By Jubril Jawando

Social work is a profession in which trained professionals are dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals and communities work through challenges they face daily. Social work is one of the areas of study that gives meaning and significance to the field of sociology in contemporary times. That is why Elton Mayo, in the human relations school of thought, has aptly argued that any society without feelings is sick.

However, Social Work Day is a brilliant moment to stop, breathe, and recognise the incredible work happening across adult social care. So much of what we do as Social Workers is not loud or visible, but it changes lives every day, and that is something to celebrate. A big part of our practice has always been about social justice and advocating for people and communities.

Every day, we stand alongside people who face barriers, discrimination, or disadvantage, and we work to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are respected. Whether we are challenging unfair systems, advocating for better opportunities, or helping someone navigate a moment of crisis, we are pushing for a fairer and more inclusive society.

On the 17th of Last month, we celebrated Social Work Day with a powerful theme: “Co-building hope and harmony: A Harambee call to unite a divided society”. As we gathered, we acknowledged the incredible work that we do every day as social workers, advocates, and change-makers. Harambee, a Swahili word meaning “let’s pull together”, echoes the spirit of unity and collective effort that is at the heart of social work. In a world where divisions seem to be growing, we are reminded that our strength lies in our shared humanity.

We are not just working with individuals, families, or communities – we are working with the fabric of society, thread by thread, person by person. As social workers, we are the architects of hope, building bridges across chasms of inequality, marginalisation, and injustice. We are the voices for the voiceless, the advocates for the vulnerable, and the catalysts for change. Our work is a testament to the power of empathy, compassion, and solidarity.

But let us be real – it is not always easy. The weight of the world’s problems can be overwhelming, and the journey can be long and winding. There are days when hope seems like a distant memory, and harmony feels like a distant dream. Yet, here we are, showing up, showing care, and showing that another way is possible.

That is what Harambee is all about – pulling together, supporting one another, and recognizing that our individual struggles are connected to the collective struggle. It is about acknowledging that when one person suffers, we all suffer, and when one person thrives, we all thrive. The Social Work Day celebration allowed us to recognise the impact of our work, the victories, big and small. Let us acknowledge the resilience, courage, and determination that define us.
Also, let us also recommit ourselves to the work ahead. We must recommit to challenging systems that perpetuate inequality, amplifying marginalised voices, and creating spaces where everyone can live with dignity. The theme of co-building hope and harmony is a call to action.

It is an invitation to collaborate, to innovate, and to push boundaries. It is a reminder that we are not alone in this journey – we are in this together. So, let us answer the Harambee call. Let us co-build hope and harmony, thread by thread, person by person. Let us show the world what it means to live with empathy, compassion, and solidarity. And let us ensure that everyone, everywhere can live with the dignity and respect they deserve.

As we move forward, let us remember that every small act counts, every conversation matters, and every effort adds up. We are co-building something beautiful, something that will outlast us. And when we look back, we will know that we did our part to make the world a little more just, a little more equitable, and a little more loving.
Professor Jawando is the head of the Department of Sociology. He delivered this piece originally as opening remarks on the occasion of the 2026 Social Work Day Colloquium held at the Lagos State University on March 24.