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Embracing reconciliation
Recent changes in NSCSW’s by-laws & governance policy
By Alec Stratford, RSW
In a significant move towards inclusivity and respect for Indigenous knowledge, the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers has recently updated its by-laws and governance policy. This change specifically includes the addition of the National Indigenous Accreditation Board (NIAB) as an equivalent assessor of academic programs, aligning with the standards set by the Canadian Association of Social Work Educators (CASWE).
This shift offers a broader perspective on social work education, acknowledging and validating the rich tapestry of Indigenous knowledge frameworks. It serves as a critical step in promoting diversity and ensuring that social workers in Nova Scotia are reflective of the communities they serve.
The NIAB, established in 2009, has its roots in an earlier movement of Indigenous educators envisioning a system of reviewing and validating education programs using Indigenous knowledge systems. Entrusted with the task of institutional accreditation, NIAB has also developed a process for accrediting specific education programs. The board is served by a group of directors elected or appointed by membership from five geographical regions, ensuring a diverse representation of Indigenous nations and cultural contexts.
A significant milestone in this journey was the signing of an agreement between representatives from CASWE-ACFTS and NIAB. This agreement recognizes their accredited social work degrees as substantially equivalent, a clear indication of mutual respect and shared responsibility towards reconciliation.
The collaboration aims to expand the education landscape to include Indigenous knowledges, contribute to healthy communities, and reclaim Indigenous languages and ways of being. It’s a collective effort to foster harmonious relationships, and to encourage relational practices rooted in Indigenous traditions.
This change in NSCSW’s by-laws and governance policy is not just a procedural adjustment; it’s a powerful statement about the importance of integrating Indigenous wisdom into mainstream education. By recognizing NIAB as an equivalent assessor of academic programs, NSCSW aims to create a more inclusive, diverse, and respectful social work landscape.
