The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship is a unique program designed for individuals working in the medical and healthcare fields, including doctors, surgeons, specialists, nurses, physiotherapists, therapists, and students from various medical colleges. This internship, which ranges from 1 to 12 weeks, provides participants with the opportunity to gain firsthand experience and insight into the Palestinian healthcare system.
As part of the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, interns will have the opportunity to explore the structure and operations of hospitals, clinics, primary healthcare centers, rehabilitation facilities, pharmaceutical factories, and other institutions providing essential medical services. They will engage with local healthcare professionals, observe medical procedures, learn about prevalent health issues, and gain insight into the challenges faced by the Palestinian medical sector due to ongoing political and economic constraints.
Additionally, the program sheds light on the environmental impact of the Israeli occupation, particularly its effects on Palestinian agriculture and public health. Participants will learn about the systematic challenges imposed on Palestinian farmers, including:
- The confiscation of land, which severely limits agricultural activities and food production.
- The closure of farmland, often justified as military zones, preventing farmers from accessing their own land.
- The establishment of illegal settlements, which not only consume large portions of Palestinian land but also contribute to environmental degradation.
- The construction of bypass roads that fragment Palestinian territories, disrupting local communities and making land access difficult.
- The theft and control of water resources, leading to severe shortages for Palestinian households and agricultural activities.
The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship provides an in-depth perspective on the intersection between healthcare, environmental sustainability, and political realities in Palestine. It offers an invaluable experience for those seeking to expand their medical knowledge while also understanding the broader socio-political factors that influence health and environmental conditions in the region.
The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to explore the critical challenges facing Palestine’s medical and environmental sectors under occupation. These challenges include shortages in medical supplies, equipment, medications, hospital beds, and ambulances, as well as environmental issues such as resource depletion, pollution in various forms, and poor water quality.
The Aim of the Palestine Healthcare And Environment Internship Program
- Shedding light on the reality of health care and the environment in Palestine.
- Introducing those coming to Palestine to the obstacles and challenges faced by the medical and environmental sectors due to the occupation and the political reality.
- Opening the door for medical/environmental assistance to those who wish to provide any assistance or participate in the development of the Palestinian medical and environmental sectors in any way, whether through actual assistance or the organization of workshops or training for doctors and workers in the Palestinian medical/ environmental sector.
Where does the Palestine Healthcare And Environment Internship take place?
It takes place in the heart of Palestine, in the city of Hebron. Hebron, Al-Khalil in Arabic, is located in the southern part of the West Bank. It is 30 km (19 miles) south of Jerusalem. The population of Hebron is about 300,000 persons who reside in the city, and about another 500,000 who live in the surrounding villages.
How long can I participate in the program?
As a Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship participant, you can choose to join the program for any duration between one and 12 weeks. Regardless of the length of your stay, we will provide full support to ensure you have a unique and enriching experience at our center and in the vibrant city of Hebron.
Is there a specific day I need to start the program?
There is no fixed start day for the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship. You have the flexibility to begin the program on any day that suits you best—Saturday, Monday, Thursday, or any other. This internship is designed to accommodate your schedule, allowing you to start when it’s most convenient for you. There are no restrictions or set starting points, so you can plan your experience around your own routine and preferences.
The Benefits of the Palestine Healthcare & Environment Internship Program
- As a participant in the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, you will meet with professionals in the medical sector, including doctors, medical specialists, paramedics, and surgeons working in hospitals and healthcare centers throughout Hebron. Additionally, you’ll engage with activists and professionals from medical organizations that work to support and strengthen the Palestinian healthcare system. These encounters provide a firsthand understanding of both the practical and advocacy sides of healthcare in Palestine.
- You will meet farmers, and specialists in the agricultural sector and will have the opportunity to discuss and ask questions of them.
- A participant will have the opportunity to organize workshops on a topic related to the program (optional); or present workshops that teach a variety of skills, such as academic writing, writing biography, drawing, first aid, theater, music, and other skills.
- The participant will engage in the Palestinian community, culture, and daily life.
- Participants will be visiting city historical sites.
- All participants will receive 3 hours of Arabic language lessons per week.
- Accommodation is provided for the length of the program, either residing with a Palestinian host family or at our 8th-floor apartment. Private accommodation is also available with extra fees.
- A Palestinian breakfast is provided every day and enjoyed with other international volunteers/interns and staff.
