Ubuntu Social Work Benefits both the Practitioner and Service Users: An axiological Reflection of a Clinical Social Worker and Theologian.

Abstract

Ubuntu philosophy values kindness, empathy, forgiveness, social justice, compassion, human rights and social connectedness. An Ubuntu Social Work practitioner is expected to exhibit these values in practice. Reflecting on the axiology of Ubuntu, this chapter explores the scientific benefits of the aforementioned values. It argues that Ubuntu Social Work promotes health, social development and sustainability. Of essence, the reflection posits that Ubuntu Social Work is scientifically beneficial to both the practitioner and service users. Ubuntu Social Work values connects both the practitioner and service user in ways that transform society. Finally, the chapter explores the ripple effects of Ubuntu when put in practice. As a philosophy, Ubuntu should be understood from its value system for it to change the world.