With reference to the subject and reference cited above, the professional social work fraternity were pained on hearing the UGC notification that states MSW as Non Professional Course vide https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/guidelines_pgsprof_gl1819.pdf

 UGC has cited the non-existence of a regulatory council in India for terming Post Graduate Courses of Social Work in India as Non Professional. Social Work has been taught in India as a professional course for nearly a centenary. Social Work has created number of social reformers who have brought in numerous models in Development Sector for Community Development, Rehabilitation, Disaster Risk Reduction, Environment Conservation and Poverty Alleviation in the country.

 Post Graduate Social Work Courses that are taught in Indian Colleges and Universities in the regular stream follow the guidelines of UGC and have 60% theory and 40% field practicum under the professional guidance. It is the duty of the government to recognize the millions of social work professionals in the country and bring in a professional council to regulate the course and curriculum.

 Hence we herewith request the Ministry of Human Resources Development to

  • Declare Post Graduate Social Work Courses taught in regular stream as Professional Courses.
  • Initiate intervention with other concerned ministries for the formation of a National Council for Social Work Profession.

 We herewith look forward for a strong and swift action from the Ministry of Human Resources Development on behalf of millions of practising social work professionals and thousands of students who are pursuing social work in Indian universities and colleges.