In recent years, Cambodia has made great strides in turning the tide of the HIV epidemic; however, young people and particularly orphans remain vulnerable and often do not receive sufficient attention from HIV/AIDS prevention organizations. Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, teachers and trainers are often shy to bring up issues related to HIV/AIDS in the classroom and community. This is one of the reasons why GSC HIV/AIDS Prevention volunteers are needed in Cambodia to help close this education gap, increase teachers’ and trainers’ comfort levels in engaging in open dialogue with students, and keep future generations safe from the disease. The HIV/AIDS prevention training has now been embedded in a broad public health education program to address a gamut of community health issues.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Receive an in-country introduction to HIV/AIDS prevention and public health training and materials, including role-play scripts, games, activities, and conversation practice outlines, to become a confident, effective trainer.

• Contribute to enrichment programs in other aspects of life for children and related family members in need, including English skills, drug and alcohol abuse awareness, hygiene, nutrition, HIV/AIDS prevention techniques, and  issues surrounding domestic violence.

• Explore Cambodian culture and sights with fellow volunteers on tours that include the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, the National Museum, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the Killing Fields at Cheoung Ek, and many more places. 
  

• There is no language requirement, and previous teaching experience is not required - just a positive attitude, ability to take initiative, and a willingness to approach challenges with patience and enthusiasm.

• Participants staying at least four weeks have the option to spend two weeks or more assisting staff at a rural residential children’s center that cares for HIV positive children, which may compliment other program activities such as leading public health workshops in Phnom Penh.
  

Dates & Rates: The Cambodia HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention Program is offered year-round, from two weeks to six months or longer. For more information, visit our Dates & Rates page.