Guwahati: The government of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) is stepping up its efforts to build social welfare schemes by plugging policy loopholes and enhancing grassroots implementation. While addressing the first-ever Social Work Conclave hosted by India Awaz Foundation, Wilson Hasda, BTR Executive Member stressed the need for expert intervention to push effective social transformation.
Government’s Role in Strengthening Social Security
While Hasda acknowledged the government’s continuous efforts in implementing social security schemes to enhance livelihoods, he also identified stark gaps and inequalities hampering effective outreach.
"We need more professional social workers to bridge these gaps and ensure that government initiatives truly benefit those in need," said Hasda during an interview with Business North East (BNE).
Highlighting BTR's proactive approach, Hasda revealed Chief Executive Member Pramod Boro warmly welcomed the conclave proposal. "He forthwith offered support for this event, seeing its potential to reach professional social workers and young minds in addressing social disparities," said Hasda.
Addressing the Academia-Industry Gap
The conclave highlighted the gap between academics and real-world social work. Responding to why most young professionals are unwilling to work outside of regular office hours, confining their involvement in vital grassroots programs, Hasda expressed professionals must break out of their comfort zones.
"Social work is all about commitment and flexibility. Restricting oneself to fixed working hours goes against the nature of the profession," said the BTR Executive Member.
He also attributed Pramod Boro's leadership to continuously making efforts to link professionals with ground realities. "BTR has been working day and night to bridge the gap between the marginalised communities and the governance, making sure that welfare policies are not theoretical but implemented on the ground," confirmed Hasda.
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Future Plans: Institutional Collaborations for Social Welfare Training
Responding to queries about specialised courses for social work professionals, Hasda referenced insights shared by a UNICEF representative, who emphasised the need for Individual Social Responsibility (ISR) beyond corporate social responsibility (CSR).
“Our curriculum needs to evolve with current demands. Updating educational programs to foster social commitment is imperative,” stated Hasda.
With BTR’s commitment to empowering social workers and promoting an inclusive model of welfare, the conclave is a step in the direction of institutionalising sustainable change. The collaborative initiative of the government with educational establishments and professionals has the potential to revolutionise social welfare mechanisms within the region, leading towards a more equitable future.
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