Teaching in Buddhist Temple Schools, Sri Lanka

  Sri Lanka

Kandy

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 9-12 weeks
Dates: Flexible

Description: We have been working in Sri Lanka since 2002 and current projects focus on community-based teaching.

In the beautiful hill region of Kandy, MondoChallenge volunteers are working in various rural Buddhist temples.

These temples provide not only a place to worship but also a community centre. In Manikhinna, Digana, Sarasavigama and Ranawane, volunteers work in pre-schools and primary education while in Pilimathalawa, volunteers offer primary school and adult education classes involving many of the monks. Volunteers also help out at Bowalawatte School, Dharmashoka School and a Buddhist orphanage at Sarana Sevana. We have also been working, since the tsunami of 2004, with communities on the south coast, providing teaching support as well as helping local people to develop and sustain livelihoods.

Douglas King, from UK (Pilimatalava)
"There cannot be a friendlier place in the world. Working with different groups, and living with monks within a temple compound has given me a unique insight into the culture and life here."

Satya Byock, from USA (Menikhinna)
"I had an absolutely incredible, wonderful time here and don't know how I am going to leave. The temple has given me peace of mind that I will be able to carry with me for the rest of my life."

Highlights: For the volunteer, this is an opportunity to immerse oneself into the rich Buddhist culture, to witness some stunningly beautiful landscapes, and to enjoy the friendliness and gentleness of the Sri Lankans.

Qualifications:
-A good level of general education
-A good knowledge of the English language
-flexibility
-cultural interest
-ability to cope in a rural environment
This placement is ideal for volunteers who have interest in Buddhism

Cost in US$: $1500+

Salary / Pay: Volunteers make a small financial contribution to help the development of our projects world wide.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: The average age of a Mondo volunteer is 32. Couples and families are welcome and receive a 15% discount (this also applies to friends travelling together). Approximately 50% of our volunteers are non-UK based, with a large number of volunteers from North America, Europe and Austrailia. Our volunteers have a good level of general education and are enthusiastic, culturally aware, adaptable and highly motivated.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Sri Lanka Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of 2-3

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

MondoChallenge's Mission Statement: MondoChallenge is an ethical, non profit organisation which sends volunteers (gap year, university & post university, career break, early retired) to help with development programmes in Africa, Asia and South America. Operating alongside the MondoChallenge Foundation (which funds development at grassroots level), our volunteers are community based and their normal stay is from 1-6 months. Activities include teaching, business development and eco-tourism.

Year Founded: 2001