Opening of Photography Expo at the National Library of Aruba
ORANJESTAD—On Monday, May 26, students of the University of Aruba, of the Faculty of Social Work, presented a photography exhibition at the National Library in Oranjestad. Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Care, Dr. Mervin Wyatt-Ras, cut the ribbon and officially opened the exhibition.
As part of their study, students from the Faculty of Social Work and Development of the University of Aruba went into their community to identify social problems and think about potential solutions. This project is part of the students of Social Work and Development (first-year bachelor) curriculum. Working individually, the students used their "sociological eye" and courage to capture a social problem in Aruba. Each student selected a snapshot of a scenario that exemplifies a social issue and then took a second photograph that depicted a potential solution.
To expand understanding, each student chose a sociological theory to explain the cause of the problem and another theory to explain the solution.
Minister of Kingdom Affairs, Education, Youth, Innovation, and Sports, mr. Gerlien Croes was impressed with the unique way in which the social work students presented the reality in which we live today. The social challenges we see in each community and how that corresponds to the possible solutions we can bring.
Realizing that economic development has led to a significant imbalance in Aruba and worldwide is essential. This balance must be restored, taking into account social and emotional factors.
These activities provide a profound understanding of the social issues that frequently go unnoticed in our community. Days go by without us pausing to check if progress is being made in every home as we wake up and go to work. Development must be part of the common cause, and the responsibility of multinational organizations must include investments in the community.
Minister Wyatt-Ras stated, "These students, through this project, could solve certain problems they brought forward." There are many social problems, but we must put our heads together to bring solutions, empower our people, and take concrete action to reduce the social problems in our community. Given the complexity of social issues, there is no magic bullet, but when agencies collaborate and take a realistic approach, we can find long-lasting, practical answers.
The photographic exhibition at the National Library in Oranjestad is open to the public until 18 June 2025, during opening hours.