social workers' professional growth, personal well-being, and ethical practice. Forensic social work, formally recognised in 2017, remains a developing field with limited specialised training and a shortage of experienced supervisors. Although general social work supervision has been widely researched, no prior review studies have examined best practices in the supervision of either social work in general or forensic social work. This study examines literature on best practices of general social work supervision, using rapid review methodology. Content analysis was used to extract and examine data and to find similarities among mixed-method, qualitative, and quantitative research studies. The WorldCat Discovery Search engine supplied by the North-West University of South Africa was used to conduct thorough searches. The predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria were satisfied by 34 research studies. The findings emphasise that supervision is shaped by various interconnected factors that can either improve or detract from the supervision experience. This underscores the importance of adopting a holistic approach that considers personal, professional, and environmental influences, ensuring supervision effectively balances its administrative, educational, and supportive functions. The study highlights key practical implications for both current practice and future research. | 877 | |
| 89 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Shilenge | Meshack ownchei | owncheimeshack@yahoo.com | North west university | Traditional Beliefs and Cultural Practices Surrounding Child Adoption in the Tsonga Community: A Qualitative Study | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Traditional Beliefs and Cultural Practices Surrounding Child Adoption in the Tsonga Community: A Qualitative Study Shilenge Meshack Ownchei Department of Social Development, Mopani District, Limpopo/ COMPRES, North-West University owncheimeshack@yahoo.com Vincent Mabvurira COMPRES, North-West University Vincent.Mabvurira@nwu.ac.za Abstract Adoption as a legal alternative care system has its origins in Western cultures. In contrast, African societies, including the Tsonga community, emphasize communal child-rearing, involving parents, extended families, and the broader community. Despite its potential to address socio-economic challenges, adoption rates among Africans remain low due to cultural beliefs and a lack of reliable information. This qualitative study examined the Tsonga traditional beliefs and customs regarding child adoption, focusing on cultural values, practices, and spiritual obligations. The study sample was drawn from Mopani district in Limpopo province. Data was collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 2 social workers and 17 community members, along with a focus group discussion with traditional council members, provided rich data. Thematic analysis, supported by Atlas ti-7 software, was used to analyze the findings. The results reveal that Tsonga adoption prioritizes kinship, collective parenting, and adherence to traditions. Polygamy, guided by the husband's blessing, and birth rites ensure lineage continuity and ancestral acceptance. However, barriers such as inheritance restrictions, spiritual concerns, and taboos challenge the integration of adopted children, discouraging adoption from outside the culture. Domestic adoption is favored for preserving ancestral bonds and cultural identity. The study emphasizes the need for greater understanding of adoption processes to promote cultural harmony and community support. Key terms: Child, Adoption, Tsonga people, Beliefs, cultural practices |
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| 91 | Accepted | Accepted | Dr. | Smith | Sufran | sufran.smith@nwu.ac.za | Nwu | Practices of social workers managing sibling child sexual abuse cases in Free State, South Africa | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Background: Child protection social workers (CPSWs) managing sibling sexual abuse (SSA) cases are faced with uncertainty regarding intervention as guidelines are unavailable. While SSA has been internationally researched, the legal and cultural context differs in South Africa (SA). There is a gap in SA practice/literature pertaining to practice guidelines of CPSWs managing cases of SSA. Research was conducted to explore current practices of CPSWs managing SSA cases in the Free State, South Africa. Objective: To explore the current practices of CPSWs managing cases of SSA. Participants and setting: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten CPSWs in different child protection organisations (CPOs) in the Free State, South Africa. Methods: Qualitative descriptive study: Semi-structured interviews were conducted, followed by thematic analysis. Findings: In general, participants reported similar current practices in the management of SSA cases including the removal of the transgressor, the lack of guidelines available, as well as making use of current legislation such as the Children’s Act 38 of 2005 although not providing specific guidelines for CPSWs. Findings correlate with international literature where it was also found that the transgressor will rather be removed and that guidelines needed to be developed for CPOS managing cases of child SSA. Conclusions: Our findings align with existing international literature, including ensuring the safety of the victims, removing the transgressor, and holistic service delivery. Participants noted challenges, including victims becoming transgressors and facing a multitude of problems including depression due to the prohibition of therapy during the criminal trial. Findings also conclude that participants are unsure what to do and make use of various intervention models. This highlights a gap in both practice and legislation/policy in South Africa, as there are no clear guidelines available for CPSWs. |
