The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Cordillera signed a memorandum of agreement with Saint Louis University that would allow DSWD personnel earn a degree in Social Work.
The MOA provides DSWD will encourage its personnel to enroll in the Bachelor’s Degree Program in Social Work under SLU’s School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (Stela).
The interested personnel will be issued a waiver signifying the agency’s permission for them to enroll in the degree. The DSWD will also ensure compliance with the requirements set by the university.
SLU meanwhile will be create a special program for students from the DSWD, which includes crediting of courses from their previous degree programs and evaluating the personnel’s field experiences for possible work equivalency in the professional development activities for Academic Year 2021-2022.
To accommodate the full-time work schedule of students, the MOA also provides SLU will harmonize the class schedules for a more conducive learning and working arrangement.
The distance learning education program modality or online classes will be applied with evening and Saturday classes as possible options.
In terms of practicum, SLU will define special field practicum programs that will give merit to the work experiences of students especially those that are relevant to social work practice.
DSWD-Cordillera Director Arnel B. Garcia said it is important that those working at the agency must have an educational background in Social Work.
“With the Mandanas ruling, it is important that we get to have more social workers in the field that could help in the delivery and implementation of social protection programs and services especially in our region,” Garcia said.
Garcia added he is honored to have initiated the partnership with SLU, as it may pave the way for other universities to follow suit.
SLU President, Rev. Fr Gilbert Sales said the university will do its part in ensuring that the students will receive quality education.
The MOA signing was also graced by DSWD Human Resource Management and Development Division OIC Chief Ronilo R. Flores and Regional Executive Assistant Sachi A. Sy and SLU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Roberto M. Arguelles; External Relations, Media and Communications Director, Dr. Mary Grace P. Carrido; and Stela associate deans, Dr. Danilo S. Alterado and Dr. Teresita D. Ignacio. – Lorillie R. Gonzales
April 24, 2024
