Public Health Project in Nepal: Volunteers Expand Healthcare Initiatives in Rural Communities

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Public Health Project Nepal
Published on: 06 Feb 2025

Public Health Project in Nepal: Volunteers Expand Healthcare Initiatives in Rural Communities

TARAKESHWAR, NEPAL – January 31, 2025

Empowering Local Communities Through Public Health Awareness

A dedicated team of YWC ESC HumAid public health volunteers has successfully conducted a series of health education and awareness programs in JitpurPhedi, a rural community in Kathmandu. Led by Harry, Alicia and Kanchan Pokhrel, the Public Health Project Nepal has made a significant impact by organizing workshops focused on menopause and diabetes awareness, implementing health education programs in schools, and promoting local healthcare collaborations. These initiatives have directly benefited over 200 community members and students, highlighting the importance of health systems in Nepal.

Public Health Volunteer Initiatives in Nepal

Menopause Awareness Workshops: Addressing a Critical Gap in Women’s Health

In line with their commitment to public health research, the volunteers conducted menopause education workshops in Khadawalkot Basic School and Nagarjuna Thulagaun Secondary Schools. The sessions offered vital information on symptoms, hormonal changes, health risks, and coping strategies. Many women, particularly in these rural areas, had limited knowledge about menopause, which made the initiative incredibly impactful.

Diabetes Awareness and Blood Sugar Testing: A Step Towards Preventive Healthcare

Diabetes is a growing concern in Nepal, and the healthcare volunteering team has taken proactive measures to tackle it by organizing diabetes awareness sessions in eight different communities: Aryal Gau, Nayagau, Dadagau, Balami Gau, Lamichhane Gau, Panchmane, Bhubaneshwori, and Nayabasti. These workshops addressed the types of diabetes, symptoms, health risks, and lifestyle changes.

Additionally, volunteers conducted on-the-spot blood sugar testing for all participants, gathering critical public health data for municipal health monitoring. These screenings benefited 126 individuals and helped identify potential health risks early.

Strengthening Health Systems in Nepal Through School Programs

Public Health Project NepalSchool Workshop Planning: A Holistic Approach to Health Education

Understanding the need for structured public health education, volunteers developed a comprehensive school health curriculum for implementation in February and March. The curriculum focuses on:

  • Environmental Health
  • Nutrition and dietary awareness
  • Mental health and stress management
  • Menstrual health education
  • Substance abuse prevention (smoking, drug, and alcohol awareness)
  • Physical activity promotion

This initiative targets students in grades 6, 7, and 9, while grades 8 and 10 were excluded due to their Board Examinations.

Workshops Conducted in Saraswoti and Jitpur Schools

Volunteers also carried out oral health and physical activity workshops in Saraswoti School, benefiting 14 students. Meanwhile, Jitpur School students participated in physical activity (52 students) and nutrition education (28 students). These interactive sessions aimed to instill healthy habits from an early age.

Local Healthcare Collaborations: Strengthening Public Health Systems in Nepal

To expand their impact, volunteers engaged with local health posts to discuss joint health awareness initiatives. These partnerships will enhance public health service delivery in the coming months.

Challenges and Strategic Solutions in Public Health Initiatives

Public Health Project NepalDespite its successes, the Public Health Project Nepal faced several challenges:

1. Difficulty in Engaging Community Members

Many women’s groups were difficult to contact due to their schedules. Solution: Volunteers coordinated sessions to align with pre-existing community gatherings, ensuring higher participation rates.

2. Inaccurate Blood Sugar Testing Due to Non-Fasting Participants

Accurate diabetes screening requires fasting, but many participants arrived having recently eaten. Solution: The team proceeded with testing while noting dietary status to account for any inconsistencies in the data.

3. Limited School Availability Due to Exams and Holidays

With schools occupied by examinations, student engagement was limited. Solution: Volunteers focused on workshop planning for the upcoming months rather than forcing sessions during a busy period.

Key Lessons from Public Health Research in Nepal

1. Strong Community Interest in Healthcare Volunteering Initiatives

Community members displayed enthusiasm and willingness to participate in health education programs, highlighting the need for ongoing public health interventions.

