An Investigation of the Effects of COVID-19 on Children and Social Workers in Windhoek, Namibia

Author(s): Gelia E Matenda, Dr. A Mohamed Yasir Arafati and Dr. T Velmurugan

Abstract:

The study's goal is to look into the effects of covid-19 on children and social workers in Windhoek, Namibia, with a particular focus on children and social professionals who work closely with them. The study's target population consisted of 20 children from certain Windhoek schools, 10 child protection social workers from the Ministry of Health and Social Services, and extra key informants from the Namibia Social Workers Association and the Namibia Health Professions Council. The material was evaluated qualitatively by thematic analysis. Because of the nature of the research, in-depth interviews were conducted to obtain data from participants, allowing the researchers to gain a thorough understanding of the topic. In-depth interviews also allowed the researcher to pose open-ended questions, allowing participants to respond in greater detail during the interview. The study's objectives revealed that among of the effects of covid-19 on children include disruptions in access to education, food insecurity, and an increase in aggression. Social workers reported disruptions in service delivery, difficulty obtaining personal protective equipment, increasing caseloads, and burnout. The study's recommendations include maintaining a strong nurse-student relationship during school closures to assist pupils feel more connected and emotionally supported, perhaps lowering their risk of mental health disorders. Virtual learning environments can also be utilized to teach students about how the virus works, how to prevent getting it, mental health literacy, and pandemic coping skills. Improving insurance coverage for underserved groups and frontline workers, from farm workers to medical professionals, who are also the most affected by the pandemic, is critical for achieving health equity in the absence of universal healthcare.

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