The Social Welfare Human Resources Development Project in the ASEAN Region (JICA-ATCSW Project) was launched in August 2025. This project is being implemented jointly by JICA, Thailand’s Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), and the ASEAN Training Center for Social Work and Social Welfare (ATCSW). By strengthening the capabilities of ATCSW—a hub for social service human resource development—the project aims to expand access to high-quality training and learning opportunities throughout the ASEAN region.
JICA-ATCSW Shares ASEAN Experiences at the World Social Work Congress
From June 26 to 29, 2026, the “2026 Joint Conference on Social Work, Education, and Social Development (SWSD2026)” was held in Nairobi, Republic of Kenya, bringing together more than 1,000 social work practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and representatives from international organizations.
Accompanied by ATCSW Director Chinchai Chijaroon, JICA expert Akiko Yokoyama participated in the event, where she gave a presentation on initiatives for social service human resource development in the ASEAN region and engaged in efforts to build international networks and gather information.
Sharing ASEAN’s Initiatives with the World
At the conference, under the title “Strengthening Social Services Human Resources in ASEAN: Capacity Building through International Technical Cooperation,” we presented the JICA-ATCSW Project’s efforts to develop social work and social welfare professionals in the ASEAN region.
Following the presentation, numerous questions were raised regarding the collaborative framework among ASEAN countries and the status of online training programs. In response, we introduced regional cooperation initiatives through the ASEAN Social Work Consortium (ASWC) as well as training programs—such as webinars held in conjunction with “World Social Work Day”—that are open to participants from outside the region. Furthermore, during the discussion with participants, ATCSW was highly praised as a leading organization promoting the development of social service professionals at the regional level.
Proposing a New Perspective on International Social Work
During the workshop, discussions centered on the theme “Rethinking International Social Work.” The chair proposed that “international social work” is not a single, universal model, but rather should be developed in light of each region’s cultural and social context. In response, expert Yokoyama introduced the ATCSW’s initiatives for cooperation within the ASEAN region; ASEAN’s experience, which incorporates a regional perspective, drew the participants’ interest as a new direction for international social work.
Learn about the latest global trends and apply them to the future of ATCSW
At the conference, insights were shared on a wide range of topics related to social work practice, education, and research, and discussions took place on diverse fields such as digital technology, climate change, decolonization, and trauma-informed care. In particular, insights regarding AI-driven social work education, the use of digital platforms in child welfare, the importance of ethics and confidentiality, and practices that prioritize the agency of local residents will serve as valuable references for ATCSW as it plans and conducts future training programs.
Strengthening Our Network with Countries Around the World
During the conference, we exchanged views with a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW), the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW), and the International Council on Social Welfare (ICSW), as well as UNICEF, the Global Social Service Workforce Alliance, universities and professional associations from various countries. We also held concrete discussions regarding cooperation on upcoming webinars and international conferences planned under the JICA-ATCSW project, achieving results that will lead to new partnerships. Furthermore, a social work educational institution in France conducted an interview regarding ATCSW’s activities, demonstrating the high level of interest in initiatives for social service human resource development in the ASEAN region.
Looking Ahead
Through our participation in this conference, we were able to showcase the initiatives of the JICA-ATCSW Project to the international community, while also learning about and sharing the latest insights and best practices from countries around the world.
Moving forward, the JICA-ATCSW Project will continue to strengthen its collaboration with ASEAN countries while promoting the development of high-quality social work and social welfare professionals. We will also share regional experiences with the world and contribute to the realization of a sustainable and inclusive society.
Announcement of the Results of the Training Needs Survey Conducted by the JICA-ATCSW Project
“PhotoVoice” Workshop Led by Professor Mieko Yoshihama and Others
ATCSW Director Chin-Chai and representatives from social work education institutions exchanged views on future collaboration
The main venue, attended by more than 1,000 social work practitioners and professionals from over 30 countries
For Reference
ASEAN Training Center for Social Work and Social Welfare website: Welcome – ASEAN Training Center for Social Work and Social Welfare
ASEAN Social Work and Social Welfare Training Center Facebook Page: Facebook
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