Swaziland Volunteer Programme
FAQ's-If you have a question that is not dealt with, please ask it in the box below.
Is Swaziland a safe Country?
Swaziland is one of the few countries in Southern Africa which is politically stable and incredibly safe for visitors
Can we bring anything for the community/Donations
Yes but its always best to communicate with us first to check what the priority needs of the schools/ hospitals are.Because some of the things you can find here in Swaziland.Educational donations are often needed to pay for school fees and uniforms – a gift that can change a childs life
What qualifications do I need?
No qualifications are necessary - just reasonably well spoken English. No TEFL or teaching qualifications are needed for our teaching programs (although you are very welcome if you do happen to have them).
What age ranges take part in these projects?
For Medical students or qualified people it will depend on the experience you have and what level you are in at University.
What age group is expected?
Volunteers are welcome between the ages of 16 and 75. Many of our volunteers are between 18 and 25 years old, we encourage career breakers and retired people to take part.
Can I fundraise for this project?
Of course you can, although we certainly don't say that you have to. Request a Fundraising Guide once you've applied to get some ideas on the things that hospitals or schools may need.
What is the next step?
The next step is either to contact us for more information or, if you've decided definitely what you want to do, apply now.
Will I need injections?
This really depends on where you choose to go. As we are not medical experts we cannot give out official advice - so talk to your doctor, who will be happy to advise on what you may need. Don't let injections put you off - you'll be glad you had them once you are enjoying yourself with us in Swaziland
What is the duration of each placement ?
The volunteer placement is for 4 weeks total, 3 weeks is for working either in the hospital or school and then the last week is for traveling to South Africa Kruger Park and also North of Mozambique.
Will I be met at the airport?
Volunteers are met at the airport the day you arrive
Do women encounter any special problems while traveling?
Rarely. Swaziland but also we encourage them to dress properly so that they don’t attract un necessary attention for themselves , volunteers have to be aware of the cultural expectations. In general, you may get additional attention but this is hardly more serious than at home. Will I need injections? This really depends on where you choose to go. As we are not medical experts we cannot give out official advice - so talk to your doctor, who will be happy to advise on what you may need. Don't let injections put you off - you'll be glad you had them once you are enjoying yourself abroad!
Do you have teaching volunteer programmes
Yes we do have volunteer programmes. And volunteering in both Pre Schools (4-5 year olds) and also in primary schools (6-13 year olds) Please visit our site in the next few days as the whole information about school volunteering will we be added.
What is the support like overseas?
We will be here to help you in every way possible and assist you while you are with us. In Swaziland we have English-speaking and French speaking staff.It is our responsibility to set up placements, check out your accommodation, meet you at the airport and provide you with any support you need should any problems occur. We won't try to nanny you - but we will always be there, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During your placement you will also have a supervisor at your place of work. If you have difficulty teaching in class, if you really want to gain extra experience in a certain area of medicine - or whatever the problem or request may be - someone will be on hand to give you help and advice. Myxos together with the teachers will be there, and also doctors and nurses in charge of the medical programme.
When can I start? When should I apply?
You choose when your placement starts and finishes. Placements run all year. There are no definitive deadlines for application. We do generally need at least 1 month to comfortably process an application, but we like to receive your application form as far in advance as possible - so please apply as soon as you've decided what you want to do. The longer the notice, the more we can tailor a program. If you decide last minute, do give us a call to see how quickly we can arrange it for you.
What if I am ill?
If you are ill while overseas, Myxos will be able to advise you on where the best medical services can be found.You will receive information on this during your induction when you first arrive, and of course you can reach our staff by phone 24 hours a day if you fall ill.
What's the best way to keep in touch with home while I'm away?
All of our placements have access to Internet cafes accessible on weekends, though if you are placed in a rural area you may have to use Myxos Cell phone which will be able to use cheaper rates or he will arrange for you to get this type of serviceor by using your own cell phone after getting a Swazi sim card.
Where do I stay? Who do I stay with?
You must not expect western standards but the accommodation is good by local standards. You will be in mud huts and traditional huts in Swaziland . You may even be placed in the same accommodation or workplace as one or two other volunteers.
Will I be on my own or are there going to be other volunteers in the same area as me?
You will be located close to other volunteers so that, if you want to, you can meet, exchange ideas and stories, socialise and go on trips with others. Volunteers usually make good friends with each other and often decide to go traveling together after their placements. You will never be isolated especially that as this programme is run by local people you will be always with local people and be able to learn and share lots. You may even be placed in the same accommodation or workplace as one or two other volunteers. Although we cannot guarantee to meet all requests, please let us know if you have a preference regarding this.
Will there be an opportunity to travel when I'm there?
You will have weekends free. Volunteers often take this opportunity to go on trips to local places of interest. Many volunteers travel extensively after the end of their placements, often forming small groups with other volunteers or meeting other young travelers from backpackers places.
Can I extend my stay while overseas?
Yes. Depending on visa requirements and flight restrictions. This gives added flexibility. If you want to extend your placement.
What types of programs are available?
You can get involved in Teaching at primary school level and preschool also in the Local clinics
Where will I be volunteering?
This project is based within the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital, one of the 5 major regional hospitals in the country. RFM, as it is locally known, is run by the Church of the Nazarene. It has 350 beds with an occupancy rate of 65-70% per month. Around 400 clients visit the outpatients department on a daily basis. It provides medical, surgical, pediatrics, obstetrics, emergency and rehabilitative services. You will work closely with resident RFM doctors and other health professionals during your time at the hospital.
In country orientation will be provided?
In country orientation will be provided on arrival by Myxo. This will include Swazi culture and tradition, do’s and don’t’s, presentations from doctors regarding health care and related issues in the Swazi context, tour of RFM and basic language training, including medical terminology. Language training will be for one hour per day over a period of 5 days. Whilst English is the official business language in Swaziland it can make a big difference in developing relationships with people if you have the basics and English is not as widely spoken in the rural areas. A language manual will be sent to you prior to your arrival so that you have the chance to begin practising before you get to Swaziland .
What about meals?
Dinner and breakfast will be provided daily however volunteers are expected to assist with food preparation. The emphasis will be on local cuisine though special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
What about transport to and from RFM?
Transport will be provided.
What will I be doing?
Volunteers will be encouraged to work across all of the wards though the greatest shortages of skilled staff are in maternity, emergency, internal medicine and pediatrics. Work undertaken will be dependent on the skills and qualification of the volunteer. For students, there will be staff that work closely with you. You will not be left alone to carry out any medical/nursing duties.
