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Nepal’s Total Sanitation (WASH) Volunteer Project – Empower Communities

Home > Public Health and Medical Care Program > Nepal’s Total Sanitation (WASH) Volunteer Project – Empower Communities
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal

Nepal’s Total Sanitation Volunteer Project is a powerful initiative to create sustainable change in public health, environmental hygiene, and community well-being. We call WASH – Water Sanitation and Hygiene for the Total Sanitation project. The project addresses pressing sanitation challenges and contributes to global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6). This volunteer-driven movement seeks to transform lives in some of Nepal’s most marginalized regions by promoting hygiene, access to clean water, and sanitation education.

The Need for Total Sanitation in Nepal

Why is Sanitation a Critical Issue?

Nepal faces significant challenges in sanitation and hygiene:

  • Statistics reveal that nearly 13% of households lack access to toilets, and open defecation remains prevalent in rural areas.
  • Diseases like diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera are widespread, contributing to high child mortality rates.
  • Geographical constraints, poverty, and lack of infrastructure exacerbate these problems, particularly in remote regions.

Addressing these sanitation gaps involves more than providing facilities; it fosters behavioral change and ensures communities have the tools and knowledge to sustain healthy living standards.

Objectives of the Total Sanitation (WASH) Volunteer Project

What Does the Project Aim to Achieve?

The Total Sanitation Project has three main objectives:

  1. Eliminate Open Defecation: Mobilizing communities to build and use toilets.
  2. Promote Hygiene Practices: Educating families about handwashing, waste disposal, and clean water usage.
  3. Empower Local Communities: Creating a sense of ownership to maintain sanitation infrastructure long-term.

The project will improve health and foster dignity, environmental sustainability, and economic development by achieving these goals.

Volunteer Opportunities and Impact

What Makes This Project Unique?

As a volunteer, you will play a pivotal role in driving this change. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone passionate about making a difference, the project offers a range of impactful opportunities:

  • Behavioral Change Campaigns: Work with communities to raise awareness about the importance of sanitation.
  • School Hygiene Programs: Teach children hygiene practices, ensuring long-lasting habits.
  • Infrastructure Development: Assist in building eco-friendly toilets and clean water systems.
  • Data Collection and Monitoring: Help gather insights on sanitation practices to measure project success.
  • Cultural Integration: Immerse yourself in Nepali culture, learning about traditional and modern hygiene practices.

By participating, volunteers not only contribute to healthier communities but also gain invaluable skills and cross-cultural experiences.

Critical Components of the WASH Volunteer Project

How Does the Project Operate?

The Total Sanitation Project adopts a holistic approach, ensuring its initiatives are sustainable and community-driven:

  1. Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS): Mobilizing local groups to lead sanitation improvements.
  2. School-Based Hygiene Education: Equipping children with lifelong habits.
  3. Infrastructure Building: Constructing toilets, safe drinking water systems, and waste management facilities.

Behavioral Change Communication (BCC): Conducting workshops and public demonstrations to instill new hygiene practices.

Community and Volunteer Benefits

How Does This Project Make a Difference?

For the community, the project:

  • Reduces waterborne diseases and healthcare costs.
  • Improves school attendance, especially for girls, by providing sanitation facilities.
  • Enhances overall quality of life through better hygiene and privacy.

For volunteers, the benefits include:

  • Hands-on experience in public health initiatives.
  • The opportunity to make a tangible impact in underserved regions.

Personal growth through cultural immersion and skill development.

Volunteer Roles and Weekly Responsibilities

What Will You Be Doing?

As a volunteer, you’ll have diverse roles and responsibilities, including:

  • Educating communities on hygiene and sanitation.
  • Assisting in toilet construction projects using local, sustainable materials.
  • Organizing hygiene awareness workshops in schools.
  • Monitoring and evaluating the impact of sanitation initiatives.
  • Supporting waste management programs, such as composting.
  • Collaborating with local leaders to identify sanitation gaps.
  • Promoting menstrual hygiene awareness among women and girls.

Sample Weekly Schedule

  • Monday: Orientation and planning meetings.
  • Tuesday: Community visits and hygiene awareness campaigns.
  • Wednesday: Assisting in infrastructure development projects.
  • Thursday: School hygiene workshops and monitoring activities.
  • Friday: Data collection and feedback sessions.
  • Saturday: Cultural exchange and local sightseeing.

Sunday: Rest or self-directed activities.

Professional Development & Cultural Immersion

What Will You Gain from the Experience?

  1. Technical Skills: Hands-on experience in public health, sanitation infrastructure, and monitoring.
  2. Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead campaigns and workshops.
  3. Cultural Exposure: Learn about Nepali traditions, food, and languages.
  4. Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with local and international stakeholders in public health.

Eligibility and Application Process

Who Can Apply?

  • Requirements:
    • Open to students, professionals, and enthusiasts interested in public health.
    • Prior experience is optional; training will be provided.

