CARE International is a global federation of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) with the common goal to fight poverty. CARE works in over 90 countries worldwide, both in emergency response and development cooperation. In partnership with local organizations, CARE works for social justice through strengthening the capacity for self-help, promoting economic opportunities and influencing policies that affect the most marginalized.
CARE has worked in Lao PDR since 1993 and is focusing on improving the livelihoods of ethnic women in remote areas as well as of socially marginalized women in urban areas. This volunteer opportunity is intended to support the Remote Ethnic Women (REW) programme implemented in Phongsaly, the most Northern Province of Lao PDR.
What is this volunteer opportunity about? A volunteer English teacher is sought to build English language skills of the local CARE team in Phongsaly province. As CARE works with remote communities who speak a variety of ethnic languages, most of our staff is local. Their background is in agriculture, health or community development and they speak two to three local and regional languages but no or limited English. English language skills are of great importance for young Lao people, especially when working in an international organization. We are looking for a volunteer to hold classes from beginner to intermediate level at flexible times.
Why would you want to apply for this? Phongsaly is a unique place, at the crossroads of Lao, Vietnam and China, located far from the usual tourist routes. Working with the team here will provide you a unique opportunity to learn about Lao culture, living with people between 20 and 35 years old from different ethnic backgrounds. You will also be able to accompany the team on their fieldwork to remote villages or take time off for travelling by yourself. You will be able to practice your teaching skills.
When and how long? July to September is the rainy season in Lao. This is when the team is less busy with fieldwork (and most available for English classes), as the roads become slippery and difficult to travel on. We would like someone to stay for 6-8 weeks during that time; however, the exact timing can be discussed on an individual basis.
Will you be paid? Unfortunately, we cannot offer salary or reimbursement for international travel. However, we cover travel within Lao PDR and once in Phongsaly you can live in the CARE staff house, which will minimize your living costs.
Who can apply? We would prefer students who are in their second or third year and already have some experience in teaching. People who visited developing countries before will find it easier to adapt to Northern Lao.
How do I apply? Simply by sending your CV and letter of interest, explaining your experience in teaching and ideas for teaching CARE staff, to the Northern Provinces Coordinator Ms. Katharina Auer (katharina.auer@careint.org) until June 5th. The decision will be taken until mid June in time to start the visa process (facilitated by CARE). For any questions on the programme, conditions of location, please contact the same email address.
My name is Tamara and I’m studying English and American Studies at the University of Vienna. I come from Serbia, so I can also offer you information in Serbian/Bosnian/Croatian. Since I’m half way through my BA degree, I would like to offer my support and advice to all of you who are considering studying at our department or have already started. If you don’t feel informed enough and need explaining or organizing your schedule, feel free to ask! 