Challenges of social work field practicum and professionalization in Bangladesh

Social work education and practices began in Bangladesh more than half a century ago. Yet, it has not attained the professional status demanded by the country. This paper aims to examine the challenges of field practicum and the professionalization of social work in Bangladesh. Applying a qualitative approach, the study found that the field education of social work in Bangladesh has been devalued due to a shortage of professional agencies and qualified field supervisors, disagreement between students and agency supervisors, lack of state recognition, and prevailing societal perceptions. Furthermore, the study highlights a critical gap in practical skills development due to supervisors lacking social work training, hindering their ability to bridge the theory-practice gap for students. Consequently, graduates often lack the necessary competency to effectively address complex social issues. The study outcomes strongly advocate for the continuous support of social work educators and trained fieldwork supervisors. Furthermore, the establishment of an accreditation council for social work education and professional recognition of social work can also help overcome the challenges of field education in social work in Bangladesh.