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Permaculture Internship in Malawi
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Contribute to developing and managing workshops for permaculture clubs in schools, promoting a culture of sustainable development
This Permaculture Internship in Malawi offers the opportunity to gain experience in the application of a decentralized after-school program. Your tasks will differ depending on the time of year, as the program is syllabus-based around the school year and planting season. As an intern, you’ll be part of a small team providing permaculture training to teachers in a rural setting; either through the annual teacher training, termly teachers meetings, or end of school year Open Days at the individual schools. You will also have a hand in the further development and sustainability of the program by working with key demonstration schools and skill sharing through strategic partnerships.
Take advantage of this great opportunity to put theoretical knowledge into practice, gain an understanding of a grassroots permaculture project, and contribute to a worthwhile cause helping local communities build resilience to climate change. Your role will the tailored to your skills and knowledge, so that you can boost your professional development and have a valuable learning experience.
ORGANIZATION
Malawi Schools Permaculture Clubs (MSPC) is a nonprofit that promotes permaculture principles to children in Malawi. Based in Nkhata Bay, in the north of the country, the organization supports primary school teachers in the area who want to run after-school permaculture clubs. MSPC provides all the relevant training and tools for the teachers, as well as a structured club program for them to follow. This includes a resource pack of weekly lessons and activities, basic equipment needed to run clubs, and infrastructure to support and motivate teachers throughout the year.
The aim of the program is to teach children how to care for and regenerate their natural environment, to value their local resources, and to learn how to produce their own nutritious food. MSPC works with approximately 800 children at 22 different school clubs, and is in the process of forming strategic partnerships in other areas of Malawi.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
As a Permaculture intern with this organization, you’ll be expected to partake in a mix of office and field work. Beyond permaculture tasks, you’ll also assist in office work that combines elements from the other internships available with MSPC. Depending on your interests/skills, you’ll be asked to work on projects related to Communications, Fundraising, or NGO Management. Planting season is generally from October to December, so be sure to share your specific task interests during the application process to ensure you are joining the internship at the optimal time of year to reach your learning goals.
Note: as many of the partner schools are remote, transportation costs can be high. If you have a driver’s license and are comfortable learning to ride an electric motorbike, you will be able to use this option. Otherwise, in order to successfully complete the below tasks, it is recommended to fundraise before arrival to cover your costs for transport as the organization does not have spare funds.
Responsibilities
Depending on your skills, interests, and the time of year – you’ll have the opportunity to get involved in the following;
- Further developing the permaculture training provided to teachers
- Assisting with the training courses on the ground from May to July and during termly teachers meetings that involve a training element
- Working with key schools in the program to develop central aspects of their design and helping to spread good practices throughout the after-school club network
- Helping at the schools; assisting in the delivery of weekly sessions during the school year and from May to July during their yearly Open Days and visits to other permaculture sites
- Working in the gardens on-site Butterfly Space to plant new crops and seeds and improve landscaping
- Researching permaculture topics and organizations
- Assisting in developing key program improvements based on the overall strategy of the organization
- Involvement in Marketing, Communications, Fundraising, or NGO Managements tasks
Requirements
- A basic knowledge of permaculture principles or background experience in agroecology, regenerative agriculture, gardening, or other relevant fields
- Willingness to work on a variety of tasks, both in the office and in the field
- A flexible attitude and ability to work in a dynamic environment
- Fluent English communication skills
- A passion for spreading the importance of permaculture principles
- Self-driven with the ability to work independently
- If opting to use the e-bike: a valid driver’s license
- If opting to cover transport costs: fundraising or additional personal funds
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay at a popular backpackers in the northern town of Nkhata Bay. Located on Lake Malawi, with views of palm trees and green-blue water, this lodge has an idyllic location and a relaxed vibe. You’ll enjoy a private beach, beautiful gardens, a lakeside bar, and communal spaces. The rooms are comfortable 6 bed dormitories, although there are options of upgrading to single chalets (at an extra fee). The lodge is a hub for people who are volunteering their time at different communities and environmental projects in the area, so you can expect to share this space with like-minded people.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Malawi is considered to be safe for tourists, however, being a developing country with poverty, there is petty crime. Keep your belongings securely stored and close to you, don’t walk alone in the dark, and report any suspicious behavior that you may see to the accommodation/host organization.
