PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORK ASSOCIATIONS IN AFRICA: A MIRROR OF HARSH REALITIES OR BEACONS OF HOPE?

Abstract

Professional social work associations offer opportunities to network with other social work professionals, provide access to training opportunities for professional development, and form part of a representative voice for the social work profession. In this editorial of the 60th volume of Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, we raise awareness of the Association of Schools of Social Work in Africa (ASSWA) and Social Work Month. Specifically, we reflect on whether professional associations of social workers should mirror scepticism, merely acknowledge existing realities, or foster positive endeavours for the future.