University of Namibia

The University of Namibia (UNAM) Social Work Department, marked the World Social Work Day on Tuesday, 20 March, by hosting a social interaction session with the elderly at the Katutura Old Age Home.

Running under the theme, ‘Promoting Community and Environmental Sustainability’, this was an opportunity for social workers, and the social service sector, to celebrate their achievements, as well as to raise awareness of the important role that social workers play in the lives of vulnerable families and communities. More so, it served as a timely reminder of the profound goodness in humanity, which is sometimes forgotten - maybe a little too easily at times.

Addressing the modest gathering at the Katutura Old Age Home, which was hosted in close collaboration with the Namibia Social Workers Association (NASWA), UNAM lecturer in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Esther Muinjangue, was keen to recognise the importance of the elderly in society.

“Some of you may have raised the doctors, lawyers and teachers in our society. Some of you maybe even took part in the liberation struggle in different ways, as counsellors,” she stressed. “So, we have to truly appreciate your part in the social development of our country.”

The Manager of the Home, Mr Poloana, conceded that the Association is playing a collective role, especially with regards to taking care of the elderly. He gave reference of how the city of Windhoek “noted a need to assist senior citizens who are disadvantaged”, subsequently giving birth to the Katutura Old Age Home in 1972.

Harold, a beneficiary at the home, applauded the social workers’ dedication towards the elderly. “On behalf of everyone, I would like to truly thank you all for making this day and place special,” he said.