Communication
Communication
You’ll be able to use your phone in Malawi with roaming data turned on or a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked. Visit Airtel or TNM stands for a SIM and purchase 1000MK ‘Airtime’ (for calls), and a data bundle. Wi-Fi is not an amenity offered in Malawi, so you will need to buy data bundles from a provider for work and personal use.
Meals
Meals
A meal package is included for the first month that suffices for two meals per day (breakfast and lunch/dinner). For the next months you can either book a meal package or eat locally. There is also a small kitchen available for basic cooking. Meals are prepared through Mkana Cafe, the restaurant on-site. The menu includes many international dishes and is also vegetarian-friendly. Make sure to notify us in advance of any allergies/dietary needs.
Location details
Location details
Nkhata Bay is a lively ferry port on the shores of Lake Malawi with a bustling market which is one of the biggest cultural influences on the area. It offers many activities, such as snorkeling, boat/kayak trips, energetic football matches, and beach ventures. Explore Malawi via coach buses and boats, especially the iconic Ilala Ferry, which has been active since 1951.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Start and end dates of this internship are flexible and will be discussed during the application process.
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
8 weeks USD 2,149
12 weeks USD 2,500
16 weeks USD 2,851
20 weeks USD 3,202
26 weeks USD 3,729
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a dorm room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Breakfast and dinner daily for the first month
- Laundry service
- Housekeeping service
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Lilongwe
- Transport from Lilongwe to Nkhata Bay (approximately 400 km) – we can help you arrange this in advance
- Transport to project sites — it is recommended to fundraise to help cover your transport costs as they can be quite high if your internship goals include field work and site visits
- Data package for internet connection (for work and personal use)
- Meals after your first month – for the remaining duration, you can prepare your own meals or opt to extend the meal package.
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Lunch, drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing).
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Malawi.
What can I expect from an internship in Malawi?
You can expect to foster a unique connection with the local community, as well as having many opportunities to explore various projects during your internship. If you wish to know more about what to expect, make sure to read our blog from a previous intern who traveled to Malawi!
How long can I do an internship in Malawi?
The minimum length of our internships in Malawi is two months, but the ideal length is closer to four months, if possible. This ensures you have an adequate amount of time to make a tangible impact. Luckily, the length of our programs is customizable so you can apply for a summer, remote, hybrid, or gap-year internship!
Can I get university credit for an internship in Malawi?
Yes, but you must ensure with your supervisor that your university approves this. You can also purchase transfer credits to add onto your internship experience.
How can I prepare for an internship in Malawi?
Personally, you can prepare by learning about the history and culture of Malawi and reflecting on your internship goals, and we’ll be here to help you with the rest! Ask us any questions you may have about placement logistics, matchmaking, check-ins, advice on visa/insurance, or anything else you may think of. If you wish to know more about preparing for your internship, you can check out our ultimate guide to NGO internships in Africa!
Will I receive a stipend during my Roots internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning for a nonprofit organization. Your internship will be unpaid so we’ve put together a few tips on how to fund your internship. There will be opportunities for professional and personal growth and you’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge that is invaluable!
REVIEWS
Despite interning from home, I learned many new things and was especially pleased about the practical application of many aspects I had been taught in academic courses. I gained valuable insights into many different aspects of work, including data collection, monitoring, cooperation with other projects, communications, fundraising, etc. I learned a lot about the realities of running an NGO and could often use the skills and abilities I gained at university to fulfill my tasks. While I would have preferred to travel to Malawi, I did manage to gain in-depth insight into the way an NGO works and what the particular challenges in this particular setting are.
Christian, German – University of Duisburg-Essen
NGO Management Internship, Remote
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Nkhata Bay, Malawi
PROGRAM FOCUS: Environmental NGO
TASK FOCUS: Permaculture, Organic Farming
LENGTH: Min 8 weeks
COST: From USD 2,149
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain practical experience in permaculture and curriculum/workshop development
- Contribute to this nonprofit’s mission of teach children the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability
- Get your hands dirty by working in the gardens and joining school projects
- Expand your knowledge of gardening and permaculture practices
- Live and work on the banks of Lake Malawi
- Explore Malawian culture and be welcomed to the warm heart of Africa
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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