LAHORE: (Friday, November 17, 2023): Provincial Health Minister Dr Javed Akram said that social work education should not be limited to obtaining a degree but should be practically meant for human service. He was addressing the launching ceremony of first-ever ‘Social Work Field Practicum Manual’ by Punjab University Department of Social Work at Al Raazi Hall on Friday.
On this occasion, PU VC Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood, Chairperson Department of Social Work Dr Uzma Ashiq, Director General Social Welfare Mudassar Riaz Malik, Secretary Social Welfare Zahoor Hussain, Registrar Dr Ahmed Islam, senior analyst Salman Abid, Assistant Professor Muhammad Arshad Abbasi, representatives from various NGOs, faculty members and students were present. In his address, Dr Javed Akram said that our religion emphasizes social service. He said that we have to make people’s thinking and attitudes positive through education, for which students can play an active role. He said that social service sectors in Pakistan have to work together for social development. PU VC Dr Khalid Mahmood said that the social problems due to urbanization in the modern era can be solved only through humanitarian service. He said that the students of the social work department can resolve social issues through their hard work. He said that the introduced field work will be beneficial for the students in the future. Dr Uzma Ashiq said that Punjab University Social Work Department will continue to play a positive role for the betterment of the society. She said that in a few months, the department has taken many steps for expanding the job market of students, academic development, infrastructure improvement and strong relations with other institutions. Dr Muhammad Arshad Abbasi briefed the participants regarding the program.