Annual Child Protection Review Meeting

Introduction:

The Annual Child Protection Review Meeting, organized by UNICEF and the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development, took place on the 15th and 16th of November 2023 at the prestigious Palms Hotel inside MIA Mogadishu, Somalia. The event brought together key stakeholders, experts, members from the Federal Members States-FMS, Academia and practitioners in the field of child protection to discuss and review the progress made in safeguarding children’s rights in the country.

The Department of Sociology & Social Work at Somali National University:

The Department of Sociology & Social Work at the Somali National University, the only publicly owned university in the country, had the privilege of participating in this significant event. Led by the esteemed Head of the Department, Abdirahman M. Dahie, along with the presence of a lecturer and Deputy Head of the Department, Abdinasir Abdullahi, the department showcased its remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of social work education.

Highlighting Achievements:

During the Annual Child Protection Review Meeting, the Department of Sociology & Social Work at the Somali National University proudly presented its notable achievements in promoting child protection and welfare. The department emphasized its commitment to raising awareness about children’s rights and providing quality education to aspiring social workers. Students Data Segregation and Mapping: One of the key highlights of the department’s presentation was the implementation of a comprehensive students’ data segregation and mapping system. This innovative approach allows for a better understanding of the students’ backgrounds, experiences, and skills, enabling the department to tailor its curriculum to meet their specific needs. By utilizing this approach, the department aims to produce competent and well-prepared professionals who can effectively address the challenges faced by vulnerable children.

Importance of Field Practicum in Social Work Education: Another significant aspect discussed during the presentation was the importance of field practicum in social work education. The Department of Sociology & Social Work highlighted its commitment to providing practical experiences for students through partnerships with various organizations and institutions dedicated to child protection. By engaging in real-world scenarios, students gain invaluable hands-on experience, enhancing their skills and preparing them to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children in need.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Initiatives: The Annual Child Protection Review Meeting served as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the collaborative efforts between the Department of Sociology & Social Work, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development. The event paved the way for future initiatives aimed at strengthening child protection measures, advocating for children’s rights, and improving social work education in Somalia.

Conclusion:

The Annual Child Protection Review Meeting was a resounding success, bringing together passionate individuals and organizations dedicated to ensuring the well-being and rights of children in Somalia. The Department of Sociology & Social Work at the Somali National University showcased its commitment to excellence in education, highlighting its achievements, students’ data segregation and mapping, and the significance of field practicum. With continued collaboration and collective efforts, Somalia aims to create a safe and nurturing environment for every child, empowering them to build a brighter future.