Social development reflects on challenges
The KZN Department of Social Development said challenges of budget cuts make it impossible for them to reach areas they otherwise would want to.
More social workers are sought by the KZN Department of Social Development, but there is no money to pay them.
This was a challenge raised by the HOD Nelisiwe Vilakazi at the department’s mid-term performance review at San Lameer last week.
She explained budget cuts make it impossible for them to do more.
Also, some social work graduates remain unemployed.
“We have work for unemployed graduates; we just need additional support and funding to be able to employ them,” said Vilakazi.
She added that a strategic review process was important for identifying areas where support was needed to improve performance and meet departmental targets.
Vilakazi said these reviews are key to guiding units and districts in aligning their efforts to achieve set goals.
“During this time, we pause to reflect on the targets we set for ourselves in our annual performance plan. Guided by the department’s executive authority, MEC Mbali Shinga, we were encouraged by the department’s performance. Compared to other districts, we achieved 100% in some areas,” she said.
She added that it was important to adhere to the plans for effectively managing finances.
During the three-day session, chief directors from different districts presented updates on the performance of their respective clusters and outlined progress on established targets.
Vilakazi also recently met with the Department of Social Development’s portfolio committee.
She said the committee commended the department for its achievements and ongoing efforts.
A highlight during the review session was the introduction of the department’s multi-award-winning choir.
According to Vilakazi, the choir has a selection of songs that have earned them recognition in various competitions.
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