Construction Associate For School

location
1 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 5  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Construct a School and Transform Lives in Nepal's Premier Volunteering Destination.
  • Immerse in Nepali Culture, Building with Locally Sourced Materials for a Sustainable Impact.
  • Merge Adventure and Sustainable Development in a Memorable Volunteering Experience.

Highlights

  • Construct a School and Transform Lives in Nepal's Premier Volunteering Destination.
  • Immerse in Nepali Culture, Building with Locally Sourced Materials for a Sustainable Impact.
  • Merge Adventure and Sustainable Development in a Memorable Volunteering Experience.
  • Fuel Personal Growth through Construction Expertise in a Unique Nepali Setting.
  • Empower Children, Forge Cherished Memories, and Have Incredible Fun Making a Lasting Difference.


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Ready to make a hands-on impact in the local community? Join us as a School Construction Assistant at the Aapswara Community Education Project! Help build the foundation

    Volunteering at the Aapswara Community Education Project offers an unparalleled adventure into the heart of sustainable construction. Living at the school and actively participating in construction projects provides a profound understanding of the challenges and rewards of rural development in a ...

    About the program

    Volunteering at the Aapswara Community Education Project offers an unparalleled adventure into the heart of sustainable construction. Living at the school and actively participating in construction projects provides a profound understanding of the challenges and rewards of rural development in a developing country, creating enduring memories and inspiring a future filled with purpose.

    Established in 2015, the Aapswara Community Education Project employs a model providing free, quality education to underprivileged students from village communities, aimed at addressing inequality in Nepalese society. Parents actively contribute by volunteering two days per month in agriculture and construction, forming a meaningful exchange for the education provided to their children.

    Welcoming over 60 children across six classes, our small school ensures that your presence as a construction volunteer makes a significant impact.

    Your role involves engaging in various construction projects and working alongside local community members to build essential infrastructure. Accompanied by skilled local workers, your involvement facilitates effective communication and collaboration.

    Importance of Our Program

    Our construction volunteer program holds immense significance as it directly addresses the pressing social issue of inadequate infrastructure in rural Nepalese schools. Established in 2015, the Aapswara Community Education Project strives to provide a conducive learning environment through sustainable construction. By addressing infrastructure gaps, we contribute to creating a more equitable and empowered society.

    Social Issues We Face

    One of the primary challenges we tackle is the lack of proper school infrastructure in rural areas. Many children in these communities face barriers that hinder their access to quality education. Additionally, issues related to poverty, limited resources, and the need for sustainable development are integral aspects of our mission.

    How We Solve These Issues

    Our construction program actively involves the local community, fostering collaboration in building essential infrastructure. Through this joint effort, we break down barriers and empower the community to actively participate in shaping the learning environment for their children. By providing sustainable construction solutions, we address not only infrastructure disparities but also contribute to the overall development of the community.

    Expectations from Construction Volunteers

    We welcome construction volunteers who are passionate about making a positive impact on the infrastructure and learning environment of our school. While specific construction skills are beneficial, what matters most is a genuine commitment to community development. Construction volunteers can expect to play a pivotal role in various projects, contributing to the overall well-being of the school and community.

    What Construction Volunteers Can Expect from Us

    Construction volunteers can anticipate an immersive experience where they directly contribute to shaping the school's infrastructure and, in turn, the educational experience for underprivileged children. We provide support, guidance, and a collaborative environment, ensuring a meaningful and impactful stay. Construction volunteers will gain insights into the construction practices of rural Nepal, creating lasting memories and inspiration for the future.

    1. Meaningful Construction Engagement: Construction volunteers can expect to play a pivotal role in shaping the infrastructure of the school, directly impacting the learning environment for underprivileged children.

    2. Cultural Immersion in Construction Practices: Experience the beauty and challenges of rural life in a developing country through hands-on construction projects. Immerse yourself in local construction practices, gaining insights into sustainable construction solutions.

