Integrating social work into urban development strategies for achieving the SDGs

Being the product of history and enhanced by experience, Social Work may contribute to transforming human civilisations. The profession should be brought to its full potential as the 2030 SDG deadline approaches. It has the potential to support Community-level change by mobilising the efforts of young, energetic Social Work students through organised field training. An SDG-Centred Field Practicum can incorporate awareness of the SDGs into students’ regular training to mobilise urban and rural communities on issues such as healthy living, waste management, road safety, communal harmony, and the spirit of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Urban Local Bodies have the potential to support and appreciate this contribution by issuing student certificates for internships, and both sides benefit. To achieve successful implementation, Social Work institutions, SDG experts, and government agencies, such as PRIs, should develop clear working guidelines. The projected outcomes may include reduced waterlogging, improved traffic flow, fewer petty crimes, and more sustainable, healthier cities. The model presented in this practicum constitutes a conceptual framework for integrating Social Work education with the global SDG agenda. Empirical validation through pilot implementation studies remains an important direction for future research.