Developmental Social Work and the Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

The main thrust of this article concerns the potential for the social work profession to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which overlap with developmental social work, specifically with respect to poverty and inequalities in South Africa. Although developmental social work practice may attempt to tackle the structural causes of poverty and inequality, relatively few studies appear to have been conducted to evaluate the contribution of this approach to attaining SDGs. The article draws from contemporary available literature and documents and the author’s observations pertaining to developmental social work and the role which it can play in attaining SDGs in the context of present-day South Africa. The review revealed the potential for developmental social work to make a meaningful contribution to attaining SDGs and the factors which could continue to hinder developmental social work practice, thereby making it difficult for SDGs.

Nexus between Issue of Environmental Pollution and the Urban Population: Evidence of Economic Growth in Indonesia

“…It was in line with what was conveyed by (Fetahi-Vehapi et al, 2015;Frankel & Romer, 1999) that CO 2 emissions are related to a country's production and trade. Carbon emissions, in this case, are correlated with the intensity of economic activity in a country, especially developing countries (Muleya, 2020). In some instances, trade liberalization policies can minimize air pollutants that cause relatively high gas emissions, such as particulates and sulfur dioxide.…”

Technological Advancements in African Social Work: Implications for U.S. Practice

“…Social work in Africa is confronted with a unique blend of challenges and opportunities, deeply influenced by the continent's diverse socio-economic and cultural landscapes. The expansion of developmental social work in Southern and East Africa, as explored by Muleya (2020), reflects the creativity and enthusiasm of social work educators in embracing developmental goals, despite the constraints of available resources. This trend is indicative of a broader movement in African social work towards innovative approaches that address local needs.…”

“…This trend is indicative of a broader movement in African social work towards innovative approaches that address local needs. Muleya's (2020) discussion on the potential of social work in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa highlights the profession's capacity to tackle structural causes of poverty and inequality. This approach is aligned with the broader developmental agenda in Africa, positioning social work as a key player in sustainable development.…”

Transforming Social Work Field Education

“…For instance, some scholars are delving into the history of development social work practice in Africa (Mamphiswana & Noyoo, 2000). Other scholars are focusing on the conceptualization of developmental social work practice, while others draw attention to the relevance and conceptualization of developmental social work practice in Africa (Muleya, 2020). A growing number of studies are exploring ways in which development social work competencies are being promoted through social work theory and field education in African universities (Hochfeld et al, 2009).…”

“…The approach also equips students with critical social work skills, such as community organizing and empowerment. Hence, development social work practice is claimed to be aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which aims to facilitate human development in Africa (Muleya, 2020).…”