MALAWI: Catholic University Commemorates Social Work Day with Health Talks
Luke Bisani
Students and staff from the Department of Social Work at the Catholic University of Malawi commemorated World Social Work Day on Thursday this week by conducting mental health awareness talks for expectant mothers at St. Joseph Nguludi Mission Hospital.
Speaking after the commemoration, Head of the Department of Social Work, Joyce Chione Jere, said the initiative was part of the department’s outreach activities to celebrate the vital role social workers play in society.
“We chose to commemorate this day by reaching out to patients, specifically expectant mothers, through mental health talks and by sharing the little we had prepared with them,” she said.
Echoing her sentiments, Social Work alumna Clement Paul emphasized the importance of mental health support for pregnant women.
“Pregnant women go through many challenges, both internal and external. Hormonal changes, as well as social and community pressures, can affect their well-being. If these issues are not properly addressed, they may lead to depression and complications during pregnancy,” said Paul.
President of the Catholic University of Malawi Social Workers Association, Khumbo Macheko, commended the initiative, noting that it aligns with the core mandate of social work.
“This is part of our fieldwork as social workers. Our role is to support others by sharing our knowledge and skills,” said Macheko.
In addition to holding talks with expectant women, students and staff members from the university donated assorted items and cleaned up the area around the Hospital.
World Social Work Day is observed annually on the third Tuesday of March. The day recognizes the dedication and contributions of social workers worldwide while promoting social justice, human rights, and best practices in the profession.
This year’s commemoration was held on March 17, 2026, under the theme: “Co-building hope and harmony: A harambee call to unite a divided society.”
