📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / James Famkima
Education
14th Social Work Conference Ends at Assam Don Bosco University, Urges Wellbeing Shift
✍️ The Meghalayan Express
🗓 07 Nov 2026, 12:32 AM
👁 13
The 14th Indian Social Work Conference wrapped up at Assam Don Bosco University, urging professionals to move from a welfare‑centric approach to a wellbeing‑focused model.
Assam Don Bosco University hosted the concluding sessions of the 14th Indian Social Work Conference on Saturday, bringing together scholars, practitioners and policymakers from across the country. The three‑day forum highlighted emerging research on community resilience, mental health and inclusive development.
Keynote speakers emphasized that traditional welfare schemes, while essential, often address symptoms rather than root causes. They advocated for a paradigm shift toward holistic wellbeing, integrating preventive health, livelihood security and participatory governance.
The conference resolution called on academic institutions, NGOs and government agencies to redesign curricula and program frameworks to embed wellbeing metrics. Organisers pledged to circulate a policy brief summarising recommendations to relevant ministries before the end of the year.
Attendees expressed optimism that the proposed shift could reshape social work practice in India, fostering interventions that empower individuals and communities rather than merely providing relief.
The event concluded with a cultural program showcasing the diverse heritage of Assam, underscoring the link between cultural identity and social wellbeing.
Keynote speakers emphasized that traditional welfare schemes, while essential, often address symptoms rather than root causes. They advocated for a paradigm shift toward holistic wellbeing, integrating preventive health, livelihood security and participatory governance.
The conference resolution called on academic institutions, NGOs and government agencies to redesign curricula and program frameworks to embed wellbeing metrics. Organisers pledged to circulate a policy brief summarising recommendations to relevant ministries before the end of the year.
Attendees expressed optimism that the proposed shift could reshape social work practice in India, fostering interventions that empower individuals and communities rather than merely providing relief.
The event concluded with a cultural program showcasing the diverse heritage of Assam, underscoring the link between cultural identity and social wellbeing.