THE University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), through its School of Behavioural Sciences, Humanities & Law, successfully hosted its social work symposium under the theme, ‘Reimagining social work: Justice, solidarity and shared responsibility’ on March 26, in observance of International Social Work Month.

Held at UCC’s Worthington Avenue campus, the symposium was presented as a practice-oriented forum for social work students and was geared towards highlighting the critical role of social workers in advancing social justice, human rights, and community well-being.

The event brought together students, faculty, policymakers and practitioners for an engaging programme that examined the role of social work in advancing justice, strengthening communities, and promoting shared responsibility in Jamaica and beyond.

Sharing remarks on the significance of the symposium, UCC President Professor Colin Gyles underscored the importance of creating spaces where critical social issues can be examined through both academic inquiry and practical engagement. He noted that the forum reflected the university’s broader mission to equip students and stakeholders with the insight, empathy and sense of shared responsibility needed to confront complex social realities.

“This forum calls for a re-examination of how we engage with some of the most pressing social issues of our time and how we, collectively, can contribute to meaningful and sustainable solutions,” he stated.

Guest speaker Donovan Williams, minister of state in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, expressed appreciation for the forum, which emphasises accountability in the practice of social solidarity.

Highlighting national programmes that focus on the well-being of vulnerable groups, Williams noted, “Justice must be treated as a foundation, not an aspiration”. Speaking on the need for interventions and human connection, he added that “…in social protection, justice is reflected not only in outcomes, but in experience – how people are treated when they seek help”.

Reflecting on the commemorative symposium, Dean of the School of Behavioural Sciences, Humanities & Law, Dr Eleasia Charles, remarked, “This symposium has created an important space for reflection, learning, and action within the field of social work and has reinforced the need for professionals to reimagine how responses should be delivered in the face of complex social challenges”.

The programme also featured presentations from Acting Permanent Secretary Dione Jennings, who addressed the topic of transforming lives through policy and intervention, as well as social work practicum presentations on family counselling, forgiveness, and culturally reflective performances from students.

Dr Eleasia Charles, dean of the School of Behavioural Sciences, Humanities and Law, speaks at the forum.