International experience in social work and social security.

An international scientific conference on the theme "Sharing International Experiences in Social Work and Social Security" was jointly organized by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, the Vietnam Vocational Training Association, and various domestic and international social organizations and agencies: UNICEF, the Vietnam Association for the Assistance of People with Disabilities, the Canadian International Development Agency through Memorial University, etc., and took place on November 9th and 10th, 2012.Attending the workshop were Ms. Nguyen Thi Hang – former Minister of Labour and Invalids, President of the Vietnam Vocational Training Association; Prof. Dr. Pham Tat Dong - Vice President and General Secretary of the Vietnam Association for the Promotion of Learning; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Duc Nghieu - Vice Rector of the University; along with scientists, lecturers from universities, practitioners from training institutions, practice centers, management agencies, social and professional organizations, and international organizations… The workshop focused on discussing key issues related to social work and social security such as: models, general theories and training issues in social work in Vietnam; international experience in building and developing the social work profession; social and social security policies; issues of people with disabilities and the elderly; and issues of women and children. In particular, many presentations at the conference discussed specific issues of social work in healthcare, focusing on mental health patients and people with disabilities. Furthermore, drawing on theories and practical experience, many participants offered effective and practical suggestions and solutions to promote the development of social work and social security in Vietnam today. This conference clearly demonstrated the shared concern and determination of various agencies and organizations: the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi; the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs; and the Vietnam Vocational Training Association, all striving to find solutions to develop the social work profession to reach the professional standards of countries in Asia and the world.