2. High Prevalence of Blood Sugar Irregularities

Initial findings suggest that many individuals in rural Nepal have high or low blood sugar levels, emphasizing the need for continuous screening and preventive healthcare measures.

Future Plans: Expanding Healthcare Volunteer Opportunities in Nepal

1. Launching the School Health Education Program

In February and March, structured health workshops will be conducted across multiple schools, covering crucial global health and personal well-being topics.

2. Publishing a Public Health Research Report

Findings from the diabetes screening and awareness campaigns will be compiled into a report, providing valuable insights for local health authorities and policymakers.

3. Expanding Community Health Workshops

Future sessions will cover environmental health, hypertension awareness, and physical activity promotion, with a potential early launch of a mental health awareness campaign.

Recommendations for Sustainable Public Health Initiatives in Nepal

Regular Blood Sugar Testing: A Long-term Health Strategy

Continued blood sugar screenings can help community members track their health progress while assisting local municipalities in assessing healthcare improvements over time.

Strengthening Health Volunteer Engagement

More healthcare volunteer opportunities should be created to increase outreach and awareness and ensure long-term community engagement in public health initiatives.

Enhancing Healthcare Systems Through Local Partnerships

Collaboration with health posts, schools, and local organizations will strengthen Nepal’s public health system.

How Do I Become a Healthcare Volunteer?

If you are passionate about global health and want to contribute to health care systems in Nepal, consider joining a public health volunteer program. Opportunities are available for individuals interested in health education, preventive care, and community-based healthcare initiatives.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Public Health and Community Well-being

The Public Health Project Nepal continues to demonstrate the power of health volunteers to drive meaningful change. By addressing key health concerns, providing education, and strengthening local healthcare systems, these initiatives are critical to improving the quality of life in Nepal’s rural communities.

With continued community support, research, and volunteer involvement, Nepal is taking significant steps toward a healthier, more informed society.

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Your Experience/Setting

On arrival you will be greeted at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and transported to your hotel / hostel (alternative arrangements can be made for those already in Nepal prior to the start of their placement). You will then receive a comprehensive a two to three-day induction, during that time you will be provided with information about your particular project as well as general information, including basic Nepalese language and culture, health and safety. This is also a good time to mix with other volunteers or interns who may be great sight-seeing companions and a source of support during your volunteer placement.

During the induction you will be accommodated in a budget hotel or hostel at VIN. However, a large part of the VIN experience comes from the immersion of a

home stay with a Nepalese host family. While this is an essential part of the experience we also recognize that it can be a challenging one, becoming part of a new culture and becoming accustomed to facilities that will be more basic than those you are used to. However, all our host families are experienced in accommodating volunteers – although their ability to speak English will vary – and you will have 24 hours’ access to contact and support from our staff members during your placement.

Volunteers will be placed in one of VIN’s working areas namely Tarakeshor Municipality of Kathmandu, Taluwa, Thulachhap and Bhadaure of Okhaldhunga, and Okharpouwa, Kaule of Nuwakot district. While at the working site the volunteers are requested to bring their own lunch, water bottle, safety gears, face mask and other essential belongings. As a volunteer you are advised to be in a comfortable and modest attire with preferably long sleeves. If you wish to raise project funds or collect project specific resources, you may contact us.

Requirements

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

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.

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.

Time and Fees

Mid and Long Term Volunteers:
  • 2 weeks minimum stay- € 385
  • 3 weeks – 470€
  • 4 weeks – 555€ (after 4 weeks for each additional week we charge €75)
University Internships:
  • 4 weeks minimum stay- € 615 (for each additional week we charge €85)

What VIN offers you in return?

  • On Arrival orientation (two to three days)
  • Food and Accommodation during on arrival orientation at VIN’s hostel / budget hotel on sharing basis
  • Food and Accommodation during Placement: Nepali Standard local host family – 3 meals a day
  • Transportation: Airport pick up; one time transport to and from the project site
  • Local volunteers’ support cost (optional)
  • VIN T-shirt
  • Certificate of participation
  • 24 hours emergency support
  • VIN admin cost.

What is excluded? Airfare, VISA (http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa), vaccinations, travel & medical insurance, return airport transfer, personal travel and weekend activities expenses etc.

Desirable/ Common Skills 

  • Excellent communicator with good interpersonal skills
  • A team player with good work ethics
  • 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