LASU Holds Maiden Social Work Colloquium, Pushes for Unity and Inclusive Society

Lagos State University has hosted its first-ever Social Work Day Colloquium, bringing together academics, practitioners, students, and policymakers to address societal divisions and promote inclusive development.

The event, organised by the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, took place on March 24, 2026, at the Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, Ojo campus. It was themed “Co-Building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.”

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Oseni Afisi, described the theme as both timely and strategic, emphasising the role of academic engagements in driving intellectual discourse and cross-sector collaboration. She noted that social work goes beyond caregiving to include advocacy, inclusion, and collective responsibility for societal well-being, adding that the university remains committed to advancing programmes that contribute to human development and national growth.

Speaking on behalf of the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Olufemi Lawal, Sylvester Akhaine underscored the importance of social work as a discipline that provides direction and support for communities. He stressed that hope must be translated into action through deliberate interventions by professionals in the field.

The Head of the Department of Sociology, Jubril Jawando, described social work as a critical profession dedicated to assisting vulnerable populations. He highlighted the role of social workers in advocating for justice and amplifying marginalised voices, while calling for increased recognition of their contributions despite systemic challenges.

Chairperson of the Planning Committee, Afolake Otenaike, noted that the colloquium’s theme reflects the urgency of unity, collaboration, and shared responsibility in tackling social inequalities. She called for stronger partnerships among stakeholders to advance peace, inclusion, and community empowerment.

The Chairman of the Occasion, Babatunde Hunpe, represented by Comrade Amosu Akeem, commended the initiative, describing it as a timely response to growing social tensions. He urged students and young professionals to embrace roles as problem-solvers and bridge-builders, emphasising values such as empathy, integrity, and collaboration.

A panel session led by James Ayangunna of the University of Ibadan examined practical approaches to fostering unity in a divided society. Discussions centred on self-awareness, ethical leadership, inclusive community development, and conflict resolution, alongside the role of educators in shaping socially responsible citizens.

The panel also explored the contributions of medical social workers in patient empowerment and reviewed interventions across sectors such as youth development, family support, and healthcare services. Participants highlighted ongoing efforts within Lagos State to strengthen youth empowerment, family stability, and child protection systems.

The colloquium concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing the “Harambee” spirit of collective action beyond the university, positioning social work as a catalyst for sustainable social cohesion and national development.