Description

Though English is the international language and the second language of Tanzania, very few Maasai are able to speak English. The majority of Maasai families recognize the importance of learning even a little English, but there is a great shortage of English speaking teachers. Volunteers teach English in local primary and secondary schools and assist with other subjects as well as extracurricular activities. The schools in Maasailand have very basic facilities and large class sizes. Schools are on holiday during the month of July and November through January. During these months volunteers can still contribute by assisting with upkeep projects on the school grounds such as painting classrooms, repairing buildings and planting trees. The classrooms are in constant need of painting due to the erosion caused by the constant dust.

Highlights

The diversity within Tanzania is stunning. the country is home to over 120 ethnic groups, the equatorial snows of Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti plains teeming with wildlife, and the white sand beaches of Arab and Indian influenced Dar es Salaam. ELI works with organizations within three distinct communities in Tanzania: the Meru Community in the village of Tengeru on the flanks of Mt. Meru, the multicultural city, Dar es Salaam, and the Maasai community in the village of Elkurot north of Arusha town.

Please note that Maasai projects are only for the most adventurous travelers. Conditions are extremely basic. Volunteers working in Maasai Land will stay in a local style mud hut, a typical Maasai abode. Maasai host families do not have running water or electricity.

This is a rare opportunity to experience a traditional way of life.

Qualifications

Native or near-native English fluency.

Languages

• English
• Swahili

Cost in US$:

Starting at USD 795 for 2 weeks. Contact us for details.

Cost Includes:

• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Registration fees
• Written materials pre-departure
• Food
• Housing

Program Fees Include:

Pre-departure Support: ELI's staff is very knowledgeable and happy to help volunteers and interns to prepare for their travels.

Airport Pickup: Volunteers are met at the Kilimanjaro airport and provided with transportation to the volunteer house

In-country Orientation: Each volunteer program starts with a two to three day orientation which covers important topics on the logistics of living and working in Tanzania, city tours, and help with transportation.

In-country Staff Support: ELI's Tanzania coordinator has years of experience working with visitors to Tanzania. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

Accommodations: Volunteers will stay with a Maasai family in their traditional kraal or homestead. The accommodations are very basic. Host families do not have running water or electricity, and subsist off a simple diet. Participants must be prepared to adapt to the local conditions.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range

18 and up

This Program is open to

Worldwide, American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European and Kiwi Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Resume
• Written Application
• Online Application plus Application Assessment

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement

ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded

2001