During the second week of August 2017, the University of Venda’s Department of Social Work held an Oath taking ceremony to sworn second year Social Work students who are expected to start with their Work Integrated Learning (WIL). The Oath taking Ceremony took place at Univen Research Conference Centre.
Second year social work students together with UNIVEN and Social Development staff in group photo
The students are placed in a social work service rendering agencies for experiential learning. As part of the requirement of the programme endorsed by the professional body, South African Council of Social Service Professions (SACSSP), students who will be working in the health profession are required to take an oath which is based on the Social Work Code of Ethics. 86 students participated in the oath taking ceremony.
Dr Maria Mudimeli gracing the oath taking occasion
Dr Maria Mudimeli graced the occasion with a word of prayer. She said the book of Daniel from the bible speaks about the execellency. “Daniel never compromised his services and always showed loyality to his master.” She encouraged the second year students to be like Daniel and always strive for excellence.
Prof Mokgale Makgopa presenting his official opening and welcome speech
Prof Mokgale Makgopa, Dean of the School of Human and Social Sciences, said that the society we live in, is full of cracks which need someone to fill. He further emphasised that the importance of oath taking binds the students to adhere to the code of conduct and professionalism, both in the institution and in the work place. He highlighted that the dress code defines a person therefore the students should be presentable when they go for Work Integrated Learning.
Mr Thomani Gomba from the Department of Social Development during his presentation.
Mr Thomani Gomba, a Social Worker from the Department of Social Development emphasised on branding social work as a profession. He said that a brand makes the profession to be marketed. “Through the students’ conduct and hard work, social work profession can be on the map.” He further emphasised on the quality of service that should be rendered. “People’s adversities can be challenged through the quality of services they render because they leave a foot print for those who will follow,” he said. Mr Gomba’s talk was more on hard work, passion and commitment.
Dr David Mogorosi HOD of Social work presented on oath taking expectations
The HOD of Social Work, Dr Mogorosi addressed the students on the issue of oath taking which he highlighted more about the expectations of social work students in terms of behavior, conduct and adherence to code of ethics in the work place. He also highlighted that social work profession promotes social change, problem solving in human relationships and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance well-being.
“Principles of human rights and social justice are fundamental to social work. Most importantly, he emphasised more on the use of technology and social media to share or gossip about private matters or divulge information about clients. “Be careful about other people’s privacy,” he warned the students.
Ms Mmaphuti Mamaleka reading the Social Work pledge followed by students reading individually as a sign of commitment to the pledge.
Mr Tshilidzi Mmbadi, School Administrator of Human and Social Science signing oath taking certificates for students
Members of the School of Human and Social Sciences and Social Development staff members pose for a photo after the oath taking ceremony
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel.: (015) 962 8525
Date: 21 September 2017