    3. Supportive Construction Environment: Aapswara Community Education Project provides a supportive environment for construction volunteers. Our team, including skilled workers, is dedicated to ensuring your comfort, safety, and overall well-being throughout your volunteering journey.

    4. Inspiration for Future Construction Endeavors: Engage in construction activities that go beyond building, offering inspiration for your personal and professional future in construction projects. Witnessing the positive impact on the school and community can be a source of motivation and fulfillment.

    5. Beautiful Surroundings in a Construction Context: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the serene setting atop a hill, providing a unique backdrop to your construction volunteering experience.

    6. Flexibility in Construction Involvement: Aapswara Community Education Project understands the importance of a balanced construction volunteer experience. The schedule allows for free time, ensuring that construction volunteers can explore the surroundings, relax, or engage in personal activities during weekends.

    7. Nourishing Nepali Cuisine for Construction Volunteers: Relish the flavors of typical Nepali food, starting each day with a hearty and energizing breakfast. Experience the richness of local cuisine, adding a delightful dimension to your cultural immersion. Our commitment includes providing three meals a day, complemented by a morning tea, ensuring you savor the essence of Nepali culinary traditions throughout your construction volunteering stay.

    8. Accommodation for Construction Volunteers: Our accommodations feature single rooms, providing a personal space for your stay. You can choose between single beds or a double bed for couples, with metal and wooden frames. Each room ensures access to electricity, proper ventilation, and protection from the elements. We provide pillows, blankets, and bedsheets to enhance your comfort during your time at Aapswara Community Education Project.

    9. Showering and Laundry Details for Construction Volunteers: For showering, the water is typically cold, but we happily provide a bucket of hot water upon request. Laundry is a self-service task; however, if needed, paid laundry services can be arranged to meet your construction volunteering requirements. We strive to make your stay both comfortable and accommodating.

    10. Open Communication for Construction Volunteers: Construction volunteers can expect open and transparent communication. Any queries, concerns, or suggestions are welcomed, fostering a collaborative and constructive construction volunteer environment.

    11. Opportunities for Additional Involvement in Construction Projects:  Beyond your primary construction responsibilities, volunteers have the option to engage in various agricultural and additional construction projects. Contribute to the sustainable organic garden, participate in seasonal plantations, and get involved in creative construction work. Opportunities also exist for painting, repair, and maintenance.

    12. A Lasting Impact through Construction Volunteering: Construction volunteers can anticipate leaving a lasting impact on the infrastructure of the school and the lives of the children and the community. Your dedication to sustainable construction and community empowerment contributes to the long-term development of Aapswara.

    Location
    Situated atop a hill with a breathtaking view of the Himalayas, our location provides a picturesque setting. We're a 45-minute tuk-tuk ride from Damauli, the capital city of the Tanahun district. Transportation options, including a village tuk-tuk and a local bus six times a day, make city visits or breaks easily accessible.

    Other Construction Opportunities
    Construction volunteers can also explore various agricultural and additional construction projects at the school. Tasks include maintaining a sustainable organic garden, and seasonal plantation, and contributing to the development of our school construction location. Engage in creative construction work, from infrastructural projects to building fences and supporting the overall construction development. Opportunities also exist for painting, repair, and maintenance.

    No Special Equipment Required
    No special equipment is required for construction volunteers; we provide the necessary resources for construction projects. Enthusiasm, adaptability, and a willingness to connect with the community are your most valuable assets as a construction volunteer.

    Volunteers Need to Bring
    Construction volunteers need to bring their own:
    1. Medicines (if needed)
    2. Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)
    3. Toilet Paper, Tissues, Napkins, etc.
    4. Headlamp/Torch
    5. Water Bottle/Thermos Flask

    Typical day

    Project Schedule:

    Sunday to Friday Lunchtime: Construction sessions run from Sunday to Friday lunchtime, allowing volunteers to immerse themselves fully in building projects and engaging with the community during the week.

