Intergenerational Solidarity Marked the Celebration of Social Work
Conference Highlighted Best Practices and Reflected on the Role of Social Work in Society
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
On 25th March, Lusófona University marked World Social Work Day with a conference entitled “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Lasting Well-being”, bringing together professionals, students, lecturers and experts for a space of reflection and the sharing of best practices. Although the official celebration is held on 18th March, the event was postponed to this date to allow for broader participation from both the academic and professional communities.
The initiative was organised by the Institute of Social Work (ISS) and the Faculty of Social Sciences, Education and Administration (FCSEA) of Lusófona University, aligning with the 2024 theme proposed by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW). The conference highlighted the importance of care, cooperation and respect between generations as essential foundations for building more inclusive, supportive and sustainable societies.
The opening session featured Manuel de Almeida Damásio, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ensino Lusófona, and Ana Sofia Branco, representative of the Portuguese Association of Social Workers. The session was moderated by lecturer Hélia Bracons (ISS/FCSEA).
The keynote lecture was delivered by Isabel Passarinho, Social Worker and PhD in Education, and moderated by lecturer Ana Paula Garcia (ISS/FCSEA), providing an in-depth reflection on the challenges and potential of strengthening intergenerational connections.
The themed panel “Bonds That Unite: Experiences of Intergenerational Solidarity” showcased real-world examples of intervention in this field. Margarida Guedes de Quinhones, Executive Director of the association Pedalar Sem Idade Portugal, presented the talk “The Right to Wind in One’s Hair”, while Isabel Martim and Beatriz Carlos, President and Social Worker at the Crescer Bem Association, shared the experience “Being Family to the Families We Care For”. The session was moderated by lecturer Nélson Ramalho (ISS/FCSEA).
The conference concluded with remarks from Jacqueline Marques (ISS/FCSEA), who emphasised the transformative role of Social Work in promoting well-being and social justice.
Credits:
Coverage
Sara Serrano and Catarina Castanheira
Editing
Rui Simões
News
Catarina Castanheira
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