Public Health Educator in Eswatini

Job description

We are looking for U.S. citizens who want to be a part of something bigger and are willing to go the distance to make a difference. Is that you?

In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps Volunteers are putting their purpose, passion, and skills to work in partnership with welcoming host communities – growing, teaching, learning, and making change together.

As a Peace Corps Volunteer, you'll live and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects, receiving a stipend and other support as you immerse yourself in a new culture. You’ll build relationships, exchange knowledge, and help transform lives for generations.

About the project

Rural communities in Eswatini are looking to promote healthy behaviors among the youth and improve health clinics processes.

Eswatini has made major strides in HIV education and is the first African country close to meeting the UNAIDS 2030 target goals. Still, significant challenges persist. HIV prevalence among individuals age 15 and above remains 27 percent, and both frequent medicine shortages and high HIV-TB co-infection rates strain the country’s health system. STIs are widespread among youth with about 25 percent of tested young women ages 20-24 having an STI. Knowledge and behavior gaps also slow progress. Only half of young people understand HIV transmission, less than half of unmarried youth consistently use condoms, and only 30 percent know how to use them correctly.

As Public Health Educator, you will facilitate clubs and activities that promote life skills and healthy behaviors for youth ages 9-24. Alongside health workers, you will identify ways to improve the clinical supply chain process. More informed young people and stronger health systems will reduce the transmission of HIV and STIs for a healthier, more resilient country.

Learn more about what Volunteers do in country by visiting our Eswatini project page.