The Third National Forum for Social Workers commenced yesterday in Qatar, under the theme "Professional Responsibility and Social Impact." The two-day event is organized by the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF) and takes place under the patronage of HE Minister Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi. It brings together social work experts, specialists, and practitioners to discuss current challenges and future directions in the profession.
HE Undersecretary of MSDF Khalifa bin Issa al-Kubaisi emphasized the importance of social work as a profession that carries a deep responsibility towards individuals, families, and society. He highlighted the need for knowledge, skills, ethical commitment, and adaptability to evolving social needs. Al-Kubaisi noted that the ministry prioritizes developing professional practices and enhancing social workers’ capabilities in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030, the Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030), and the Ministry’s Strategy (2025-2030). He further explained that the forum’s theme underscores that professional responsibility extends beyond duties to achieving measurable positive outcomes for individuals and families.
Nasser al-Mughaishi, Director of the Community Development Department at the ministry, described the forum as a national platform that facilitates the exchange of knowledge and the review of local and international practices. He said these exchanges aim to improve the quality of social services and transform professional recommendations into sustainable initiatives. The program addresses key topics such as the role of professional responsibility, community partnerships for sustainable development, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in social work.
Sessions during the forum have focused on several critical areas. The first session, "From Legislation to Impact — Professional Responsibility in Social Work," explored how legal frameworks and professional standards can be applied practically to enhance the effectiveness of social work and its societal influence. Discussions included translating legislation into actionable measures to strengthen the profession and its impact on communities.
The second session centered on "Partnerships and Sustainable Development," highlighting the importance of coordination among institutions involved in social work. It underscored the role of effective, lasting partnerships in creating initiatives that support sustainable social development and improve social service delivery.
Another session, "Artificial Intelligence in Social Practices and the Future of Social Work," examined how AI technologies can be employed to advance social work practices and better meet individual and family needs. It also stressed the necessity of balancing technological advancements with the preservation of human values and ethics in social services.
Throughout the forum, roundtable discussions addressed vocational training, the development of an electronic platform for social workers, institutional integration, recruitment of qualified professionals, and the establishment of clear career pathways.
The Ministry of Social Development and Family reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the social work profession by developing policies and regulations that ensure high-quality standards, regulate professional practice, and strengthen the sector’s contribution to society. The forum aims to promote professional growth, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and support the delivery of more effective and sustainable social services to meet the evolving needs of individuals, families, and communities in Qatar.