𝗖𝗖𝗗𝗖 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 51𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗔𝗦𝗪𝗘𝗜 𝗕𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 2025

The Social Work Department of the Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) actively participated in the 51st National Association for Social Work Education, Inc. (NASWEI) Biennial Convention held on November 26–28, 2025, at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City. With the theme “Reimagining Social Work Education: Innovating for an Inclusive, Intergenerational, and Sustainable Future,” the national gathering brought together social work educators, practitioners, and experts from across the country, as well as guests from other nations, to engage in meaningful discussions on the evolving landscape of social work education and practice.

CCDC was represented by three faculty members—Dean Melody Calpase-Ducat, Ms. Kimberlyn M. Valdez, and Ms. Aelline G. Carame. Their participation demonstrated the institution’s strong commitment to continuous professional development and academic excellence.

The convention served as a significant platform for professional learning, networking, and collaboration, providing participants with valuable exposure to emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in social work education and practice. It also opened opportunities to engage with national experts and colleagues from various higher education institutions, strengthening professional networks essential for the advancement of the field.

The event showcased a rich program of plenary sessions, forums, and research presentations that highlighted crucial aspects of the social work profession. These sessions enhanced the knowledge and skills of educators and practitioners while fostering meaningful dialogue within the field. Guided by respected speakers and panelists, participants explored sustainable and innovative approaches designed to keep social work practices grounded in ethical principles and responsive to societal changes. The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring relevance in the present while building resilience for the future.

Through their participation, the CCDC Social Work faculty gained significant insights that would enhance instructional approaches, strengthen academic strategies, and support the continued alignment of the college’s programs with both national and international standards. The learnings drawn from the convention were expected to contribute to the department’s ongoing efforts in curriculum enhancement, faculty competency development, and the preparation of globally responsive and future-ready social work graduates.

Driven by progress and hope, NASWEI renewed its commitment to preparing social workers with the knowledge, skills, and values essential for building inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities. More than just a gathering, the NASWEI convention stood as a cornerstone of social work education, a carefully designed platform that continues to guide the profession toward creating lasting positive change for a better future.

Lastly, the faculty expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the CCDC administration for its unwavering support of faculty development initiatives. Their participation in this prestigious national event was made possible through the institution’s commitment to empowering its educators, fostering professional growth, and ensuring that the Social Work Department remains at the forefront of quality social work education. The faculty conveyed their appreciation for the trust, encouragement, and continued opportunities provided by the institution’s support, which inspires them to bring back enriched knowledge and renewed dedication to their students and the institution.

Ultimately, the convention inspired educators and practitioners alike to carry forward renewed purpose, strengthened collaboration, and innovative approaches that will empower the next generation of social workers to champion positive change for a better and more compassionate tomorrow.

By: Kimberlyn M. Valdez

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