Photograph of Madagascar

Pioneer Madagascar Programme - Volunteering & Internship

Review Centre logo Read what our volunteers say Download application form: Pioneer Programme ( PDF version, Microsoft Word version), Internship

The Pioneer Madagascar programme is a volunteering initiative run by Azafady since 2001. Volunteers on the programme work on Azafady’s projects in the field, gaining an understanding of the resource needs of impoverished village communities and how this impacts on conservation efforts.

Camping in some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Madagascar, Pioneer volunteers work in three interrelated areas over the course of the programme:

  • sustainable livelihoods development;
  • health-based infrastructure and education; and
  • habitat conservation.

Typical projects include constructing wells and latrines, building and equipping schools, health and environmental education in rural areas, forest conservation, and sustainable income-generating activities such as bee-keeping and community vegetable gardens. For more details, see the Pioneer Madagascar Programme Guide.

You will receive an all-round experience in the workings of a small development agency, an excellent background for anyone wanting to pursue a career in development or conservation.

Pioneer Madagascar is also offered as an internship for those wishing to gain experience and/or credit for a college or university course. The Pioneer Madagascar programme is designed as a ten-week scheme although shorter periods (from five weeks) may be available by prior arrangement.

Get the application forms for the Pioneer Place ( PDF version, Microsoft Word version) or for an Internship or email info@azafady.org

Further Information

Downloads

The Guide to the Pioneer Madagascar Programme.

Application forms for a Pioneer Place ( PDF version, Microsoft Word version) or an Internship.

Azafady project work - photo

For an introduction to Azafady’s work and volunteering opportunities, watch our short film.

Although made in 2005, this still gives a good introduction to our work in Madagascar.

Award Winners

In November 2007 Azafady won the Best Volunteering Organisation category of the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards, having been Highly Recommended in this category in 2005.

The award, organised by responsibletravel.com in association with The Times, World Travel Magazine, Geographical Magazine and Virgin Holidays, further cemented Azafady's reputation as a leader in the field.

The organisers commended Azafady for "demonstrating real achievements, meeting the locally defined needs of communities in Madagascar and for producing detailed reports on impacts and being transparent about where the volunteers' money goes."

Sample Itinerary
Azafady project work - photo

Sample Itinerary

Volunteer work varies greatly throughout the year but all itineraries have the essential aim of assisting with development and conservation work in south-east Madagascar.

Follow the link above for an example of the sort of itinerary you could expect from your time in Madagascar.

Costs
Azafady project work - photo

Costs

To have the opportunity to participate in the Pioneer programme, we ask volunteers to raise a minimum donation of £2,000 for the ten weeks. But don't let the size of the required donation put you off! Azafady is there to support volunteers in raising this donation, with a wealth of fundraising experience and resources available to volunteers.

For more information, follow the link above.

Apply Now
Azafady project work - photo

Apply Now

Any person aged 18 or over may apply to become a Pioneer as all required skills are taught. Although being in good physical shape is important, the ability to exhibit tolerance, patience and a good sense of humour when things get tough is just as essential.

Click above for more information and application forms.

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