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| 92 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Makhubele | Meshack ownchei | owncheimeshack@yahoo.com | University limpopo | exploring Perception of social workers of the utilisation of Employee Assistance Program services in greater giyani municipality, limpopo province. | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Exploring perception of social workers of the utilisation of Employee Assistance Programme services in Greater Giyani Municipality, Limpopo Province 2 Authors: 1. Makhubele T.G Social Worker, Department of Social Development, Mopani District, Limpopo Province. 2. J.M Mokone Former Senior Lecturer, University of Limpopo, Faculty of Humanities, School of Social Sciences, Turfloop Campus. Abstract Social workers deal daily with vulnerable, marginalized, and abused clients, making Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) services vital for nurturing their emotional well-being. This study aimed to investigate social workers’ perceptions of EAP services in the Greater Giyani Municipality, Limpopo Province. The objectives were to assess their awareness of available EAP services and identify factors influencing their utilization. A qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through face-to-face interviews guided by a semi-structured interview schedule. Non-probability sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to select participants. An exploratory design served as the study’s blueprint, offering insights into how social workers perceive EAP services. Thematic analysis was utilized for data interpretation. Findings revealed that social workers were not utilizing available psychosocial services within the Department of Social Development. While most participants reported feeling the need for professional help at some point, they had never used the EAP. Concerns about confidentiality, lack of office space and resources, poor marketing, and doubts regarding the programme’s credibility were significant barriers to its use. The study concludes that social workers in the Greater Giyani Municipality have negative perceptions of EAP services, leading to their underutilization. These findings highlight the need for improved promotion, enhanced trust, and greater accessibility of EAP services to support social workers effectively. Keywords: Employee, Assistance Programme, perceptions, social workers and utilisation. |
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| 93 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Ms. | Mpapho | Onkabetse olorato | oloratompapho@gmail.com | Boitekanelo college | Healing the Wounds: Integrating Peacebuilding into Community-Based Gender-Based Violence Interventions in Botswana | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | 882 | ||
| 94 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Chukwuemerie | Chimbuzo | chimbuzoc@gmail.com | University of lagos | Urban Integration Challenges and Coping Strategies of IDPs: A Case Study from Lagos, Nigeria | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Internal displacement has led to an influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into Lagos, where they face housing, livelihood, cultural adaptation, and social exclusion challenges. This study examined the integration challenges and coping strategies of internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in Epe, Lagos State. A descriptive study was conducted guided by the push-pull, social capital, and resilience theories. Data were collected through in-depth and key informant interviews with 24 participants between 21st February and March 2, 2025. Snowball and convenience sampling were used in this study. Findings indicate that IDPs face frequent rent hikes, eviction threats, unstable informal work, and limited healthcare access. The study further identified that non-recognition and neglect from government relief programs and exclusion from political and social programs impact the well-being of IDPs. IDPs relied on social networks for financial and food assistance, occasional religious support, and self-employment in small-scale businesses and farming as some of the adopted coping mechanisms. Other coping strategies include language adaptation by learning Yoruba or pidgin English, relying on herbal medicine, and informal care from nurses when healthcare is inaccessible. Key informants stressed the need for inclusive policies involving local government leaders and further research on the underlying historical and ethnic tensions that impact the IDP integration across Nigeria. To enhance IDPs' integration and contribute to the “leave no one behind” agenda of the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals, this study recommends that social workers advocate for an international binding framework that ensures nations support the long-term stability and resilience of IDPs. Social work interventions should include policy advocacy, strengthening IDP support systems, development of social work internal displacement models, updated social work education, indigenous practice approaches, and social assistance programs that assist urban IDPs. Keywords: Internally Displaced Persons, urban integration, integration challenges, resilience, social work interventions, Sustainable Development Goals |
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| 95 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Mpapho | Onkabetse | oloratompapho@gmail.com | Boitekanelo college | Strengthening Teacher Education for Peace: A Comparative Analysis of Global Citizenship Education in Botswana and Zambia | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | This study explores the integration of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) within teacher education programs in Botswana and Zambia, with a focus on its potential to foster peace, social cohesion, and sustainable development. Grounded in the principles of transformative education, the research conducts a comparative analysis of national curricula, policy frameworks, and teacher training practices in both countries. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered through document analysis and key informant interviews with teacher educators, policymakers, and curriculum developers. The findings reveal both commonalities and context-specific challenges in the implementation of GCE, including limited pedagogical training, inadequate policy alignment, and gaps in teacher capacity development. Despite these challenges, promising practices such as community-based learning and values-oriented instruction, demonstrate the potential of GCE to empower teachers as agents of peace and global responsibility. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for enhancing teacher education programs through cross-country collaboration, curriculum reform, and sustained investment in peace-oriented pedagogies. This research contributes to ongoing efforts to localize global educational goals and strengthen education systems for more just and inclusive societies. Keywords: Global Citizenship Education (GCE), Teacher Education, Peace and Social Cohesion, Sustainable Development, Curriculum Reform. |
