Social work as a profession has an obligation to respond to and, if necessary create, societal agendas. Social development is clearly on the current societal agenda. This paper examines the different emphases and levels of social development and advocates a broad perspective of the concept. The relationship between social development and social work is then explored. Shared values and goals augur well for a constructive relationship. Finally the paper addresses the importance of education for social workers to participate in social development initiatives. Teaching and practice curricula are discussed as well as different levels of training. The paper concludes with recommendations for future networking, both between educators and disciplines, and research and literature.
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