Volunteer in Sudan, teaching English with the Sudan Volunteer Programme
Important update: At the time of writing, Sudan Volunteer Programme (SVP) notes on its official website that it is currently not operating but hopes to restart soon. Please always check their website for the latest information before making plans.
Gain experience teaching English in Sudan’s public universities
Sudan Volunteer Programme is a UK charity that has been sending graduates and near-graduates to teach English in Sudan since 1997. Volunteers live and work in local communities, usually teaching conversational English in public universities and other higher education institutions. The aim is to help students gain the speaking and listening skills they rarely get to practise with native speakers.
As a volunteer in Sudan teaching English you will normally work 20–25 hours per week. Around two thirds of this is classroom time and the rest is for lesson planning and informal conversation with students and colleagues. Past volunteers describe the experience as a valuable first step into international development and education work.
What you can gain
- Practical experience for a future career in international aid, development or NGOs
- The chance to learn colloquial and classical Arabic in daily life
- Opportunities to develop teaching and curriculum design skills
- Time off to visit archaeological sites and Sudan’s natural landscapes
- Deep cultural immersion and close contact with local communities
Costs, benefits and requirements
There are no programme or administrative fees to join Sudan Volunteer Programme. Volunteers receive free accommodation and a local living stipend from their host institution. You are usually expected to cover your own international flights, vaccinations, travel insurance and personal travel.
- Accommodation provided and local stipend for basic living costs
- Entry, residency and exit visas supported by SVP
- In-country support from the SVP team
- TEFL or teaching experience is welcome but not essential
- Minimum commitment of around six to seven months, often starting in September or October
- Applicants should be native English speakers (or near-native) and university graduates or near-graduates
Teaching context in Sudan
Most young Sudanese study English for many years at school but have limited opportunities to practise speaking. As a volunteer in Sudan teaching English, your role is to create relaxed, interactive classes that encourage communication and build students’ confidence. Depending on your experience, you may also help with curriculum development or, in some cases, teacher training.
In the past, SVP volunteers have mainly been placed in Khartoum and in northern and eastern Sudan. The political and security situation in Sudan can change, so it is essential to follow the latest travel advice from your government and from SVP. The organisation can put you in touch with recent or current volunteers when placements are running, so you and your family can ask questions directly.
Contact details
For full information and application details, visit:
svp-uk.org
Note: SVP currently reports that it is not operating but hopes to restart. Always check their website for up-to-date status before applying.
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