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| 96 | Accepted | Pending Review | Ms. | Hingoma | Gloria | gloriahingoma@gmail.com | The copperbelt university, kitwe, zambia. | Healing the wounds: Integrating Peacebuilding into community-Based Gender-Based Violence Interventions in Botswana | THEME 3: Policy and Advocacy for Peace building, Environmental and Social Justice | Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains one of the most urgent and deeply personal human rights challenges facing communities in Botswana. Beyond the immediate harm it causes to individuals particularly, women and girls. GBV disrupts families, fractures communities, and hinders national development. While government institutions and civil society have made important progress in addressing this issue, many interventions still focus on response rather than prevention. There is a growing recognition of the need to take a deeper, more transformative approach, one that addresses the root causes of violence and supports lasting peace. This paper explores how peacebuilding principles such as reconciliation, trauma healing, community dialogue, and restorative justice can be meaningfully integrated into GBV prevention and response efforts. Drawing from the lived experiences of survivors, insights from grassroots organizations, and voices within local communities, the paper shows how ideas of peace, justice, and gender are understood and negotiated at the community level. It also highlights the vital roles played by traditional leaders, educators, and young people in mediating conflict, challenging harmful norms, and creating safer, more inclusive spaces. The findings point to the value of peacebuilding not just as a conflict resolution tool, but as a way to foster healing, empower survivors, and prevent future violence. Integrating these approaches into GBV programming can strengthen community resilience, promote gender equity, and contribute to a more just and peaceful society. This work calls for a coordinated, culturally rooted strategy that aligns with Botswana’s Vision 2036 and global goals for peace, justice, and strong institutions. |
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| 97 | Accepted | Pending Review | Ms. | Beukes | Shanice murinique | 2020138471@ufs4life.ac.za | The university of the free state | Betz Factors revisited: Analysis of the impact of multiple role demands on women’s career development in academia at the University of the Free State. | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | This study will focus on utilising Betz’s (1993) key factors influencing women’s career development. Exploring how multiple role concerns, such as balancing work and family responsibilities, affect the career development of women in academia today highlighting any changes or persistent barriers. It is important to provide a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that women in academia experience, particularly within the South African context. By revisiting and applying Betz's framework of career development, the study will examine how factors such as gender, societal expectations, work-life balance, and institutional structures continue to influence women’s career advancement in academic settings. The theoretical framework that underpins the study is Critical Feminist Theory. Through the lens of critical feminist theory, one can analyse how intersecting systems of power shape and frequently impede women's advancement in academia within South African universities, emphasising the necessity of questioning institutional norms and promoting structural change.The research will be conducted through a qualitative approach, a narrative design focusing on personal stories and lived experiences and will use thematic content analysis. Given the historical and socio-cultural factors that shape South African universities, this research could offer valuable insights into how systemic barriers and gendered expectations impact women’s academic careers. This study could also provide a platform for advocating for structural changes in higher education institutions to create an environment that nurtures women’s professional growth, ensuring that they have equal opportunities to thrive in academia. By contributing to the broader discourse on gender equity in higher education, the study holds the potential to inform both local and international initiatives focused on gender empowerment, academic diversity, and inclusivity. | 889 | |