    Weekends: Free for Relaxation or Exploration: Weekends are free for volunteers ...

    Typical day

    Project Schedule:

    Sunday to Friday Lunchtime: Construction sessions run from Sunday to Friday lunchtime, allowing volunteers to immerse themselves fully in building projects and engaging with the community during the week.

    Weekends: Free for Relaxation or Exploration: Weekends are free for volunteers to either relax and enjoy the serene surroundings of the construction site or venture out to explore the beauty of the surrounding areas.

    A Day in the Life:

    Wake Up in the Ambiance of Construction: Begin your day by waking up amidst the sounds of construction and the promise of creating positive change in the community, providing a unique and impactful experience depending on the day's tasks.

    9 am - Breakfast: Energize yourself with a hearty Nepali breakfast, setting the tone for the day with local flavors and warmth, providing a cultural and culinary immersion.

    10 am - Morning Planning: Join in a planning session to discuss the day's construction activities, ensuring a coordinated effort and a sense of community among volunteers.

    10:45 am - 2:35 pm - Construction Sessions: Dive into the heart of the day with construction sessions. Each activity, whether building infrastructure, maintaining structures, or contributing to development projects, allows volunteers to make a direct and tangible impact on the community.

    1:05 pm - Lunch Break: Enjoy a leisurely lunch break, savoring more Nepali delicacies, and engaging in conversations with fellow construction volunteers and local community members, creating a communal and enjoyable atmosphere.

    1:35 pm - 3:35 pm - Afternoon Construction: Resume construction activities with afternoon sessions, covering a range of tasks and projects. The schedule allows for a comprehensive and engaging construction experience for both volunteers and the community.

    3:05 pm - Break: Take a break to relax or engage in personal activities, providing moments of rest and personal time amid the construction efforts.

    3:35 pm - 4:05 pm - Planning for Next Day: Engage in planning for the next day's construction activities, fostering collaboration and ensuring a coordinated and efficient effort.

    Weekends:

    Flexibility for Relaxation or Exploration: Weekends offer the flexibility to either enjoy the serene atmosphere of the construction site or venture out to explore the surrounding areas, allowing construction volunteers to make the most of their unique and fulfilling experience in contributing to sustainable development.


    Free-time activities

    Many activities are available around the school:

    • Walk from the school to Chaabdi Barahi Temple through the "jungle ways"
    • Visit Bandipur (traditional village famous for its authentic houses and sunrises above the clouds). You can walk back from Bandipur to Chaabdi Barahi Temple.
    • Visit Pokhara, the ...

    Free-time activities

    Many activities are available around the school:

    • Walk from the school to Chaabdi Barahi Temple through the "jungle ways"
    • Visit Bandipur (traditional village famous for its authentic houses and sunrises above the clouds). You can walk back from Bandipur to Chaabdi Barahi Temple.
    • Visit Pokhara, the tourist attraction center of Nepal offering a wide range of activities and adventures (paragliding, canoe, trekking, parties etc...)
    • Go to Manungkot, another amazing place to see the Himalayas above the clouds
    • Participate in local celebrations (our volunteers are frequently invited to the celebrations of students' families)
    • And others to discover by yourself!


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (fluently)

    Education Requirements

    High School in any stream at High School level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Copy of passport and Letter of Intent

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 10:00 - 16:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Mutual Development Org

    Comprehensive Fee Coverage:

    The fees encompass accommodation and organic food sourced from our garden and the local market. Additionally, they cover electricity and internet services, contributing to the overall comfort of your stay. Importantly, these fees play a crucial role in supporting our dedicated staff and facilitating our ongoing construction and happiness projects.

    As a school committed to providing free education, we solely rely on the generosity of volunteers and donations from individuals and organizations to sustain our operations. Your contributions through fees directly contribute to the continued success of our mission, ensuring the vitality of our educational initiatives and community projects.

