Location:

Arusha, Tanzania, United Republic of

Program Type:

Intern Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Year Round

Work Types:

Business, Medical, Social Sciences

Program Overview

Program Description:

Like many countries in Africa, Tanzania is 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. In response to this epidemic, volunteers with Global Service Corps (GSC) Tanzania’s International Health Program offer important trainings to groups in Arusha and rural villages. As more health research is being done everyday around the world, hospitals in rural areas need access to information from developed countries in order to provide the best care possible for patients. Along with the HIV/AIDS Education trainings, GSC is also helping rural hospitals develop their telemedicine service, which allows communication between hospitals in Tanzania and hospitals in developed countries. Global Service Corps Tanzania’s International Health Program offers important life-skills training to community groups in Arusha and rural villages, and assists the development of telemedicine services in rural hospitals. GSC volunteers participate and assist staff in conducting HIV/AIDS and nutrition community training workshops, as well as in the capacity-building telemedicine project. Participants will have the opportunity to shadow health professionals and train staff in basic computer skills necessary to use the telemedicine technology. There are two components of the International Health Program: the first segment of the volunteer placement is approximately three weeks and is comprised of orientation, technical training, and participation in the HIV/AIDS prevention and nutrition training workshops. The second segment of the volunteer placement is a minimum of six weeks and includes participation in a computer-based capacity-building project in conjunction with shadowing health professionals in local hospitals The International Health Program is offered throughout the year and ranges from a minimum of nine 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. Swahili lessons are included in the orientation as well as information on the safety, culture, and history of Tanzania, and guest lectures on gender issues, home-based care, and living with HIV. Volunteers will receive technical training in preparation for educating the local community about HIV/AIDS, health, and nutrition.

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.