| 98 | Accepted | Pending Review | Prof. | Roestenburg | Wim | Wim.Roestenburg@nwu.ac.za | North west university | Exploring the Well-Being of Social Work Students in five South African Higher Education Institutions | THEME 4: Social Work Education, Transdisciplinarity and Curriculum Development | Social work students around the world face complex challenges that compromise their mental and emotional well-being, including financial stress, academic pressure, and secondary trauma exposure. In South Africa, these challenges are intensified by deep-rooted socio-economic inequalities, making targeted support essential for student wellness. This study investigates the well-being of social work students at five South African higher education institutions (HEIs), guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory (EST), which emphasizes the dynamic interaction between individual and environmental factors. Using a quantitative, cross-sectional design, data were collected from 236 students via the General Well-Being Schedule (GWBS). The research focused on six academic protective factors: access to IT and software, financial aid, accommodation arrangements, and both campus- and community-based support systems. The findings revealed high levels of distress, particularly among younger and middle-aged students. Notably, strong off-campus support networks significantly reduced symptoms of depression, while perceptions of institutional support were linked to better emotional regulation and overall wellness. These insights highlight the urgent need for age-sensitive and contextually appropriate interventions to strengthen student support structures. Improved access to reliable technology, financial resources, and both on- and off-campus psychosocial support services can enhance students’ resilience and well-being. For future social workers—who are expected to navigate complex social issues and provide care to vulnerable populations—strengthening these protective factors during their studies is not only beneficial but necessary. Tailored strategies that address the intersecting personal and systemic challenges students face can contribute meaningfully to their academic success and professional readiness. |
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| 99 | Accepted | Accepted | Mr. | Teko | Luvuyo | luvuyo.teko@up.ac.za | University of pretoria | Interventions directed towards male perpetrators in preventing Intimate Partner violence: A literature review. | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Intimate partner violence is a pervasive problem that has been noted globally and in South Africa. It is on the increase and continues to disproportionately affect women and girls, despite different prevention strategies availableIntimate Partner Violence include physical, psychological, emotional, economical, and sexual abuse with physical abuse being the most perpetrated form of IPV. There is a shift of focus to interventions directed at men in South Africa as supported by one of key pillars of the National Strategic Plan on Gender Based Violence and Femicide (NSPGBVF). Therefore, the aim of this paper is to explore and describe the interventions aimed at men who have committed IPV in South Africa and globally. This will be achieved through syntheses of available literature from 2015 to 2025 from several data bases such as Google Scholar, Taylor and Francis Online, Science Direct, PubMed, EBSCO, PsycInfo. Undertaking this review will seek to conceptualise and contextualise current interventions available for male perpetrators in addressing IPV, their effectiveness, and gaps within the interventions. Implications for practice will include key characteristics of interventions proven to be effective. This will provide a roadmap on what still needs to be improved in these interventions to reduce IPV and achieve the sustainable development goal of 16.1. of significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere. Recommendations for further research will also be considered. | 893 | |
| 100 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Claassens | Elmien | elmien.claassens@up.ac.za | University of pretoria | A hybrid approach to inclusive social work practice in South Africa | THEME 6: Main-streaming Digital and Assessment Tools in Social Work Practice | While the integration of technology into social work is not new, the imperative to ensure that such developments advance an inclusive and just society is increasingly urgent. Technology-supported services offer additional platforms for engaging vulnerable populations, but the digital divide exacerbates existing structural inequalities, often excluding those already marginalised due to limited connectivity, inadequate devices, or digital illiteracy. This study employed Fraser’s theory of social justice and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as complementary theoretical frameworks to conceptualise a hybrid approach to inclusive social work practice in South Africa. A mixed methods research design was used, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative phases. The qualitative phase involved semi-structured interviews with 22 social workers and managers from the Department of Social Development (DSD) and the National Association of Social Service Organisations (NACOSS). The quantitative phase drew on data collected through self-administered online questionnaires from 105 social workers and managers. The integrated data analysis triangulated statistical results and thematic patterns to identify key findings of inclusion and exclusion in technology-supported service delivery. Findings suggest that a hybrid model combining in-person and technology-supported approaches can promote inclusion but also highlight substantial barriers. These include gaps in digital literacy, limited technological infrastructure, and concerns around ethical practice, privacy, and confidentiality. The digital divide, shaped by broader socio-economic disparities, remains a critical barrier to equitable access. The study proposes a set of guidelines to support inclusive hybrid practice, encompassing ethical standards, organisational governance, social justice advocacy, intersectoral partnerships, and professional training. These recommendations highlight the need for both structural reform and practice-level innovation to ensure that digital transformation in social work serves as a vehicle for social inclusion rather than exclusion. | 894 | |