    Accommodation

    We currently have three bedrooms available for volunteers, each equipped with a bed frame, futon, pillow, bed sheets, blankets, mosquito net, and a storage cabinet for your clothes. Each bedroom is secure with a lock for your privacy. While we provide all the necessary amenities, we recommend a sleeping bag during the winter months (October - March) for added comfort.

    You may have your own bedroom or share it with another volunteer. Our recent efforts, led by volunteers and our construction team, have resulted in the construction of two showers and two western toilets, providing private and comfortable spaces for your use. However, if you wish to experience the traditional methods, we also offer the option of using buckets of water for washing and squatting toilets. Your comfort and preferences are our priority, ensuring a tailored experience during your stay.

    Food & Beverages

    Indulge in the flavors of typical Nepalese cuisine served daily for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Our meals feature staples like rice, lentil soup (dal bhat), soya balls, vegetables, and an array of spices. We occasionally incorporate meat and eggs. All our vegetables are organically sourced, either from our garden or nearby markets. 

    Muna, our skilled cook, expertly combines spices and vegetables to craft delicious, homely meals. If there's a specific ingredient you crave, like cheese, meat, eggs, or fruits, you can purchase it in Damauli and either prepare it yourself or request Muna to incorporate it into the meal. 

    On Friday or Saturday nights, we treat ourselves to special dishes such as momos, a delightful culinary experience you're sure to love. In winter, we gather around a fire, creating a cozy ambiance for cooking, eating, engaging in conversations, and enjoying good music. Our water supply, piped from the nearby jungle to the school and village, is meticulously filtered and stored in large jars, ensuring a clean and refreshing source for your consumption. Your dining experience with us promises not only nourishment but also a cultural journey into the heart of Nepalese culinary traditions.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Tribhuvan International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. We assist you to find cheap flights to Nepal. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Nepal provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Nepal you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Nepal. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Year-Round Opportunities for Volunteers:

    Volunteers are encouraged to join us at any time of the year. Upon confirmation, we can assist in securing bus tickets from Kathmandu to Damauli, ensuring a hassle-free journey for volunteers. Your flexibility in choosing when to contribute is appreciated, and we look forward to welcoming you to the Aapswara Community Education Project.





    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    1 week (min. stay) 110€
    2 weeks 196€
    3 weeks 293€
    4 weeks 391€
    8 weeks 782€
    16 weeks 1,564€
    50 weeks (max. stay) 4,888€
    Average fees 104€/week

    Program fees

    104€ per week 1 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Mutual Development Org during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Mutual Development Org

    Outstanding 5 rating (16 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 2022

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Siddharth

    Spoken languages: English, Hindi, Nepali

    About the project

    MDO is a Nepal-based non-profit with a decade of impact in education, healthcare, and rights, led by a diverse team and excels in direct, efficient rural development.

    Meet your organization

    Who We Are

    Mutual Development Organization (MDO) is a dedicated non-profit organization that has been actively working for over a decade in the rural landscapes of Nepal. Our team is composed of enthusiastic young professionals from a wide range of disciplines including education, agriculture, medicine, engineering, and law. Each member brings their unique expertise and experiences, but we are all united by a singular passion for social development and empowering communities. Our approach is rooted in understanding the local context and needs, enabling us to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve.

    What We Do 

    At MDO, our work is centered around addressing critical challenges that impede the growth and well-being of rural communities in Nepal. Our projects are diverse, ranging from poverty alleviation initiatives and educational programs to healthcare improvement schemes and environmental sustainability efforts. We also put a strong emphasis on upholding and advocating for human rights. Our approach is hands-on; we believe in working directly with the communities, listening to their stories, understanding their challenges, and collaborating with them to develop tailored solutions. This close engagement allows us to create programs that are not only effective but also sustainable.

    Where We Work

    Our operations are based in rural districts like Tanahun, where the beauty of Nepal's natural landscape is contrasted with the challenges faced by its inhabitants. These communities, often sidelined by mainstream development efforts, are where our work is most needed. Each region we work in has its own unique culture, needs, and challenges, including varying safety and health considerations. We are deeply committed to the safety and well-being of our team and volunteers, providing them with comprehensive support and guidance to navigate these challenges effectively.

