In September 2007, the Ministry of German Cooperation "BMZ" has launched a new program called "Young Volunteer Service ». This program aims at introducing young volunteers living in Gemany to development work. They are supposed to work for twelve months in a civil society organisation in developing countries.


The main objectives of the program are:

• Reinforce the commitment of young people in development politics
• Support cultural exchange between young Germans and the local population of the host country
• Support youth promotion
• Support civil society and partner organisations
• Train young people in intercultural cooperation through concrete actions

The age of the volunteers is fixed between 18 and 28 years. The target group consists of young people wishing to gain first experiences in intercultural cooperation. They mainly have no professional expertise.

To strengthen intercultural understanding, the young volunteers can get knowledge of Rwandan work, politics and culture. A special preparation is given to them before their departure, and mentoring during their year abroad is assured by DED Rwanda.

Finances

DED takes charge of the administration and the direct costs concerning the volunteers. The local partner organisations are exempt of all costs, but it would be preferable if the partner organisations could help finding accommodation.

The volunteers are working directly in the partner structures. The choice and definition of duties have to be fixed in co-operation with DED Rwanda. The partner organisations could benefit of other support such as a salary for one local specialist. They are supposed to define one tutor for the volunteers.

To become one of our partner organisations, you should:

• be a member organisation of civil society, recognized by Rwandan authorities and active for the good of civil society
• have the personnel and infrastructural capacities to receive one or more volunteers for twelve month and be able to provide a tutor
• be interested in intercultural exchange and a long term agreement cooperartion

If you match our criteria and would like to become one of our partners, contact us!