In group photo: Deputy Secretary Health Improvement Dr Nemia Bainivalu, Social Welfare Director Linda Tupe, Social Welfare National and Provincial officers together with UNICEF
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), Social Welfare Division conducted its two days (21st to 22nd July) Annual General Conference with all its Provincial Social Welfare officers with the theme: “Reflecting, Strengthening, and Advancing Child and Family Welfare Services in Solomon Islands”, and is financially supported by UNICEF.
Deputy Secretary Health Improvement (DSHI), Dr Nemia Bainivalu conference stated as a government and individuals who care deeply about the well-being of our people, we are gathered for one shared reason: “to give every child in Solomon Islands a safer and stronger start in life”.
Dr Bainivalu said the work of protecting children is never simple, and never the job of just one ministry, one agency, or one sector. “It is shared responsibility, rooted in the law through our Child and Family Welfare Act 2017, and brought together social workers, health professionals, teachers, police, church leaders, and community champions”.
“Thank you all for your dedication and commitment that you have showed. Though there are only 17 Social Welfare Officers throughout the whole Solomon Islands and with limited resources and geographical challenges you have been able to deal with Child Protection cases with professionalism and ensuring that children are safe, supported, and able to reach their full potential. When you protect children, you are investing in the future of our nation”, said Dr Bainivalu.
He further stated he is pleased that the officers have together as a team to share their experiences in the field and learn from each other.
Social Welfare Division Director, Ms. Linda Tupe said the conference is an annual event which brings all Social Welfare Officers across the provinces together to learn from each other through sharing of experiences, good practices including challenges and concerns and ensure timely and effective response to Child protection cases.
“The Officers were introduced and refreshed on their roles and responsibilities under the Child and Family Welfare Act 2017, which provides for the protection of children including their families who are in need of care and protection and promote safety, health and wellbeing of children”, said Ms. Tupe.
Meanwhile, apart from reviewing the 2024 progress, identifying service delivery challenges, and setting strategic priorities for 2025 and beyond from all the provincial officers. The SAFENET Partners; the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, Sexual Assault Unit, Public Solicitors Office including World Vision have also shared their service delivery referrals and challenges faced and how better they can work together with the Social Welfare Division.
End///
[MHMS]
