Location:

Arusha, Tanzania, United Republic of

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Gap Year

Term:

Year Round

Program Overview

Program Description:

Tanzania is one of the world’s poorest countries in terms of per capita income. The economy depends heavily on agriculture and many families depend on their own gardens for nutrition and income. Tanzania, like many countries in Africa, is also facing a serious HIV/AIDS epidemic which threatens the development of the country. 1.4 million adults and children in Tanzania (approximately 8% of the population) are infected with HIV. With the help of international volunteers, Global Service Corps educates Tanzanians about HIV/AIDS, nutrition, and food security, and supports much-needed local community development organizations In order to help with the development and improvement of people’s lives in Tanzania, Global Service Corps offers trainings to Tanzania’s most vulnerable groups. These trainings help educate Tanzanians about HIV/AIDS prevention, sustainable agriculture techniques, nutrition, and other important life skills. GSC volunteers assist with these trainings as well as work with local community development organizations with their specific projects. The Community Development Program is offered throughout the year and ranges from a minimum of 13 weeks to six months or longer. Undergraduate and graduate students may also receive college credit for their participation in any GSC program.

The first part of the 13-week (minimum) Community Development Program in Tanzania consists of participation in the four-week short-term program in either the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Nutrition Education or Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security. This includes one or two weeks of orientation and technical training, followed by two to three weeks of community training. Beginning with week five, program participants are assigned to work with a community organization to assist with its program implementation. GSC Community Development assignment options for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Nutrition participants include assisting in-country staff with AIDS education and prevention program development, supporting GSC’s Peer Education Health Clubs with HIV/AIDS prevention training and materials, working with a local community organization like Women in Action (WIA), and working with local orphanages.

A true cultural immersion opportunity where you live, work, and learn with the local people! Participants stay with a Tanzanian family, who will graciously introduce the Tanzanian culture, cuisine and customs through excursions and daily interaction, providing a unique cultural experience not to be forgotten. You will learn new skills through GSC's orientation and technical trainings and provide invaluable service. Become part of a global family!

Setting Description:

GSC volunteers are based in Arusha, Tanzania which is located at the base of Mt. Meru. On a clear day you get a fantastic view of Mt. Kilimanjaro. All participants live with a Tanzanian family in a nearby village, which is perhaps the most amazing cultural experience, providing memories to last a lifetime. While on rural assignments, volunteers may also camp or stay at a local guesthouse providing a unique immersion experience into Tanzanian village life.