The Department of Social Work held its annual oath taking ceremony on Monday, 16th October 2023 at the Jakes Gerwel Hall - an event that has not happened in person since COVID-19. The excitement from students was palpable.

Programme Director, Mr Mohamed Redau Safodien, a social work lecturer, announced as part of the formal oath taking ceremony: “Students are required by law to register as students of social work in their second year.

This event signifies that registration status, and their recognition by the council as stipulated by section 19 of the Social Services Professions Act 110 of 1978.”

The oath is a significant step for the Department of Social Work as well as the profession. It is a symbolic commitment and promise to act ethically in pursuit of serving communities in various areas troubling society.

Professor Glynis Dykes of the department welcomed the students to the profession. “I congratulate you on your journey thus far. The guidance and lessons from your lecturers, supervisors and administration staff are commendable. Please do remember, each one's journey is unique towards the cultivation of your academic career,” said Prof Dykes.

She emphasised that social work is a unique career that seeks professionals to be responsible. She said it carries high-risk and requires reflection, accountability and ethics. Professionals always need to be open to learning and accepting new experiences presented by the working environment. 

Quinton Arendse, Director of the Department of Social Department, and an alumnus of the University of the Western Cape and the department, was the keynote speaker. His address focused on the changing dynamics of ethics as circumstances or challenges of social work practice change every day.

Jasmine Dirkse, aka “The Coloured Prodigy”, recited her poem entitled, The Stereotype of the Coloured Child, which touched on her life experiences.

Second-year student Jabulile Gladile also sang at the event. The students will be issued with a SACSSP registration certificate.

The event was also a milestone for Mr Asandile Mandlana, who 10 years ago was a student taking his oath to the profession and now is a lecturer in the Department of Social Work. He paid gratitude to those who made the special event possible.