    Our Mission/Vision

    Our mission at MDO is to create lasting, impactful change in Nepal's underprivileged communities. We strive to create an environment where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential and lead a life of dignity. Our vision is a Nepal where every community, no matter how remote, has access to the resources and opportunities needed for self-sufficiency and sustainable development. We believe that empowering these communities is key to building a more equitable and prosperous Nepal.

    Our Goals

    Our goals are ambitious but achievable. We aim to significantly reduce poverty levels in the areas we work in, making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. We strive to make education more accessible to all, believing that knowledge is a critical tool for empowerment. Enhancing local healthcare services is also a priority, ensuring communities have access to the care they need. Furthermore, we are committed to promoting environmental conservation, recognizing the critical role a healthy environment plays in sustainable development. Lastly, we work tirelessly to support and protect the rights of the communities we engage with, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.

    Who Are We Looking For

    MDO is looking for passionate individuals ready to make a difference. Whether you are a seasoned professional with skills to share, a student eager to learn and contribute, or someone driven by a desire to volunteer and make a meaningful impact, you have a place with us. We value diversity, believing that a wide range of perspectives and skills only strengthens our ability to enact change. We seek individuals who are not only committed to our mission but are also adaptable, collaborative, and ready to face the unique challenges of working in rural development.

    Why Choose Us

    Choosing to volunteer with MDO is choosing to be a part of a significant, positive change in some of the most beautiful yet underserved regions of the world. Our focus on efficient, grassroots involvement offers an experience that is not only deeply fulfilling but also incredibly impactful. As a volunteer with MDO, you will have the opportunity to work closely with local communities, gaining an unparalleled understanding of the challenges they face and how you can help overcome them. You will be part of a team that values your contribution, supports your growth, and is united in a common goal: to build a better, more equitable future for rural Nepal.

    16 reviews · rating5

    Lisa Desnoues rating5

    2024 at Teacher for School Kids

    I had such a great time working with MDO. I spent 5 weeks at the village and helped with the construction and agriculture. I dug, painted, planted, watered the garden, helped building new toilets and showers, cut grass in the jungle for the goats and did so many other little jobs. I loved it! As all ...
    Ivan Perez rating5

    2023 at Teacher for School Kids

    I was very lucky to be able to spend days at this school, it was my first volunteer job and it completely exceeded my expectetions. The work the team behind MDO do comes from their pure heart, having in mind the kids, all the people living in the surrounding villages and the ...
    Himal McCarthy rating5

    2023 at Teacher for School Kids

    Having finished my bachelors of arts at UCLA, volunteering with MDO was an opportunity to bring my knowledge from theory to practice. For the duration of my time working with the school I taught students English and Grammar subjects from years 1 to 3. What was most impactful was the fact that every ...
    Lorenzo Iorio rating5

    2023 at Teacher for School Kids

    I stayed with Sid and his family, it was great to be able to help in some way this wonderful school, wonderful people, beautiful and calm landscape! I recommend to ...
    Circé Vixège rating5

    2023 at Teacher for School Kids

    When you start your journey there you enter a family. You're about to make friends and memories for a life time. You can help with the animals, the education, the construction and many other every day things. You'll discover the beauty of Nepal, the kindness of villagers and the good taste of Muna's ...
    Julia Mortarotti rating5

    2023 at Teacher for School Kids

    I went to Damauli few months ago. Sid welcomed us like part of the family. The place is beautiful but what made this experience nothing short of wonderful were the children and the teachers, now friends. I left a piece of my heart in that place and I will certainly return one day to see how things ...

    Location

    Asia > Southern Asia > Nepal > Damauli

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    Contact Siddharth
      Excellent response rate
    English, Hindi, Nepali

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