Sport is an important part of education as it aids student’s overall development, both mentally and physically. It provides a fun and exciting way for students to gain several skills, positive experiences and develop self-confidence, crucial for their personal development. Sport helps children come together and learn important values through gaining a proper sense of sportsmanship, as well as teaching self-discipline which will enable children to cope with criticism and setbacks.
In Nepal sport is not recognized as a central part of learning and development within the school curriculum. Teachers and parents would rather children study and gain good grades than playing games. Whilst some schools have incorporated sport into their curriculum, it is often not enough, with students barely getting one or two 45-minute periods per week for sport or physical training. As a result, many students lack confidence, the ability to work with others and problem solving and leadership skills.
The major goal of Sports Volunteer Project is to make a positive difference in marginalized communities through sports. The benefit of sport is not only to physical well-being but also in developing personal character and inclusive and safe communities.
Recognizing the value of participating in sport and physical activities, VIN wishes to create these opportunities to help develop children living in marginalized communities. Such involvement will have a benefit on their physical and mental health, as well as their character and personal skills.
VIN are looking for volunteers with interest and experience in a range of sporting activities. Football and cricket are well established in Nepal, but volleyball and basketball are becoming increasingly popular, although volunteers and interns will be able to teach the sports of their choice. You will mainly work with children aged 6 to 16 and, what they lack in knowledge, they will certainly make up for in enthusiasm! There are times when the Nepali schools are closed, for exams, festivals or something unforeseen and, during these occasions, volunteers and interns can teach in the community, helping those who are financially unable to attend school.
During your volunteer placement you will live in the community with a Nepali host family, offering you the chance to become immersed in Nepali culture and language. Depending upon you interest and expertise, you will be involved in one or more of the following activities:
- Plan and supervise games, practices, and activities;
- Teach children the fundamentals of team sports;
- Conduct physical training (PT) sessions with children;
- Encourage the involvement of the parents in sport by organizing and conducting events;
- Provide a safe and fun environment for children to participate in sport;
- Teach new sport activities to children along with games to promote mental speed and ability;
- If appropriate, assist children with other activities, such as teaching English language;
- If appropriate, help students with homework and tutor them if required.
- Demonstrate basic sanitation habits such as teeth brushing and hands washing.
Project Specific Skills
- Excellent inter-personal communication skills
- Able to give clear instruction and direction
- Lateral and creative thinking
- Proficient in conducting classes
- Background or interest in Sport
- Previous experience working with children would 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
- 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
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
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.
Your typical day might look like this:
07:00-08:00 | Tea/Leisure Time |
08:00-09:00 | Breakfast/Brunch (Nepali meal – Daal-Bhaat) |
09:00-10:00 | Preparation for sessions |
10:00-13:00 | Conduct classes |
13:00-14:00 | Lunch (Packed lunch) |
15:00-17:00 | Conduct classes |
17:00-20:00 | Preparation for next day/Leisure time |
20:00-21:00 | Dinner (Nepali meal – Daal-Bhaat) |
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
Mid and Long Term Volunteers:
2 weeks minimum stay- € 350
3 weeks – 450€
4 weeks – 550€ (after 4th week, for each additional week €85)
University Internships:
4 weeks minimum stay- € 650 (for each additional week – €95
Click here to Learn what’s included and excluded in our Fees Section
Click here to Learn recruitment process on how volunteering works
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.