Ernakulam: “The hands of professional social workers are indispensable in overcoming social problems,” said noted social scientist Dr. John Menachery, former National Director of Childline India Foundation. He stressed that the formation of a National Council of Professional Social Workers is of utmost importance in addressing the growing complexities of society.
He was delivering the keynote address at the 13th Annual General Body Meeting ( 20 th Sept 2025 ) of the Kerala Association of Professional Social Workers (KAPS), held at St. Albert’s College, Ernakulam.
On the occasion, Fr. Dr. Antony Thoppil, Chairman of St. Albert’s College, honored the district chapters for achieving the Thisahasra Campaign milestone.
The meeting was presided over by Dr. Cherian P. Kurien, State President of KAPS. Prof. Xaviarkutty Francis, General Secretary, presented the annual report and financial statement.
Prominent dignitaries who addressed the gathering included:
Former President Lida Jacob IAS
Working President Dr. M. P. Antony
Associate Secretary Dr. Aneesh K. R.
Thisahasra Campaign Coordinator Dileep Kumar M. B.
Secretary General of the Indian Network of Professional Social Workers Dr. Iype Varghese
Head of the Department of Social Work, St. Albert’s College Dinu Simon
KAPS Ernakulam Chapter President Dr. Shaly M. O.
As part of the observance of the International Day of the Girl Child, a report highlighting KAPS’s statewide initiatives was released by Prof. Keith Thomas and Adv. Reni Jacob.
The session also elected new office bearers for the 2026 working year. With the participation of over 300 delegates from 14 district chapters, the annual meeting reaffirmed the growing role of professional social workers in Kerala’s social development and community empowerment.
