Goa: The MSW Part I students of Goa University’s Social Work Programme had an enriching educational visit to the High Court of Bombay at Goa, where they witnessed live court proceedings presided over by His Lordship, Justice Valmiki Menezes. This rare opportunity provided students with firsthand exposure to judicial processes and legal decision-making, deepening their understanding of the intersection between social work and law.
Following the proceedings, Justice Menezes engaged in an exclusive discussion with the students, emphasizing the crucial role of social workers in child custody matters. He highlighted how social workers contribute to legal proceedings through home studies, social investigations, and advocacy for the best interests of children. His Lordship further underscored the importance of social workers collaborating with the judiciary in cases involving child welfare, family disputes, and vulnerable populations.
Earlier in the day, students also visited key institutions focused on social welfare and legal aid. At the Directorate of Tribal Welfare, they engaged in an interactive session with District Welfare Officer, Mr. Abhijeet Jambhale, who provided a detailed overview of government policies and welfare programs designed to support Goa’s tribal communities. He discussed the challenges faced by tribal populations, including access to resources and social security, and emphasized the important role of social workers in advocating for tribal rights, facilitating welfare initiatives, and ensuring social inclusion.
At the Goa State Legal Services Authority, Ms. Shabhnam Shaikh, Member Secretary, delivered an insightful briefing on the legal aid system and its role in ensuring justice for marginalized communities. She explained how the authority works to provide free legal assistance to those in need and elaborated on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. She further highlighted the significance of social workers in connecting vulnerable individuals to legal resources, ensuring that those without access to legal representation receive the support they require.
This field visit reinforced the essential role of social workers in legal and policy advocacy, offering students a deeper perspective on judicial processes, legal aid mechanisms, and social welfare interventions.
The visit was coordinated by Peter F. Borges, Assistant Professor, along with Assistant Professors Joycy Manlun and Dr. Sunil Francis. The visit was organized by the Social Work Programme, D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences and Behavioural Studies, Goa University.
