In an effort to elevate the social work profession to an international level, the Thai Association of Social Work Professionals has partnered with Nazareth College of Arts and Sciences in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, to organize the Social Worker Exchange Program from January 12 to 18, 2568 (2025).
This initiative was designed to foster collaboration and professional growth between members of both organizations through seminars, conferences, field studies, and activities related to social work and welfare at local, national, and international levels. Participants included social work professionals and academics, featuring representatives from the Thai Association of Social Work Professionals, social workers, and faculty members from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prince of Songkla University (PSU):
- Asst. Prof. Nasarin Saesa, Chair of the Social Work Program
- Dr. Areena Charansan, Lecturer in the Bachelor of Social Work Program
- Asst. Prof. Dr. Jirachaya Jiawkok, Lecturer in the Bachelor of Arts in Social Development Program
Additionally, 12 representatives from the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI) joined the program, further strengthening the international network of social work professionals.
Throughout the exchange program, participants engaged in discussions on sustainable development aligned with the UN SDGs, community-based social work, general social work practices, and critical issues concerning children, youth, and the elderly. The program featured a range of activities, including seminars, conferences, and on-site fieldwork, aimed at developing knowledge and best practices for the social work profession.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone for the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, PSU, in establishing international networks and reinforcing the crucial role of social work academics in driving sustainable social development.
