Speaking at the launch of the Diploma in Social Work Programme and Graduation Ceremony at the School of Social Work in Osu, Accra, on Friday, Dr. Lartey emphasized the vital yet often unrecognized role social workers play in society.

She encouraged graduates to rise above challenges, lead with compassion, and actively contribute to national development.

"Social workers are the unsung heroes in our communities. You are the ones who respond to cases of abuse, help children find safe homes, support persons with disabilities, assist the elderly, and help families in crisis. You are the quiet bridge between policy and people," she said.

"As you step forward into service, know that the nation is counting on you not just to do your jobs, but to lead with compassion, uphold integrity, and become champions of social justice. Let your training guide you, but let your heart lead you," she stressed.

The Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to expanding, resourcing, and empowering the country's social protection workforce. This includes recruiting and training more social workers nationwide and upgrading social work institutions into centres of excellence.

She also pledged to improve working conditions, provide better tools and logistics for frontline welfare officers, and strengthen the institutional link between social services and national development priorities.

"We believe that building a caring society must be deliberate, and that means giving our social services the same attention and investment we give to other sectors," she said.

"Let today inspire all of us-policymakers, educators, graduates, and citizens to give greater recognition and support to the social services profession. Let us invest in it, dignify it, and most importantly, rely on it as a pillar for Ghana's inclusive future," she urged.

Dr Lartey congratulated the graduating class and urged them to demonstrate empathy, be guided by evidence, and remain anchored in the belief that every Ghanaian—regardless of circumstance deserves dignity.

"Let me begin by congratulating each and every graduate here today. You have made a choice to dedicate your lives to serving the vulnerable, to standing up for justice, and to holding the social fabric of our country together," she said.

"As you step forward into service, know that the nation is counting on you—not just to do your jobs, but to lead with compassion, uphold integrity, and become champions of social justice. Let your training guide you, but let your heart lead you."

She acknowledged the challenges ahead, including limited resources, difficult cases, and emotional strain, but emphasized that the rewards lie in the lives they will transform.

"You are not just workers," she added. "You are advocates, caregivers, system-builders, and changemakers."

Dr Lartey also commended the faculty, management, and partners who contributed to the success of the training and the launch of the new diploma programme.

"I say thank you. Your vision is helping to shape a more professional and well-equipped social services workforce for our nation," she said.

Addressing the graduates, the Chief Director of the MOGCSP, Dr Afisah Zakariah, announced that the School of Social Work, under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, will be offering a Diploma in Social Work, which will be affiliated with the University of Ghana.

She also charged the graduates to exhibit professionalism wherever they find themselves in order to support the vulnerable, the needy, and the marginalized.

A total of 60 students from across the country, graduated at the ceremony after months of training in Social Work. This followed with the presentation of certificates to participants of the Social Work Services Workforce Batch 3.

In attendance were the Principal of the School of Social Work, Mr Felix Logah, Vice Principal, Samuel Anaglate, Chief Director, Dr Afisah Zakariah, who chaired the event and Mrs Gloria E B Barnes, a staff of MOGCSP.