| 101 | Accepted | Accepted | Ms. | Ndlovo | Nomfundo | NdlovoN@unizulu.ac.za | University of zululand | Psycho-social challenges faced by learners at selected primary schools in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Vulnerable learners in primary schools often face a plethora of psychosocial challenges, which often impact on their performance. Globally, the number of vulnerable children in schools is increasing, with Sub-Saharan Africa reporting the highest prevalence. This study explores the psychosocial challenges faced by vulnerable children in schools, particularly orphaned and neglected children in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The study has been underpinned by the ecological systems theory, which provides an understanding of how different environmental, social, and individual factors affect the psychosocial wellbeing of vulnerable primary school learners. Guided by an interpretivist research paradigm, the researcher adopted a qualitative approach utilising exploratory and descriptive research designs. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 purposively selected school social workers from 21 primary schools within the Esikhaleni Senkosi Circuit. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings reveal maltreatment in forms of neglect, emotional and physical abuse, and bullying as prominent problems facing vulnerable school children. Other cited problems include financial constraints, malnutrition, lack of birth certificates and low self-esteem. Given the prominence of maltreatment, the study recommends that school social workers conduct regular home visits to monitor children's well-being. Additionally, the employment of full-time, school-based social workers is identified as a critical intervention to address these challenges effectively. This study is in line with the Sustainable Development Goal number 4: Quality Education, which advocates for creating supportive environments that nurture the mental and emotional growth of school learners. Key words: Psychosocial well-being, school social worker, vulnerable children, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
895 | |
| 102 | Pending Review | Pending Review | Ms. | Chukwuemerie | Chimbuzo | chimbuzoc@gmail.com | University of lagos, akoka, nigeria | Urban Integration Challenges and Coping Strategies of IDPs: A Case Study from Lagos, Nigeria | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Internal displacement has led to an influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into Lagos, where they face housing, livelihood, cultural adaptation, and social exclusion challenges. This study examined the integration challenges and coping strategies of internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in Epe, Lagos State. A descriptive study was conducted guided by the push-pull, social capital, and resilience theories. Data were collected through in-depth and key informant interviews with 24 participants between 21st February and March 2, 2025. Snowball and convenience sampling were used in this study. Findings indicate that IDPs face frequent rent hikes, eviction threats, unstable informal work, and limited healthcare access. The study further identified that non-recognition and neglect from government relief programs and exclusion from political and social programs impact the well-being of IDPs. IDPs relied on social networks for financial and food assistance, occasional religious support, and self-employment in small-scale businesses and farming as some of the adopted coping mechanisms. Other coping strategies include language adaptation by learning Yoruba or pidgin English, relying on herbal medicine, and informal care from nurses when healthcare is inaccessible. Key informants stressed the need for inclusive policies involving local government leaders and further research on the underlying historical and ethnic tensions that impact the IDP integration across Nigeria. To enhance IDPs' integration and contribute to the leave no one behind agenda of the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Goals, this study recommends that social workers advocate for an international binding framework that ensures nations support the long-term stability and resilience of IDPs. Social work interventions should include policy advocacy, strengthening IDP support systems, development of social work internal displacement models, updated social work education, indigenous practice approaches, and social assistance programs that assist urban IDPs. Keywords: Internally Displaced Persons, urban integration, integration challenges, resilience, social work interventions, Sustainable Development Goals |
896 | |
| 103 | Accepted | Accepted | Prof. | Boshoff | Pieter | pieter.boshoff@nwu.ac.za | North-west university | Psychosocial Allostatic Load among Nurses in a South African Private Hospital Group: Perceptions and Interventions: A Qualitative Study | THEME 2: Social Work and the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Hospital nursing is a demanding profession that often requires sustained high performance, resulting in elevated levels of psychosocial allostatic load, the cumulative “wear and tear” on the body and brain from chronic stress. Given the impact of workplace stress on nurse well-being, this study explored the prevalence of allostatic load and its effects on the psychosocial well-being of registered professional nurses employed by a South African private hospital group in Gauteng Province. It also aimed to identify nurses’ needs for psychosocial intervention programmes to mitigate these effects. A qualitative descriptive design was employed from a social work perspective. Data were collected through four focus group discussions with 23 purposively selected registered nurses. Thematic analysis guided the interpretation of findings. Results revealed that nurses experience varying levels of psychosocial allostatic load along a stress continuum. While many functioned under tolerable stress, a significant proportion showed signs of toxic stress, largely stemming from organisational pressures. Core themes included nurses’ understanding of work-related stress, personal stress responses, coping strategies, and a strong call for structured psychosocial support. This study highlights the significant burden of chronic stress in hospital nursing and the urgent need for intervention strategies that address both individual coping and systemic organisational stressors. It contributes to the broader discourse on healthcare worker well-being and reinforces the role of social work in developing tailored psychosocial interventions to support nurses in high-pressure environments. | 897 |