Well, I'm set now to depart March 9th which is a few weeks later then what was originally planned. All the turmoil that is occurring in Madagascar is the reason for my delayed departure. The toolbar to the right lists the most recent news for Madagascar from Google News so you can get an understanding of the situation there. Here's a little bit about my assignment and what I plan on doing over there.
Program: Small Enterprise Development
Job Title: Small Business Advisor
Pre-Service Training: I will be staying with a host-family in a town about an hour outside the capital, Anatanarivo. For three months, seven days a week I will be taught by PeaceCorps volunteers. Training will include six components, language (most likely Malagasy, the native language), technical, cross-culture, admin, personal health and safety.
Living Conditions: Assuming that I successfully complete my training I will be relocated somewhere on the island. Either my community will build me a house or they will identify one for me to rent. Most likely I'll have no running water and limited electricity.
Job Description: My primary duties will be to assist in the expansion of microfinance instutions that support income-generating activities, work with potential entreupeneurs to develop their own skills, work with NGOs, etc. Most volunteers take up secondary projects such as teaching English or working with youth groups.