How to Apply?

  • Complete the online application form.
  • Submit a resume and motivation statement.
  • Pay a non-refundable booking fee of 150 Euros upon placement confirmation.

Receive pre-departure resources and orientation materials.

Accommodation and Support

What Resources Are Available On-Site?

  1. Housing: Stay in homestays or dormitories with access to basic facilities.
  2. Meals: Three daily meals featuring traditional Nepali cuisine (e.g., daal-bhat).

Support System: 24/7 emergency assistance, regular check-ins, and local guides.

Financial Information

Program Costs and What’s Included

  • Program Fee: Covers accommodation, meals, and in-country support.
  • Additional Costs: Visa, travel, and health insurance are not included.

Why Choose Nepal’s Total Sanitation Project?

A Unique Opportunity to Make a Difference

  • Align your efforts with global initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Gain firsthand experience in addressing real-world public health challenges.

Enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Nepal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common Concerns About the Total Sanitation Project

Do I need prior experience?

Training or guidance is provided for only some volunteers.

Where is the project located?

Primarily in rural areas around Kathmandu and the Everest region.

What cultural experiences will I have?

Participate in local festivals, learn Nepali customs, and enjoy traditional cuisine.

How does the project impact women?

Promoting menstrual hygiene and providing sanitation facilities empowers women and girls.

What should I bring?

Comfortable clothing, reusable water bottles, and basic hygiene supplies.

What safety measures are in place?

24/7 emergency support, local guides, and secure accommodations.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, extensions can be arranged with prior notice.

Relevant Skills

Project Specific Skills for Public Health Research

  • Educational/working background in Public Health
  • Knowledge of research methodologies
  • Ability to work with data and records
  • Good understanding of public health trends
  • Experience in statistical analysis will be an added asset

Desirable/ Common Skills

  • Excellent communicator with good interpersonal skills
  • A team player with good workethics
  • Time management and leadership qualities
  • Adaptable, flexible and able to work under pressure
  • Accepting of different ideas and culture
  • Problem solving: always be part of solutions than part of a problem
  • Creative
  • Positive attitude

Requirements

Requirements

  • Gender: Female / Male
  • Minimum Age: 18+ years (16-17 years old person can volunteer but need to present parents’/ guardian’s consent letter)
  • Language:English (Intermediate)
  • Educational:High School Graduate

Your Experience/Setting

Your Experience/ Setting

Upon your arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), you will receive a warm welcome and be transported to your hotel or hostel. If you are already in Nepal before the start of your placement, we can make alternative arrangements for you. You will undergo a comprehensive two- to three-day induction program after arrival. This induction will provide valuable information about your project and general information about the Nepalese language, culture, health, safety, and security. It is also an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow volunteers and interns who can become your companions for sightseeing and a source of support throughout your volunteer placement.

During the induction period, you will be accommodated in a budget hotel or hostel arranged by VIN. However, most of the VIN experience involves living with a Nepalese host family. While this immersion is essential for a complete experience, we understand that it can be challenging as you adapt to a new culture and adjust to facilities that may be more basic than you are accustomed to. Don’t worry; all our host families have experience accommodating volunteers, although their English-speaking abilities may vary. Also, you will have 24-hour access to our staff members for support and assistance throughout your placement.

Volunteers will be assigned to one of VIN’s working areas, which include Tarakeshor Municipality in Kathmandu, Taluwa, Thulachhap, and Bhadaure in Okhaldhunga, and Okharpouwa and Kaule in the Nuwakot district. While at the working site, volunteers are requested to bring their lunch box, water bottle, safety gear, face mask, and any other essential belongings. We advise volunteers to dress comfortably and modestly, preferably with long sleeves. Please get in touch with us for guidance and support if you want to raise project funds or collect project-specific resources. This will help the community a lot.

Schedule and Commitment

Schedule and Commitment

You will work five to six days a week, up to six hours per day. You may propose your preferred time and hours; however, the working time period will be dependent on the institution you have been placed. A minimum of 2 weeks’ time commitment is expected of a volunteer. The longer you commit; the better impact you can make. You should be willing to commit a certain amount of your free time and energy, show a lot of commitment and be a good listener. You are expected to work constructively and co-operatively maintaining good reputation and standards at all times. Volunteer should abide by relevant security concerns and access procedures. Moreover, you should be receptive and positive to performance appraisal, advice and feedback. Throughout your placement, you will have the full support of VIN. Your safety is our highest priority.

