Through our Healthcare Internship & Clinical Placement Program, volunteers and interns gain practical experience by supporting healthcare services in Northern Tanzania. The program is organized by Gilys Children Foundation in collaboration with local hospitals, clinics, and community health initiatives in and around Arusha.
We work closely with each participant to identify the most suitable placement based on their interests, educational background, qualifications, and level of experience. Placements may include hospitals, health centers, clinics, or community outreach programs.
Participants can choose to:
- Work in local hospitals and clinics
- Support maternal and child healthcare services
- Join community medical outreach activities in rural areas
- Participate in health awareness and prevention campaigns
Depending on the duration of stay, participants may combine more than one placement experience.
Placement Opportunities
Hospital & Clinic Placement
Volunteers and interns may be placed in partner hospitals and clinics where they can observe and support healthcare professionals in different departments such as:
- Pediatrics
- General medicine
- Maternity and obstetrics
- Community healthcare
- HIV/AIDS awareness and counseling
- Laboratory and diagnostic services
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
This placement is ideal for:
- Medical students
- Nursing students
- Public health students
- Pre-medical students
- Qualified healthcare professionals
Participants mainly assist local staff, observe clinical procedures, support patient care activities, and learn about the healthcare system in Tanzania.
Community Medical Outreach
Gilys Children Foundation also organizes community outreach activities in underserved villages and communities. Volunteers may travel with outreach coordinators to provide:
- Health education sessions
- Basic health screenings
- Hygiene and sanitation awareness
- Maternal and child health support
- Vaccination awareness campaigns
The outreach programs mainly support women, children, and vulnerable families with limited access to healthcare services.
Requirements
Previous medical experience is an advantage but not mandatory for all placements. Motivated participants who wish to begin or pursue a career in healthcare are also welcome.
Suitable participants include:
- Medical students
- Nursing students
- Midwifery students
- EMT trainees
- Public health students
- Qualified doctors and nurses
Participants are expected to bring their own working clothes such as scrubs, closed shoes, and other personal protective items if available.
Certificates and internship confirmation letters can be provided upon successful completion of the program.
Donations & Support
Healthcare facilities in Tanzania often face shortages of medical supplies and equipment. Participants who wish to support through donations are encouraged to purchase items locally whenever possible to reduce import challenges.
Program contributions also help support:
- Hospital operational costs
- Community outreach activities
- Local supervisors and healthcare workers
- Healthcare services for vulnerable patients
Additional Information
Preparation & Orientation
After confirmation, participants receive detailed preparation information including:
- Pre-arrival guidance
- Packing recommendations
- Cultural orientation
- Safety information
- Communication support before arrival
Our team remains available through Email and WhatsApp for all questions and support.
On-Ground Support
The Gilys Children Foundation team is based in Tanzania and provides continuous support throughout the placement period. Emergency assistance is available whenever needed.
Vaccinations & Medical Care
Participants are encouraged to consult a travel doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention before traveling to Tanzania.
Arusha has several reliable medical facilities and pharmacies available for international visitors.
Flights & Insurance
Participants are responsible for arranging:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal medical insurance
Our team can provide guidance and recommendations when needed.
Visa Information
Participants are required to obtain the appropriate Tanzanian visa before or upon arrival depending on their nationality and length of stay.
About Gilys Children Foundation
Gilys Children Foundation is a Tanzanian non-profit organization committed to supporting vulnerable children, youth, and communities through education, healthcare, childcare, volunteering, and community development initiatives.
Through our international volunteer and internship programs, we aim to promote cultural exchange, global learning, and meaningful community impact. We believe that international cooperation and shared experiences create positive change for both volunteers and local communities.
Our programs are designed to ensure ethical volunteering where participants support local professionals without replacing local employment opportunities. Volunteers work alongside local teams, contribute their skills, and gain valuable professional and intercultural experience.
We welcome volunteers and interns from all over the world to join us in creating positive change in Tanzania.
