Continuous Education: Lifelong professionalise learning to youth work programmes
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Authors
Njiro, Esther
DICHABA, MPHO
Issue Date
2013-07
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Continuous education and training , Professionalism , Youth workers
Alternative Title
Abstract
Professional youth work is in most cases blurred and not acknowledged appropriately by policy and the
powers that be. The demand for professionalism is increasing as investment in youth work is considered
beneficial to holistic development and progress in South Africa and other Commonwealth countries.
According to this paper, investing in the knowledge base and expertise of youth workers is imperative
for professionalism in youth work. Youth work professionalism is critical and it is suggested that the
role of continuous education and training, also known as lifelong learning, can lead to a professional
recognition of youth workers and their work. Mere formal education resulting in a certificate is not
enough for the professional development of youth work in a rapidly changing and globalised world of
innovation and high technology. A review of the available literature was the main source of information
for this paper. A library search was conducted and relevant information examined to provide the
description and analysis of the various approaches to youth work professionalism. Professionalism
in youth work through continuous education and training should produce the following distinctive
qualities: acceptance of the moral and ethical responsibility inherent in youth work practice; promotion
of the wellbeing of young persons and their families in a context of respect and collaboration; and
valuing care of young people as essential for emotional growth, social competence, rehabilitation
and treatment. There is a need to acknowledge the strengths arising from cultural and human diversity.
Valuing individual uniqueness and family, community, culture and human diversity is integral to the
developmental and intervention process. Advocating for the rights of youth and families promotes
their contribution to nation-building and the development of society.
Description
Citation
Njiro, Esther; Dichaba, Mpho (2013) Continuous Education: Lifelong professionalise learning to youth work programmes. Commonwealth Youth and Development 11(1) pp 78-86
Publisher
Unisa Press