Health & Education Program

  Nepal

• Kathmandu: 
Kathmandu
• Pokhara: 
Pokhara

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months
Dates: The programme starts on the 1st and 15th day of each month (Year-Round)

Description: Approximately 40% of the Nepalese population lives below the poverty line, where health education and provision are often limited. As a result, there is always a need for professional medical staff to assist across the country.

The Medical and Health programme gives qualified medical staff the chance to work in large general hospitals, maternity clinics, children's hospitals, HIV/AIDS wards, alternative-medicine clinics, community clinics and rural health posts in and around Kathmandu.

Working alongside doctors, nurses and other clinic staff, your time will be divided between assisting medical staff in the treatment of patients and education programs in HIV/AIDS, sanitation, nutrition and basic health care.

The division of time between gaining hands on experience with doctors and nurses and on educational programmes will vary depending on the nature of your qualifications and experience. In addition to established health posts, your medical expertise may also be required in other areas, namely the orphanages in and around Kathmandu. The educational programmes will provide you with a real challenge, as you will take responsibility for setting up some of these programmes and taking them into the community. There are some subjects that are taboo, but you will be well briefed during your training period. You should anticipate working approximately 6 - 10 hours per day, as you may need to travel to rural areas to conduct your work. There are obviously opportunities for days off, and these are arranged with your supervisor when you first start. Any medical supplies that you are able to take with are always well received.

*It is extremely helpful to the Health Education Programme to do fundraising for medical supplies/materials before they reach Nepal. CCSV-Nepal will do what we can to support the care to the Nepali communities, however, noting that we are an extremely grassroots not-for-profit organization, our funds are very limited. It may be helpful if they will bring resources.

Highlights: Volunteers have ultimate control and choice once they are in Nepal. All volunteers will receive initial training after arriving in Kathmandu. The training is designed to help Volunteer settle into Nepal life and to ensure Volunteers are fully prepared for their placement.

Due to the nature of the medical qualifications required for these placements, all placements are effectively tailor-made for each volunteer depending on their qualifications and experience.

*All placements are very flexible giving you the opportunity to take some time off and explore Nepal and some of the world famous attractions. You could go rafting on the Tibetan border, trekking the Annapurna circuit, maybe Himalayan river kayaking, join the Royal tiger and elephant safari, or try the longest free-fall bungee jump in the world.

Qualifications: Volunteers full resume will be required in order to access your suitability to the role and this will need to be submitted along with your application to the health education program.

There is a 6-weeks minimum requirement for participants in the health education program due to the type of work involved. This specific program requires a lot of experience in the health field and also good organizational skills. This program is not ongoing in that there are not regular classes in Nepal related to health education so often Volunteers will be required to set up classes and even encourage the local people to attend. Those with medical experience may have the opportunity to have hands on experience in Nepal however this will be dependant on what is available at the time you volunteer.

Minimum Education: Diploma/Certification

Cost in US$: US $650

Experience Required: yes

Eligibility & Skills Required: * Medical placements are subject to qualifications and experience. * All types of medical qualifications are eligible to apply. * Medical students are welcomed. * Volunteers need to be independent, enthusiastic and adaptable

Age Range: Must be 18 years old and above

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Nepal Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Resume
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

Center for Cultural Studies & Volunteering-Nepal's Mission Statement: Our mission to provide humanitarian aid to local communities within Nepal through volunteerism, advocacy, and education. We endeavor to help women and children in underdeveloped communities to develop knowledge and skills that they can use to improve their lives and the lives of other in their communities, schools and local organizations.

Year Founded: 2005