Social Workers on Sensitization Tour to ‘Break Barriers’ in Oyo State

As the world marks the Social Work month themed ‘Social Work Breaks Barrier’, Members of the Nigerian Association of Students Social Workers, Post Graduate Studies, University of Ibadan chapter have embarked on a sensitization and advocacy tour to enlighten residents of Oyo states on the role of social workers in the society. 

The students, who appeared on the radio program ‘Kilatise’ on 32FM 94.9 Ibadan on Monday spoke extensively on the work of social workers in helping victims of domestic violence, sexual harassment and any form of violence seek succor in appropriate quarters like registered care organizations and government agencies.  

Ojuade Adefehintola, a member of the association and postgraduate student of the University of Ibadan, disclosed that “Social Work deals with interactions with people and advocating for what they need, social work can be described as a helping profession and they serve as a bridge between the citizens pointing them to the right direction to getting required care or advocating for their cause”. 

Another member, Damilola Olokede, lent his thoughts on practical ways in which social workers aid the vulnerable in society, particularly women and children.  

He said, “social workers help the vulnerable, the women and children. To achieve equity in society, there is a need for empowerment. Social workers engage in advocacy for women to participate in power (and decision-making positions) as well as for children who are usually victims of domestic violence”.  

Mrs Adefehintola further hinted at legal means of seeking redress for victims of domestic violence and other forms of discrimination in the home or outside the home.  

She said, “There are departments under the government agencies aside that deal with gender-based violence, aside the ministry of women affairs and social inclusion, there is a department under the ministry of justice that deals with gender-based violence open to anyone to lodge complains in areas of abuse, marginalization” 

As part of outreach plans, members of the association are expected to make a stop at rehabilitation centres, and homes for disabled children as well as hold a media parley to create public awareness on breaking barriers in Oyo state.