Unique Project - Tanzania

About the project

Working Hours

You’ll work approximately Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm. This may vary slightly depending on which school you're placed at and whether you're combining projects.

Colleagues / Who You’ll Work With

You’ll work alongside local teachers and other volunteers.

Language Spoken at the Project

English is the main language spoken at the project. Most locals are reasonably well educated and generally speak English fairly well.

Holiday Periods

Volunteers are welcome year-round. However, there is a long school holiday in January, during which this education project does not run.

Accommodation

At the volunteer house, there’s a kitchen where volunteers can prepare their own meals with produce bought at the local market. Our house helper can also cook for you. There is a fridge and all basic kitchen utensils. Volunteers can also choose to eat out at one of the many nearby restaurants.

For volunteers who prefer to stay with a host family and cook together with them, that’s also possible, although in most cases, host families will prepare meals for volunteers.

We currently don’t offer WiFi, but a local SIM card can be purchased for less than $2 AUD, and unlimited 4G data can be added for less than $10 AUD per week or about $30 AUD per month.

There are separate dorm-style rooms for male and female volunteers, and common areas and western-style toilets are shared.

Accommodation is simple, and power outages are common in Tanzania. Most rural homes do not have running water, especially during dry seasons. Bottled water is easily available for drinking. Laundry is done by hand by volunteers themselves or can be done by the house helper for a small fee. Bedding (pillows and sheets) is provided, but volunteers are advised to bring their own towels and mosquito nets.

Transport to and from the Project

Volunteers either walk from the volunteer house to the project or take a local minibus (dala dala).

Supplies the Project Could Use

If you have some extra space in your luggage and would like to bring something for the project, it would be greatly appreciated. Please check in with us first to find out what items are most useful.

Pickup Service

You’ll be picked up from the airport and stay one night in Dar es Salaam. The next day, someone from the organisation will take you to the bus station, and you’ll travel together to Iringa by bus. You’ll first be brought to the volunteer house where you can settle in, unpack, meet the other volunteers, and receive your on-site orientation.

We can also arrange your return trip, but these costs are not included in the program fee. The arrival journey is included. The return trip with hotel accommodation costs $150

Free Time

Be sure to check out our optional trips to see what you can do during your free time! We offer some amazing excursions and since you’re already in such a beautiful country, it’s a great opportunity to explore more of what Tanzania has to offer.

Your Contact Person

Bovan is your local contact in Tanzania.

Volunteer profile

For this project, we’re looking for dedicated volunteers with a passion for education and child development. We believe education is the key to a better future, and your contribution can have a lasting impact on the lives of many children.

This project in Tanzania is especially suitable for volunteers aged between 17 and 29. For those older than 29, the project in Ilula may be a better fit.

Qualities That Matter

Passion for Education and Child Development
We’re looking for volunteers who care deeply about education and the wellbeing of children. While experience in teaching, childcare or a related field is a bonus, the most important thing is a genuine enthusiasm and willingness to support children’s learning.

Initiative and Proactiveness
The ability to work independently and take initiative is crucial. You’ll often need to think on your feet and come up with creative solutions to unexpected challenges. A proactive attitude not only helps with problem-solving, but also creates a more engaging and effective learning environment.

Patience
Patience is an essential trait when working with children. Every child learns at their own pace and in their own way. It’s important to remain calm and supportive, even when progress seems slow. Your patience and persistence can make a world of difference in a child’s learning experience.

Cultural Sensitivity
Working in a different cultural context requires respect and understanding for local customs and traditions. Being open-minded and willing to learn from the culture around you is key to a successful placement and a meaningful experience for both you and the community.

Flexibility and Adaptability
Conditions in Tanzania may be very different from what you’re used to. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to new situations are important. This applies to both the living conditions and your work environment.

Communication Skills
Strong communication skills are essential, both when working with children and when collaborating with colleagues and local community members. Being able to express yourself clearly and respectfully helps build a positive and productive atmosphere.

Team Spirit
Our education project is a team effort, and collaboration is key to its success. A positive attitude and willingness to work alongside others, including local teachers and volunteers from diverse backgrounds are crucial to achieving our goals.

What You Can Expect

As a volunteer in this project, you’ll take part in a range of educational activities. These include helping with classroom lessons, supporting local teachers, organising extracurricular activities, and assisting with the development of teaching materials. You’ll play a valuable role in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment for children.

Living and working in Tanzania will give you the chance to make a real difference. Not only in the lives of children, but in your own personal growth as well. You’ll immerse yourself in new cultures, make lifelong friendships, and enjoy experiences you’ll never forget.

If you’re passionate about education and helping children grow, and you’re ready to take on a rewarding challenge, then this education project in Tanzania is the perfect opportunity for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of these young learners.

For parents

We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.

Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.

We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.

Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.

We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.

You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.

If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team

Costs

Average Cost for a 5 week stay: $410/week

• 1 week: $649

• 2 weeks of volunteering: $1219

• Each additional week: $278

*All prices are in AUD. 

What's Included in the Price:

Before Departure

• Online introductory meeting

• Information pack with details about Tanzanian culture and customs, as well as a checklist to help you prepare, including advice on insurance, money matters and travel tips

• Pre-departure training

• Assistance with applying for your Police Check (VOG)

• Access to our online community

• Help with your visa application

• Support with booking your flight (if requested)

During Your Trip

• Airport transfer to the project, including one hotel overnight stay

• On-site introduction

• Help with extending your visa (if needed)

• Guidance and support throughout your entire stay

• Accommodation in the volunteer house

After Your Trip

• End-of-program evaluation

• Certificate of participation (upon request)

• Ongoing access to our WhatsApp community

• Memories for life!

Not Included in the Price:

• Return flight

• Vaccinations

• Visa

• Police Check (VOG)

• Travel insurance