Brian Rathbone
A group of concerned students is urging caution over
proposed restructuring of the University of Otago social work
department, saying the changes could result in New Zealand's
social work needs not being met.
The university is considering merging the social work and
community development department with sociology and women's
studies to create a new department in the university
humanities division.
The social work department employs about 10 full-time
equivalent staff.
It is understood some staff could lose their jobs as the
university tries to reduce a recent $300,000 operating
deficit for the department.
Postgraduate social work student Brian Rathbone raised the
student group's concerns in a recent letter to humanities
acting pro-vice-chancellor Associate Prof Sue Court.
The letter, signed by Mr Rathbone on behalf of himself and 10
other Otago social work students, said the proposed changes
might realise only "a relatively small financial saving".
But any cuts could "severely curtail" the department's
effectiveness in delivering education and access to
qualifications and contribute to the country's social work
needs not being met, he said in an interview.
Many social work students were "greatly concerned about the
effect that any changes will have on the ability of a small
but dedicated department to maintain the quality and depth of
the programmes" developed by such "wonderful and
professional" staff.
The department had historically not been viewed as a
"money-making enterprise".
But someone had to "pick up the pieces, get in among domestic
violence, make effective interventions with our young people
and families, and work with those who are marginalised,
oppressed, left in poverty, or those with distinct
communities of interest", he said.
"We hope and pray that those with the power will see sense
and see the value and need of this department, including
current staff, and that we cannot just put a monetary value
on all things as their value goes beyond dollars."
University officials said it was premature to comment further
on the restructuring proposal.
- john.gibb@odt.co.nz
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