(Leia esta notícia em português)
The first National Conference of Social Workers in Guinea-Bissau was held on May 23-24, 2024, at the ENA Conference Hall. Organised by the Guinean Association of Social Workers (AGAS), the event brought together 98 social workers under the theme “Path, Challenges, and Prospects” to discuss and evaluate the professional practice of social workers in the country.
President of AGAS, Mr. Ussumane Embaló, inaugurated the conference with a powerful speech emphasising the significance of this event for the social work community. “This conference marks a pivotal moment for social workers in Guinea-Bissau. It is a platform for us to reflect on our journey, address the challenges we face, and chart a course for the future. Together, we can elevate the profession and ensure that our work continues to promote social justice and human rights,” said Mr. Embaló.
The conference featured several keynote speakers and panelists, including international representatives. Discussions covered various topics, including the historical journey of social work in Guinea-Bissau, social work and human rights, and the role of social workers in the country’s development.
IFSW Africa President Oluwatoni Adeleke commented “I congratulate the social workers of Guinea-Bissau for successfully conducting their first national conference. This significant achievement reflects your dedication to advancing social work and promoting social welfare in your country. Your efforts are an inspiration to the global community.
The conference concluded with a set of recommendations aimed at strengthening the profession, including the establishment of an official headquarters for AGAS, promoting transparency in reporting activities, holding annual conferences, and creating institutional partnerships. The participants expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing social work in Guinea-Bissau.
Read the full report here: Portuguese (original) | English (translation)