By Lydia Nsubuga

University students of social work in the country have decried what they called deliberate neglect by communities for their contribution to community development, and demanded for a change.

They however partly blamed themselves for shying away from exposing  their contribution, which they say has enabled other professionals like doctors and lawyers to dominate.

The students were  addressing their problem to the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs Ronald Kibuule, who was chief guest at the National Social Workers of Uganda (NASWU) day held at Uganda Christian University Mukono.

They were supported by the minister who noted that social workers are too humble which he said has kept them away from the limelight like other professionals.

Mr. Kibuule asked the faculty authorities to draft a memorandum showing their relevance so that he arranges a meeting between social work students and President Museveni with a view to seek deeper recognition.

Minister Kibuule, himself a social work graduate, lamented that the President does not adequately recognize them, saying “The President usually refers to us as useless, and unless all inequalities are fought and our duties clearly gazetted, we shall remain in the backyard”.

He was sad to note that because of failure by social workers to show commitment in their duties, guardians especially of orphans and other vulnerable children (OVCs) have taken  over their roles, but performing them poorly.

By a show of hands, the majority  social work students who were drawn from seven universities, rejected the marriage and divorce bill.