Hon. Aya Benjamin Warille addresses the audience at the launch of the social workforce assessment, highlighting the importance of strengthening social services for community well-being.
Juba, South Sudan – October 9, 2024 – In a significant move to bolster the social welfare system, the Minister of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, Hon. Aya Benjamin Warille, has officially launched a comprehensive capacity assessment of the social work force. This initiative aims to evaluate and enhance the skills and capabilities of social workers across the nation.
The assessment will entail a thorough examination of social workers’ current competencies and operational capacities, pinpointing areas that require further training and resources. The goal is to ensure that social workers are well-equipped to support vulnerable populations and improve the overall effectiveness of social services.
Speaking at the launch event, the minister emphasized the importance of this initiative for strengthening social welfare infrastructure. The World Bank and the government of South Sudan have signed an agreement worth $70 million to implement a project that aims to empower women and girls while also strengthening the ministry of gender. This project comprises four components, each playing a vital role in achieving our mandate and development objectives,” the Minister stated.
This assessment is a crucial step toward building a more robust and responsive social service system. By understanding the strengths and gaps within our social work force, develop targeted training programs and provide the necessary resources to enhance their capabilities.
At least 450 members of the Ministry’s human resource force are expected to benefit from the initiative, and the findings will inform the creation of capacity development plans. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance the effectiveness of social services and ensure that social workers are well-prepared to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
The launch of this assessment marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to improve social welfare services in South Sudan, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting its most vulnerable citizens.
With funding from the World Bank Group, the ministry is implementing the South Sudan Women’s Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP). Hold the Child, in partnership with the Christian Agency for Peace and Development (CAPaD), and the University of Juba is conducting the assessment on behalf of the ministry.