Challenges and Resilience: The Medical Situation in Palestine
The medical situation in Palestine is marked by significant challenges, largely driven by political instability, limited resources, and ongoing conflicts. The healthcare system is fragmented, with services divided between the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem, each facing unique obstacles.
In the West Bank, restrictions on movement due to checkpoints and the separation barrier hinder access to medical facilities. Meanwhile, Gaza faces severe shortages of essential medicines, medical equipment, and electricity, compounded by years of blockade and recurrent military escalations. The lack of adequate funding further strains hospitals and clinics, impacting the delivery of quality care to patients.
Despite these hardships, healthcare professionals in Palestine continue to demonstrate resilience and dedication. Many work in under-resourced facilities, addressing the health needs of a population affected by physical and psychological trauma. International humanitarian organizations have stepped in to provide support, but the growing demand often outpaces available resources.
The situation is further exacerbated by chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, alongside the need for specialized care for injured individuals. Addressing the healthcare crisis in Palestine requires not only increased funding and resources but also sustainable solutions to the broader socio-political challenges.
Healthcare Crisis in Palestine
- As of 2019, Palestine had 85 hospitals with a total of 6,435 beds, equating to 1.3 beds per 1,000 inhabitants. The West Bank accounted for 53 hospitals with 3,950 beds, while the Gaza Strip had 32 hospitals with 2,485 beds.
- The healthcare infrastructure has suffered significant damage due to ongoing conflicts. In Gaza, the number of hospital beds decreased from 3,500 before October 7 to just 1,400, with only 800 beds available in fixed hospitals.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented over 1,000 attacks on healthcare facilities in the occupied Palestinian territories since October 2023, further straining the healthcare system.
What Else Can I Do as an Intern ? (Optional)
- As a participant in the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, you can also organize workshops, seminars, or lectures on topics you’re knowledgeable and passionate about. Whether it’s at the University of Hebron or at our center, we’ll assist you in making all the necessary arrangements to ensure your contribution is well-prepared, impactful, and engaging for the local community.
- As part of the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, we will connect you with the University or host your event at our center, targeting local Palestinian participants. These workshops can run for one to three days, or be adjusted to fit your availability. We’ll manage announcements, logistics, and participant coordination, so you can focus on delivering impactful content and engaging fully with the local community.
- Our center is fully equipped with everything you might need, including a screen, projector, whiteboard, laptop, and more. You’ll have all the support required to deliver an impactful and engaging session.
200+ Reviews from Past Participants – Gold verified by Go Overseas!
To learn more about the experiences of participants with “Go Palestine,” you can explore reviews on well-known platforms such as Go Overseas and GoAbroad. The organization has consistently received over 200 positive reviews on both websites combined from volunteers and interns worldwide.
These testimonials highlight the outstanding quality, rich cultural exchange opportunities, and impactful programs provided by Go Palestine through its initiatives like the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, internships, or Arabic language courses, these reviews offer valuable insights into the organization’s dedication to creating meaningful and transformative experiences for all participants.
What does your weekly schedule look like?
We at GO Palestine are keen to make your weekly schedule diversified, rich, and organized. Thus, it will contain a number of educational, social, and fun activities that will make your experience in the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship program truly special and unique.
Breakfast starts at 9:30 am
The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship begins each day with a special Palestinian breakfast at 9:30 AM, ending around 10:15. This meal offers a rich cultural experience, featuring traditional items like Palestinian thyme (Zaatar), labneh, falafel, hummus, olives, pita bread, and more. Ingredients are rotated from time to time to keep breakfast diverse and flavorful, helping interns immerse themselves in local customs and hospitality right from the start of their day.
The Content of the program starts at 10:30
The content of your program begins at 10:30 in the morning and continues until 1:30 or 2:00 in the afternoon. This may include field visits, meetings with doctors, medical consultants and paramedics, in addition to visiting various hospitals and health centers in Hebron. In addition, the program includes teaching conversational English to a number of Palestinian students.
Lunch Break starts at 2:00 pm
During the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, your lunch break begins at 2:00 PM and lasts for a full hour. You’ll find plenty of restaurants near the center, offering options like shawarma, falafel, fried chicken, and traditional Palestinian dishes such as Maqluba, Hebron’s Qidreh, Chicken Mansaf, or Lamb Mansaf. For those who prefer to cook, there are also several supermarkets and malls nearby where you can shop for ingredients and prepare your meals at the center. This flexibility ensures you stay well-fed and comfortable during your internship experience.
