Students at Algoma University will have the chance to spend a month in Fiji next year.
The school has partnered with Think Pacific to set students up with opportunities to work alongside rural Fijian youth groups and communities on initiatives related to mental health, sports development, youth empowerment and community building next May and June.
While there, they’ll live with a traditional Fijian family in a rural village.
“They will be immersed in the unique culture, customs and ways of life in the South Pacific Islands,” the university described in a news release. “These one-month experiences will develop employability skills through practical international work experience, enhance students’ global perspectives, and contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.”
Algoma U’s director of international affairs says this will be an exciting opportunity that has the potential to be life-changing for participants.
“Think Pacific has a stellar reputation as a leading social enterprise working closely with communities in Fiji to support sustainable development,” Dawn White said.
“Algoma students will experience true cultural immersion, living with a Fijian family and building lifelong relationships while they put their learning into practice in an international context.”
Think Pacific’s director Nigel Scott says they can’t wait for the first group of students to arrive.
“We very much look forward to the students experiencing the beauty of life in a rural Fijian village whilst contributing to grassroots initiatives that support the achievement of the Fiji National Development Plan, on behalf of the Fijian Ministry of Youth & Sports and Fijian Ministry of Health.” Scott said.
Students can apply for scholarships through the Global Skills Opportunity program.
Algoma University will be hosting a few online information sessions about the Fiji placement, including one this Wednesday.
More information can be found on the Think Pacific/Algoma U home page.
