Travel to the tropical coast of southern Sri Lanka to empower local women by breaking down educational barriers! As a volunteer, you will support women from rural areas in learning English and developing essential life skills. This initiative aims to build their confidence, improve job opportunities, and enhance their ability to engage with their families and communities. Volunteers will experience the local culture while contributing to an impactful cause.
Program Highlights:
Your schedule at a glance (Minimum two-week commitment):
Arrival Day, Saturday: Airport pickup according to scheduled flight and shared transfer to volunteer villa. Meet and greet with fellow volunteers.
Day 1, Sunday: Volunteers will receive an orientation and tour of the area. Enjoy the rest of the day by discovering local beaches with fellow volunteers.
Days 2-6, Monday-Friday: Teach English and life skills to women for 2-3 hours daily, with lesson planning as part of the schedule. Volunteers also take part in skill development activities.
Day 7, Saturday: Departure day for volunteers staying just one week. Free time for volunteers who are extending to explore or take part in organized tours (See “Travel Highlights” below for recommendations!)
Remaining Weeks: The following weeks will follow the schedule of volunteering Monday-Friday and having weekends free. Departures are on Saturdays.
What’s Included
What’s not Included
The project is based in Galle, a picturesque city on Sri Lanka‘s southern coast, known for its lush landscapes and rich history. Volunteers stay near Unawatuna, a charming beachside town renowned for its tranquil sands and turquoise waters. Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant markets. Its proximity to stunning beaches makes it a haven for surfers, snorkelers, and relaxation seekers. The area blends traditional Sri Lankan charm with modern conveniences, including boutique cafes and shops. Nearby, volunteers can explore turtle conservation sites, rainforests, and cultural landmarks. Galle provides the perfect backdrop for a rewarding and memorable experience.
About the Program
This initiative addresses the educational needs of rural Sri Lankan women by providing them with essential English language and life skills. Participants mostly come from middle-class and lower-class Muslim communities and face significant barriers to employment and education. Through this program, volunteers play a pivotal role in breaking down these barriers, empowering women to achieve personal growth and professional success.
About the Volunteer Work
Volunteers teach basic English and facilitate life skills workshops in small, supportive group settings. Classes focus on spoken English, grammar, and practical vocabulary, delivered through interactive methods such as role-plays and games. Volunteers also contribute to skill-building activities like computer literacy and public speaking.
Some of your tasks may include:
Schedule: Volunteers will teach basic English to women in small to mid-sized groups. Sessions are typically held in the afternoons, although they may occasionally take place in the mornings based on circumstances. Each class lasts about 2-3 hours and is conducted in a close-knit, supportive environment with groups ranging from 5 to 20 rural women. Classes are scheduled four days a week, with one additional day dedicated to lesson planning. On this day, volunteers prepare session plans and materials. Flexibility is essential to adapt to changing local needs. An education coordinator will accompany volunteers to the project site, providing guidance during lesson delivery and planning.
Local Achievements: We are excited to announce the opening of our new Community Centre, made possible through the incredible support of our international volunteers. Located in the heart of Galle town, this facility serves as a free school and support center for the greater Galle community, which hosts our educational volunteer programs. This milestone represents a significant step forward in uplifting the Galle community and stands as a testament to the dedication of our volunteers from around the world.
HOLIDAYS: Available for 12 months of the year (Jan, Feb, March, April, May, June, July, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov and Dec); partial availability for 3 months of the year (Jan, April & Dec). The program closes over the Christmas and New Year’s time frame period. Anyone enrolled in any of our educational projects in December, when they may be closed, will switch to the turtle conservation for no extra fee.
Volunteers can enjoy weekly evening yoga session on the rooftop, weekly movie nights, monthly bike tours and monthly barbecues! Additional travel adventures are available for an additional fee, and a few recommendations are listed below:
Adventure Tour (Highly Recommended):
Extend your stay in Sri Lanka by participating in a seven-day Adventure Tour! This adventure tour includes a game drive, visits to waterfalls, a long train ride, an overnight stay at a riverside eco lodge, visit to temples, a village walk, visit to a spice grove, a visit to Lion Rock, time in the local market and a trip to Negombo Beach!
Surf & Yoga Week
Join our 1-week Surf & Yoga program near Kabalana Beach in Ahangama, one of Sri Lanka’s top surfing destinations. Running from October to June, this program offers 7 nights’ accommodation, daily breakfasts, 6 healthy dinners, professional surf coaching (including 5 lessons, 3 guided sessions, a theoretical class, and video analysis), 5 yoga sessions, and unlimited access to surf equipment and yoga throughout your stay. Participants also benefit from private round-trip transportation between the volunteer house and the camp, along with optional activities like karaoke, game nights, barbecues, and sunset gatherings. Experience the perfect combination of surf, yoga, and a vibrant beachside community.
Additional Recommendations:
© 2022 GOECO | All rights reserved
Develop & Design | Msite
