Academic Public Lecture Series No. 02 – Professionalization of Social Work in Sri Lanka

The Academic Public Lecture Series No. 02, organized by the National Institute of Social Development (NISD), was successfully conducted on 18^th March 2026 at the NISD premises in Liyanagemulla, Seeduwa, with hybrid participation enabling both physical and virtual attendance. The lecture, titled “Professionalization of Social Work in Sri Lanka,” was delivered by Prof. Stephan Lund from the University of Western Australia, who shared valuable international perspectives and insights into the evolving standards, practices, and challenges of professional Social Work.

The session brought together a diverse audience including academics, practitioners, and students, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange and critical discussion. Prof. Lund’s presentation emphasized the importance of strengthening professional identity, ethical practice, and institutional frameworks in advancing Social Work in Sri Lanka. The interactive discussion that followed further enriched participants’ understanding and encouraged reflection on local practices in a global context. This successful event marked another significant step in NISD’s ongoing commitment to promoting academic excellence, professional development, and meaningful engagement within the field of Social Work.