On Friday, 23rd May 2025, the School of Social Work, under the auspices of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, hosted a graduation ceremony for its third batch of students and officially launched the Diploma in Social Work program.
The ceremony saw the graduation of 60 students.
In her keynote address, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, elaborated on the crucial role social workers play in Ghana’s national development.
She stated that the Government of Ghana, under the leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, is committed to empowering social workers through initiatives such as expanding and resourcing social services, recruiting and training social workers nationwide, and upgrading institutions like the School of Social Work into centers of excellence.
The Sector Minister congratulated the graduates for choosing to dedicate their lives to serving the vulnerable, standing up for justice, and holding together the social fabric of the country.
She encouraged them to let their training guide them and their hearts lead them in their field of work.
Addressing the graduates, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Afisah Zakariah, announced that the School of Social Work, under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, will be offering a Diploma in Social Work, which will be affiliated with the University of Ghana.
She charged the graduates to exhibit professionalism wherever they find themselves in order to support the vulnerable, the needy, and the marginalized.
The Deputy Country Representative for UNICEF, Mr. Fiachra McAsey, in a solidarity message, reaffirmed UNICEF’s support for the School of Social Work and extended congratulatory messages to the graduates.
Speaking at the event, the course representative, Madam Esther Asante, expressed gratitude to the government, the Minister, MoGCSP, and the School of Social Work for their support.
She reflected on the graduates’ journey, highlighting the importance of empathy, evidence-based practice, and a belief in the dignity of every Ghanaian.
The launch of the Diploma in Social Work program marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its social service workforce.
The program is expected to produce professionals capable of responding to the complex needs of vulnerable populations and contributing to the building of a more inclusive and compassionate society.
At the end of the ceremony, the graduates were awarded their certificates.
Also present at the event was Mr. Bryan Tsikpor, a representative from the Office of the Head of Local Government Service.
