Location:

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Program Type:

Intern Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Year Round

Work Types:

Business, Education, Medical, Nursing, Religion, Social Sciences

Program Overview

Program Description:

Because of the sensitive nature of the topic, teachers and trainers in Cambodia are often shy to bring up issues related to HIV/AIDS in the classroom and community. Young people remain vulnerable and do not receive sufficient attention from HIV/AIDS prevention organizations. With the help of international volunteers, Global Service Corps hopes to inform children in need about HIV/AIDS, increase teachers' and trainers' comfort levels in teaching HIV/AIDS prevention, and keep future generations safe from the disease. GSC volunteers will provide vital wellness training to children in Cambodia. Based on a needs-assessment of the local communities in Phnom Penh, GSC’s Health Education Workshops focus on HIV/AIDS education and prevention, drug and alcohol abuse awareness, and issues related to domestic violence. The Cambodia HIV/AIDS Prevention Education Program is available throughout the year and can range from two weeks to six months or longer. Undergraduate and graduate students may also receive college credit for their participation in any GSC program.

All participants begin their program with a five-day cultural orientation and training. Khmer language lessons are included in the orientation as well as a guided tour of historical and cultural sites that will provide insight into the storied history of Cambodia. Prior to departure, HIV/AIDS program volunteers receive the GSC Cambodia HIV/AIDS Prevention Manual. The manual serves to educate volunteers on HIV/AIDS in Cambodia and is full of teaching tips, including sample lesson plans and time tested games and activities. Volunteers will not only become knowledgeable of the issues but also effective trainers.

Participants discover Cambodia by living, working, and learning with Cambodian people in their own communities. They are immersed in the local culture and enjoy language lessons, cultural orientation, and technical trainings. By sharing their time, talents, experience, and knowledge, volunteers transform their own lives as well as the lives of the local community members.

Setting Description:

During the first week of orientation, participants will be housed in a local hotel/guesthouse in Phnom Penh. After orientation, you will either stay in a guesthouse or in your placement’s on-site accommodations (for the Orphanage Care and Buddhist Immersion Programs). All accommodations are shared with same-sex volunteers.