Richard Gelles. Photo courtesy of the University of Pennsylvania.

Richard Gelles, dean of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice, recently went to China to observe that country’s move to create 33 master’s of social work programs.

China is growing rapidly and is well on its way to perhaps becoming the planet’s top economy. However, its social problems are multiplying and China does not have the infrastructure to handle them, said Gelles, who is also a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

“It’s fascinating to watch a country that big and growing that fast, decide to grow out a social service component,” Gelles. “If they do it at the same pace they’re growing everything else out, it’s going to be remarkable to watch.”

To read the full University of Pennsylvania Penn Current interview with Gelles, click here.

Social workers are becoming increasingly involved in world affairs. To learn more, visit NASW’s Human Rights and International Affairs Web page by clicking here.