Volunteer Teaching in The Gambia

  Gambia

Rural Areas

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months
Dates: 2-6 months

Description: Gambia is one of the most pleasant spots for a volunteer to spend time in Africa. One can experience the real Africa, the noise, the drums, the heat, the dust and, best of all, the friendly village people. And, just a short distance away, the rolling surf of the Atlantic, with water temperature around 28°C.

Currently MondoChallenge volunteers are working at three schools in The Gambia. The first is a small primary school set up with funding from VSO in the village of Kunkujang, the second is a school based in another small village in an area called Makumbaya, and one other based further South in the town of Bulok. Volunteers assist these schools by dividing the classes into smaller groups and by providing support and English practise to the local staff.

The children are responsive and welcoming and the need is for enthusiasm and commitment from our volunteers, rather than formal qualifications. We offer an optional weekend short course in Oxford for those who feel they need extra teaching support. Qualified teachers are also welcome as they can assist with local teacher training.

All of our projects are community based giving volunteers the ability to learn from, as well as help the local people.

Dolores Nnadi, from England (Kunkujang School) "I feel really happy and at peace here, its one of the best experiences of my life and I wouldn't miss it for anything!!"

Highlights: The country is made up of Mandinka tribe there is a large Fula community and some Jolla, Wolof and Manjango families. The majority of families are Muslim with a small Christian presence. Everyone is extremely friendly and there is a wonderful, laid-back atmosphere.

It is a particularly friendly country where greetings are exchanged with everyone who you meet along your travels. The children are forever smiling and are great fun to teach. Families live in compounds where old and young help with daily chores.

Qualifications:
*A good level of general education
*A good knowledge of the English language
*flexibility
*cultural interest
*ability to cope in a rural environment

Cost in US$: from GBP1,190 for 1 month ( around USD 1,943)

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 35. Couples and families are welcome. Travel with a family member and the second member gets 50% off your programme. Travel with a friend and save 10% of your programme cost. Approximately 50% of our volunteers are non-UK based, with a large number of volunteers from North America, Europe and Australia. 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 Gambia 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-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

MondoChallenge's Mission Statement: MondoChallenge is an ethical organisation which organises overseas volunteer placements for people seeking a career or pre retirement break. We promote sustainable development in local communities with over 100 exciting projects in 21 thrilling locations and 9 amazing countries. Projects range from Business support & Livelihood, Community development, Health & Care Work, Teaching and many more. Projects are offered in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and South America. So, go ahead..take a break ! Explore a new country and do your bit for the world

Year Founded: 2001