On 13 March 2025, Dr Krishna Athal had the privilege of attending a Roundtable Workshop on “Bridging the Skills Gaps in Social Work” at Polytechnics Mauritius. The event gathered professionals, NGOs, and stakeholders in the social work sector to discuss the challenges faced in the industry and explore innovative solutions to address skill gaps.
Welcome Address by Mr. Roshan Seebaluck
The workshop commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Roshan Seebaluck, Manager of the Centre for Innovation, Professional Development, and Incubation (CIPDI). He provided an insightful introduction to Polytechnics Mauritius, outlining its journey from inception to its current status as a leading institution offering a wide range of professional courses. He emphasised the role of Polytechnics in equipping students with the necessary skills to excel in various fields, including social work.
Presentation on Social Entrepreneurship by Dr. Krishna Athal
Following the welcome address, Dr. Krishna Athal, Executive Director of YUVA, delivered an engaging presentation on social work. He highlighted the need for NGOs to generate their own revenue rather than solely relying on government grants and sponsorships.
Dr. Athal shared practical examples from YUVA, showcasing successful self-sustaining initiatives that have been effectively implemented. His insights sparked thought-provoking discussions on how NGOs can build financial independence while maintaining their core social missions.
Program Presentation by Mrs. Narvada Neckched
After a brief tea break, the session resumed with a program presentation by Mrs. Narvada Neckched, Research Officer at CIPDI. She provided an overview of training programs and skill development initiatives available for professionals in the social work sector.
The presentation highlighted new educational opportunities that can help bridge the skill gaps and enhance the effectiveness of social workers in Mauritius.
Concluding Remarks and Networking Cocktail
The workshop concluded with remarks from representatives of various NGOs, who shared their perspectives on the discussions and expressed their commitment to adopting innovative strategies in social work.
The event wrapped up with a networking cocktail, allowing participants to connect, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations for the future.
Key Takeaways from the Workshop:
- The need for NGOs to become financially self-sustainable.
- Skill development programs play a crucial role in enhancing the social work sector.
- Collaboration between educational institutions and NGOs can help bridge skill gaps effectively.
- Networking and sharing best practices are essential for the growth and impact of social work initiatives.
The roundtable workshop at Polytechnics Mauritius provided a valuable platform for stakeholders in the social work sector to come together, exchange knowledge, and explore solutions for a more sustainable and impactful future.
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