World Social Work Day Celebration – 2026 – National Institute of Social Development: NISD

World Social Work Day was commemorated globally on 17th March each year under a unifying theme that reflected the priorities and commitments of the international social work community. The theme for 2026, “Co-Building Hope & Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society,” emphasized collective responsibility, solidarity, and collaborative action in fostering social cohesion and inclusive development. The 2026 celebration featured the distinguished presence of Professor Stephan Lund, Deputy Dean of the School of Health and Clinical Sciences and Head of Social Work and Social Policy at the University of Western Australia, who delivered the keynote address. Hon. Minister Dr. Upali Pannila, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The Secretary to the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment also participated in the programme, further enhancing the significance of the event. The programme was jointly organized by the National Institute of Social Development (NISD), the Sri Lanka Association of Professional Social Workers, and the NISD Alumni Association, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening and advancing the Social Work profession in Sri Lanka.

The event was held on 17th March 2026 at the Auditorium, 19th Floor, Suhurupaya, Battaramulla, from 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. The programme included two panel discussions conducted in both English and Sinhala mediums. The English medium panel discussion was held under the theme “Advancing Partnerships for an Inclusive Society: The Role of the Social Work Profession.” The Sinhala medium panel discussion was conducted under the theme “Empowering Communities through Social Work Field Practice” (සමාජ වැඩ ක්ෂේත්‍ර පුහුණුව තුළින් ප්‍රජා සවිබලගැන්වීම). In addition to the panel discussions, cultural performances presented by students added colour and diversity to the celebration. The active participation and insightful contributions of academics, students, and distinguished invitees made the event vibrant, intellectually enriching, and truly reflective of the collective spirit and professional solidarity of the Social Work community in Sri Lanka.