Bridging the Gap: The Impact of the Shortage of Social Workers on Psychosocial Support in South African Schools

Medwin Dikwanyane Sepadi, Moshohli Kenneth Malatji, Nthabanele Enoch Rabotata and Sethuthuthu Lucky Vuma
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Medwin Dikwanyane Sepadi: Senior Lecturer, Department of Education Studies, University of Limpopo
Moshohli Kenneth Malatji: Senior Lecturer, Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, University of South Africa
Nthabanele Enoch Rabotata: Lecturer, Department of Social Work, University of South Africa
Sethuthuthu Lucky Vuma: Senior Lecturer, Department of Cultural and Political Studies, University of Limpopo

Social Sciences and Education Research Review, 2025, vol. 12, issue 1, 310-321

Abstract: Providing school psychosocial support is essential for promoting learner well-being and academic success. However, South African schools continue to face a critical shortage of social workers, limiting access to necessary interventions for learners experiencing socio-emotional, behavioural, and mental health challenges. This literature-based study explores the role of social workers in school-based psychosocial support, the impact of their absence on learners and educators, and the broader implications for the education system. Drawing on national and international literature, the paper examines existing policies, including the Department of Basic Education Care and Support for Teaching and Learning (CSTL) framework, and highlights the gaps in implementation. The study also discusses alternative psychosocial support mechanisms currently in place and evaluates their effectiveness without dedicated social workers. Finally, the paper provides recommendations for strengthening psychosocial support structures through policy reforms, capacity building, and multi-sectoral collaboration to address the growing mental health and social challenges learners face.

Keywords: psychosocial support; social workers; interventions; frameworks; policy; mental health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I28 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:edt:jsserr:v:12:y:2025:i:1:p:310-321

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15804566

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