The project particularly welcomes applications from people who are studying or have studied anthropology, biological/environmental studies or science, African studies, international relations and other related courses. The project is also suitable for people interested in a future in not-for-profit organisations, NGOs, conservation, sustainable development or humanitarian causes. Although  volunteers are not required to have previous experience or knowledge in these areas, people with interest in these fields will make ideal candidates. 

All volunteers will need to be:

• Flexibile 
• Team players
• Reasonably physically fit
• Able to "rough it" 

The Project

As a grassroots development organisation the charity works directly with local communities ensuring that the work is requested by, as well as being useful to, the people of Madagascar. Although there is  a skilled and dedicated team made up of Malagasy and non-Malagasy staff in the south-east of the country, much of the work is dependent upon our volunteers.

Over the course of the Programme, as a volunteer you will have the opportunity to learn how a small NGO operates and the inherent challenges that it faces when working in a developing country. More specifically you will be working on  projects in the field and gaining understanding of the resource needs of impoverished village communities and how this impacts on conservation efforts.
You will work in three interrelated areas over the course of the Programme:
 
• Sustainable livelihoods capacity development
• Health-based infrastructure and education
• Habitat and species conservation
  Some examples of projects that you will  may work on are:
 
• Active conservation of some of the world's most endangered endemic tree species
• Health and sanitation work including building wells and latrines
• Raising health and hygiene awareness - typically working with children in rural areas on crucial issues like nutrition, hand-washing and malaria
• Building and equipping schools
• Teaching English to school children and unemployed adults in rural areas
• Environmental education in remote villages
• Sustainable income-generating activities such as beekeeping and community vegetable gardens
• Development of sustainable agriculture
• Community forest conservation
 
 In the past two years, Pioneers have built 8 schools together with furniture, a well for clean drinking water and boys and girls latrines, allowing access to education for over 2,000 children who previously had extremely limited educational opportunities.
 In the rural commune of Mahatalaky, 30% of people now have access to clean drinking water. 
10,000 seedlings of two critically endangered species, Beccariophoenix madagascariensis and Dypsis saintelucei are now established in the charity's nurseries.

The programme is led by some of the most competent conservation and development workers on the island and are entirely based on communities' expressed needs. You will be an integral part of the team and gain an insight into real grassroots conservation and development.

Camping facilities are provided throughout the programme, although volunteers do need to bring their own tent. Facilities are basic but there will always be latrine and private washing facilities. Electricity and piped water are available when in Fort Dauphin, however in the field, water is collected and then treated from rivers and wells.

All meals are provided throughout the placement. Meals mainly consist of rice, beans, vegetables and fruit. Fish (or eggs for vegetarians) are provided when possible. All meals are prepared and cooked by the group, often in open-air facilities. The best possible treated drinking water is always available.

£2000 for 10 weeks

Additional weeks  are costed at a sliding reducing rate
Please note these costs are correct to the best of our knowledge but can only be confirmed at time of booking due to changes in transport and taxes outside our control.

Includes: 
• A personal contact from the charity in the London office who you can contact at any time with any questions 
• airport pick up  and in-country travel costs whilst on the scheme
• Full training in all aspects of project work
• All meals for the full eight weeks
• Use of campsite facilities
• A dedicated team to guide you in Madagascar
• Orientation and language classes upon arrival  pre-placement briefings together with support throughout your placement

Not included:
flights, insurance, visa costs, personal expenses such as phone calls, medical expenses, etc.