American Sign Language Internships in Senegal

  Senegal

• Other Cities in Senegal: 
Dakar,  Thies

Term: Fall, Throughout the year, Winter 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Year-Round

Description: Sign Language Teachers are need immediately for two schools in Senegal.

This program is open to deaf students and teachers, the hearing impaired, and any individual able to communicate in American Sign Language.

All hearing impaired students that are fortunate enough to attend school in Senegal, learn American Sign Language.

Rev. Andrew Foster, a graduate of Gallaudent University in Washington, DC, opened this window of communication for several countries in West Africa in the 70s and 80s. He established 31 schools in all. In Senegal, Senecorps has partnered with two schools that are a part of his legacy. Since Rev. Foster's untimely death in 1987, the Deaf community in Senegal has been disconnected from their fellow and largely ignored by their statesmen. They have difficulty communicating with the French or people from other European nations who are Deaf because their signing is different. For over a decade, they have desperately sought partners to advance their understanding of signing techniques and facilitate a continued dialogue.

Each school has about 120-150 students with only about three to 6 teachers at each location. Typical classes have 30-40 students. There is a drastic drop in the higher grades as most students drop out either because they are unable to afford school fees or discouraged the lack of opportunities that currently exist for them if their families do continue to struggle to invest in their education.

Highlights: Although all teachers are unpaid volunteers, this is an invaluable opportunity to live and work in a peaceful, French speaking country on the coast of West Africa. Your work will enable this community to realize many of their short-term and long-term academic and economic goals. You will help them perfect the communication tools that Rev. Foster brought to them so many years ago and allow them to access higher of education. Senecorps is committed to having at least 20 Deaf Student achieve their Baccalaureate and enroll in University courses in the next 10 years. Currently, there aren't any Deaf Students enrolled at either University in Senegal.

You can help us make history!

Qualifications: Although knowledge of French is not required, it is highly desirable. Persons without a French background will be able to teach Elementary classes and assist local staff with higher level classes. Some classroom or tutoring experience is recommended, but not required. Must be in good medical condition.

Cost in US$: USD 650 (1-3 mo.); USD 1100 (3-6 mo.) USD 2000 (6-12 mo.)

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American Participants.

Participants Travel to Senegal Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Senecorps's Mission Statement: Senecorps is devoted to building bridges across continents through youth and adult education by providing opportunities for teachers, students, and families to exchange ideas and skills through service learning and a variety of cultural and intellectual interactions.

Year Founded: 2003