Azibuyele emasisweni: Exploring the discourse of Ubuntu philosophy in social work education and practice

Abstract

Ubuntu philosophy represents the moral and ethical principle of social justice, empowerment and liberation. Social work focuses on humanity and harmony in people’s existence through the collective frameworks of equality, inclusivity and justice for all. This suggest that, the interconnectedness of people and things and value for humanity that is appreciated by Ubuntu is the Afrocentric worldview to be adopted in programmes such as social work. This is to ensure that all people’s identities are included in transformation and development. But social work educators and students need to understand this philosophy and discover ways for practical implanting its principles in practice. This article explores the principles of ubuntu philosophy and how they can be adopted in social work education and practice. Acknowledging the aftermaths of colonialism and apartheid which destroyed the African principle of oneness and togetherness not only in South Africa but in a winder African continent, Social Workers are called to restore the dignity of Africa and Africans through ubuntu philosophy. Concepts of ubuntu, isintu, and respect are discussed as the guiding standards for education in social work and service delivery during practice. ‘Azibuyele Emasizweni’ is thus a call for decolonial transformation in Social Work education and practice.