Department of Sociology and Population Studies Hosts UK-Based Social Worker

The Department of Sociology and Population Studies recently hosted a UK-based visiting social worker, Kate Aspray, who is part of a UK charity called Supporting Social Work in Malawi (SSWIM). SSWIM has been supporting social work in Malawi by donating books to the department and providing assistance to Practice Educators (PEs). Aspray also works as a children’s social worker and as a Social Work Development Manager at the local council in Newcastle, England.

The aim of her visit was to understand the focus of social work in Malawi and explore potential areas of collaboration. During her three-day stay at UNIMA from 17th to 19th March 2025, she interacted with the Executive Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, met members of the department, and participated in International Social Work Day activities led by the Social Work Society. She also presented at a staff-student seminar organized by the department. During the seminar, she discussed child protection issues in the UK, comparing them to the Malawian context, and concluded with a discussion on children’s mental health.

In his remarks, the Executive Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr. Emmanuel Ngwira, welcomed Aspray to the school and commended her for exploring potential collaborations with the Department of Sociology and Population Studies, noting that such partnerships could extend to the entire School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The Head of the Department, Dr. Jesman Chintsanya, also expressed gratitude for her interest in working with the department and students.

The Social Work Program Coordinator, Mr. Austin Ndala, who facilitated Aspray’s visit to the University of Malawi, described her visit as fruitful. “We need to constantly learn from each other about how different countries are addressing challenges in the social work profession. Students have also been exposed to practical social work issues beyond Malawi,” he said.