Typical Day

Your typical day might look like this: 

07:00-08:00Tea/Leisure Time
08:00-09:00Breakfast/Brunch (Nepali meal – Daal-Bhaat)
09:00-10:00Preparation for sessions
10:00-13:00Deliver training sessions/Workshops to students
13:00-14:00Lunch (Packed lunch)
15:00-17:00Deliver sessions/Awareness to community people
17:00-20:00Preparation for next day/Leisure time
20:00-21:00Dinner (Nepali meal – Daal-Bhaat)

Mentoring and Support System

You will receive a clear and concise on-the-job instructions, course of action, context of work and policies/strategies before your placement begins. You will be provided with ample of guidance and support throughout the placement with trainings / onboarding sessions incase necessary. You will be in a constant communication and regular check-in with the VIN volunteer coordinator. VIN aims to maintain a culture of continuous feedback between the volunteer supervisor at the placement to monitor the performance of the volunteer and ensure the project delivers desired outcomes.

In case of an emergency, you may contact one of our Volunteer Coordinators who will be available anytime for your assistance and support.
Click here to Learn more on how volunteering works

Time and Fees

Mid and Long Term Volunteers:
2 weeks minimum stay- € 380
3 weeks – 480€
4 weeks – 580€ (after 4th week, for each additional week €95)

University Internships:
4 weeks minimum stay- € 680 (for each additional week – €105
Click here  to Learn what’s included and excluded in our Fees Section

Recruitment Process

Click here to Learn recruitment process on how volunteering works

Project Location

  • Outskirt of Kathmandu: 10 to 17 KM from the main city of Kathmandu, Kavresthali, Jitpurphedi, Dharmasthali, Sangla, Futung, Jhor Mahankal and surrounding. It takes about 30-45 minutes to reach these locations by local bus. Rich in natural beauty; close to the capital; historical importance yet people are poor and living a difficult life. People there are involved in traditional farming and small scale economic activities. It’s a great area to experience an authentic Nepali lifeRead More
  • 250 KM east of Kathmandu in Everest Region. We work in remote rural communities- Taluwa, Thulachhap and Bhadaure. These are very peaceful villages to live in covered by mountains, hills, fields, rivers, woods and wild lives. People are really friendly and not much explored region by the outside world. The people are very poor and low on human index. Any support provided are so much impactful. VIN has been working there from 2012.Read More
  • Okharpouwa is in Nuwakot District, between 15 to 35 Km from Kathmandu. It’s close to the Shivapuri national reserve with beautiful landscape. There are over 10,000 inhabitants with mixed ethnicity. The lowest in human index, Okharpouwa has a lot of issues to work on. The major living source is agriculture. VIN has started working there just after the earthquake.Read More
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Conclusion: Join the Movement for a Cleaner Nepal

The Total Sanitation (WASH) Volunteer Project in Nepal is more than an internship; it’s an opportunity to transform lives, including yours. You can help build healthier, empowered communities by contributing to improved sanitation and hygiene.

Apply Now and become part of this life-changing journey.

Start Date and Duration

​Our projects are open year-round, and our inductions begin on the first and third Mondays of each month. We would like to ask that volunteers arrive one day before the start of the induction. You can choose the duration of your participation based on your available time. However, so that you know, our volunteering placements are limited. We highly recommend booking your placement in advance to secure your placement. Click here to apply.

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Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal
Total Sanitation Volunteer Nepal

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GOOGLE REVIEWS

Volunteers Initiative Nepal (VIN)
4.8
Based on 158 reviews
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Cholindra Karki
16:12 16 Sep 24
Volunteers Initiative Nepal(VIN) is a non- religious, non-political, non-for-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO). It focuses on community based projects involving local volunteers backed-up by international volunteers in Nepal.It has been deploying its volunteers in teaching, teachers training,environment, health and sanitation, children development,women empowerment support, youth empowerment and disaster risk reduction. I am proud to be a staff of this known organization. Let the targeted community be empowered together…
Rosie W
09:01 08 Sep 24
Volunteering with VIN was an incredibly experience! I spent an amazing 2 weeks working in 4 schools teaching about disasters and preparedness while enhancing the childrens english. Everyone I met was so lovely and helpful enciting me into their culture. While in Okhaldhunga I got to see multiple festivals including Gai Jatra and Teej, which was unforgettable and really made my time in Nepal. I'm so glad VIN allowed me to see the beautiful sights and culture if Nepal and I wish to come back soon!
Sulav Singh Thakuri
07:25 14 Aug 24
Well, I was that lucky one who got an opportunity to work with VIN (Volunteer Initiative Nepal) as a local volunteer. It was the best part of my entire life till. During my time volunteering (about 3 months), I gained valuable skills like project management , community outreach. This experience also contributed my personal growth by enhancing my leadership abilities and improving my communication skills.Thank you VIN 🥰❣️I recommend all my other friends who are pursuing to do community work and who have commitments to do it, do visit VIN.
Lilou
11:45 05 Jul 24
it was an incredible experience, rich on a personal and professional level. VIN was able to support us throughout our mission. the volunteers met on site were very kind and welcoming. thank you Didi for these good dishes prepared. thank you to the communities for welcoming and accepting us. incredible adventure that I will never forget.
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