In addition to studying and sitting their final exams, a group of 30 Bondies have been busily preparing for their trip to Africa tomorrow to volunteer their services to developing communities.
The Bond in Africa (BAfrica) expedition, now in its second year, provides students with an incredible humanitarian experience and the opportunity to work in degree-relevant roles within African communities and organisations.
This year, 20 students from a cross-section of faculties will return to the Mulanje Mission in Malawi, which was the destination of last year’s inaugural BAfrica trip, to offer their support in a broad range of areas including IT, marketing, sports and health science.
The type of hands-on activities the Bondies will be involved in include fixing computers, running IT classes and fundraising campaigns for the local school, performing maintenance on the church, hospital and school, assisting with the development and marketing of a nutrient-rich porridge which is manufactured by the Mission, and running a children’s sports program.
In addition to this activity in Malawi, a further 10 Bond students will this year travel to Capetown in South Africa to work within legal aid and social justice groups for NGOs and other local community groups.
Bond in Africa Convenor Lee Jarman said the benefits students gained from the expedition were rich and varied.
“The experience for all students is eye-opening and for many can be life-changing,” Lee said.
“Not only is the trip a great opportunity for personal growth, but it also provides our participants with international, degree-relevant experience, which is a valuable addition to their resumes.”
You can find out more information about Bond in Africa and stay up-to-date on the student’s expedition by reading their daily blogs.