SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND HWSETA TO HONOUR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PRACTITIONERS

• The Department of Social Development, in collaboration with HWSETA, is set to honour Community Development Practitioners in a graduation ceremony.

• Stakeholders include the South African Council for Social Service Professionals and various education and training authorities.

• The ceremony recognises practitioners who have completed their Community Development Practice at NQF Level 5, offering them opportunities for career advancement and employment.

Community Development Practitioners play a crucial role in transforming the living conditions of impoverished and vulnerable communities, particularly in rural and township areas.

In recognition of their dedication and contribution, the Department of Social Development is set to honour Community Development Practitioners in a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, February 21, in collaboration with the Health and Welfare Sector Education Training Authority (HWSETA) in Worcester, Western Cape.

This ceremony, a collaborative effort between various stakeholders including the South African Council for Social Service Professionals, aims to professionalise Community Development Practice. With the participation of entities like HWSETA, ETDPSETA, and Higher Education Institutions such as the University of Western Cape, University of Free State, and the University of Johannesburg, the event seeks to recognise practitioners who have completed their Community Development Practice at NQF Level 5.

Amidst high levels of unemployment, particularly affecting the youth, the graduation serves not only as a recognition ceremony but also as a platform for graduates to pursue employment opportunities and advance their careers with the acquired certificates. To date, 555 Community Development Practitioners have graduated nationwide, with the final cohort of 26 graduates hailing from the Western Cape.