The Ministry of Social Welfare met with the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Social Welfare to review the Professional Social Work Regulatory Bill Act 2025, a key legislative step aimed at addressing social welfare challenges and professionalizing the sector.

The meeting, held in Freetown, brought together senior ministry officials and parliamentary leaders to deliberate on the bill, which seeks to establish a Social Work Regulatory Council. The proposed council would license social workers, regulate welfare organizations, and enforce ethical standards to ensure high-quality care for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

Chief Director of Social Services, Mrs. Mariatu Bangura, presented findings from a recent capacity gap analysis. The study revealed a severe shortage of trained social workers, with over 750 professionals needed to meet national demands. She also highlighted significant discrepancies between current university curricula and international standards, prompting the ministry to introduce a standardized Bachelor of Science (BSc) curriculum and practical training modules for social work students.

“This harmonized approach will prepare graduates to meet global standards and address the country’s growing social challenges effectively,” Bangura said.

Related News

Hon. Haja Miatta Amara, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Social Welfare, emphasized Parliament’s commitment to addressing the nation’s welfare needs. She acknowledged the critical role of the Ministry of Social Welfare in supporting vulnerable populations and stressed the importance of bipartisan collaboration to ensure the bill’s success.

“The Professional Social Work Regulatory Bill Act 2025 is a necessary step toward reforming our welfare system,” Hon. Amara stated. “We must regulate rehabilitation centers and other welfare institutions to protect the public and ensure quality care.”

Hon. Melrose Karminty, Minister of Social Welfare, expressed gratitude for Parliament’s engagement and underscored the importance of the bill in restructuring Sierra Leone’s welfare system. She highlighted its potential to address the nation’s drug crisis, improve care in orphanages and rehabilitation centers, and uphold professional accountability.

“This legislation represents a critical mission to rebuild our social fabric,” Hon. Karminty said. “We must ensure that every Sierra Leonean, especially the vulnerable, receives the care they deserve.”

The minister called for strong collaboration between the Ministry and Parliament, urging lawmakers to view the bill as a transformative initiative to address systemic challenges.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to finalize and enact the Professional Social Work Regulatory Bill Act 2025, setting the stage for a more robust and professional social welfare system in Sierra Leone.