MANILA, Nov. 28 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is strengthening the skills and professionalism of social workers through the newly renovated and fully functioning DSWD Academy, which now offers comprehensive competency-based learning courses.

The DSWD Academy, first opened in 1975 under the sponsorship of then First Lady Imelda R. Marcos, currently offers 72 programs that include 15 introductory courses, eight specialized courses, and a ladderized program designed for employed social workers who do not have a formal degree in social work.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian initiated the renovation of the DSWD Academy to make it a premier school for social workers in Southeast Asia.

Assistant Secretary Janet Armas...