“It takes a village.” This was the underlying sentiment as the University of Fort Hare’s Department of Psychology, Social Work, and Criminology recently gathered at the East London Campus to honour several organisations that have partnered with the department in shaping the next generation of social workers.
Recognising the immense importance of the social work profession, one that stands at the forefront of community wellbeing, social justice, and human dignity, the Department paid tribute to the partner organisations that make Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) possible. These agencies, NGOs, government departments, welfare institutions, and community organisations provide the vital bridge between theory and practice, ensuring that students are not only educated but also equipped to serve.
According to the Department’s Fieldwork Coordinator, Dr Brenda Mandlazi, over the years, these partners have consistently opened their workspaces, shared their expertise, and stretched their capacities to mentor UFH Social Work students. “Their dedication to guiding, supporting, and nurturing young practitioners reflects the very values at the heart of the profession.” Their commitment mirrors the ethos of social work itself, grounded in compassion, advocacy, and service. For that, we honour you,” she said.
Dr Mandlazi highlighted that these partnerships are central to UFH’s mission of producing industry-ready graduates who are academically sound, ethically grounded, and capable of delivering meaningful impact from day one.
“The ceremony was the department’s resounding message of gratitude to these partner organisations to say, we see them, we value them, and we are profoundly thankful for the indispensable role they play in shaping the future of the social work profession,” said Dr Mandlazi.