Arabic Language Classes (MSA and Levantine/Colloquial)
Weekly, you will get two Arabic language classes for an hour and a half each. These classes are taught by one of our skilled/qualified teachers. Arabic language classes are held at different times, either in the morning or, in most cases, in the afternoon. The student can choose whether to study Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Arabic (Ammiya), or both.
Day Trips to Refugee Camps in Bethlehem & Hebron
Once every week, a day trip is organized to the refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as to areas of political importance whenever the opportunity arises. These trips will give you the opportunity to learn about the conditions of the Palestinian refugees, talk to them and learn their stories. These trips depart at 10:45 am from the center and end approx. at 2:00 or 3:00 in the afternoon.
Local Visits to Learn about the Landmarks of the city of Hebron
Once every two weeks, local visits are organized to the historical and economic landmarks of the city of Hebron. This includes a visit to the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Old City, and Al-Shuhada Street as well as visiting a number of factories in the city, such as keffiyeh, glass, and ceramic factories.
Prepare & Cook a Traditional Palestinian Dish
Once every two or three weeks, all our volunteers, interns, and Arabic language’ students join together to prepare and cook a traditional Palestinian dish. This includes preparing appetizers, frying vegetables, cooking rice, chopping chicken or meat, and stuffing some vegetables depending on the dish to be cooked that day.
Free Time starts at 16:00 or at 16:30
After your time in the center is over, you have free time where you can hang out with other international participants and/or locals you met during your stay in Hebron by going to a café or coffee shop or going to a park and enjoying your time in the evening. There are many cafes and parks not far from the center, as the center is located on one of the most lively streets in the city.
The Palestine Healthcare & Environment Internship Fees
350$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 3 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
690$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 6 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
965$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 9 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1200$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 12 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1500$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 15 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1750$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 18 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1950$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 21 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
1990$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 24 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
2500$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 27 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
2750$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 30 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
2950$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 33 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
3150$
American DollarsThis includes accommodation, local visits, 36 hours of Arabic classes, daily Palestinian breakfast, day trips, and a certificate of participation.
What does the participation fee include?
| Accommodation | Host family or at our 8th-floor apartment Private accommodation is available with extra fees |
| Feild Visits/Meetings | To visit local hospitals, healthcare centers, environmental organizations, and related activities. |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Three Classes/ 1,5 hours each. |
| Meals | Daily Palestinian breakfast at the center |
| Day Trips | To Refugees camps in Hebron & Bethlehem & some areas of political importance |
| Sightseeings in Hebron | Historical & politically important sites in Hebron and Hebron factories. |
| Certificate of Participation | Certificate of participation & recommendation letter at the end of the program |
How to pay the fees? (Payment Options)
- You may pay your participation fees either by Bank Transfer or by Western Union or MoneyGram. Payment via Western Union and MoneyGram, you can do the transfer online using your credit card.
- Payment of fees and signing of the participation contract must be made to reserve your place in the program.
- In participation fees that exceed $800, the applicant can pay 40% in advance and the rest of the 60% must be paid 45 days before the date of participation.
- Unfortunately, the participation fees can’t be paid in cash, as we arrange your participation ahead of time.
Navigation Guide : Navigate with Ease
When Should You Arrive to Start Your Program?
We recommend arriving in Palestine a day before your chosen start date. This gives you time to settle in and prepare for the experience. As part of your Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, you can also stay an extra day after the program ends to ensure a smooth and relaxed departure.
What Visa Do You Need to Intern in Palestine?
To join the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, you’ll need an Israeli tourist visa, which allows you to stay for up to 3 months. Obtaining an internship visa directly in Palestine can be challenging, so entering on a tourist visa is the most common and practical option.
Visa Requirements for Palestine
If you’re joining the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship and you’re from a country with a visa exemption agreement with Israel, you can receive a tourist visa upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby-King Hussein Bridge border crossing. Citizens of countries such as the United States and many European nations are typically granted a three-month visa on arrival, making participation in the program easier and more accessible.
If your country doesn’t have an exemption agreement, you’ll need to get a visa from the Israeli embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling. Israel now issues visas on a separate card with a barcode to avoid passport stamps, as some Arab countries do not accept Israeli passport stamps. Be sure to check if your country participates in a visa exemption agreement.
What If Your Passport Isn’t Suitable for a Tourist Visa?
If you’re joining the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship and you’re from a country like Pakistan or India, you’ll need to apply for a visa from the Israeli embassy in your country before beginning your internship. This process can be challenging, as Israel controls all entry points, making the visa a mandatory requirement before you can even submit your program application.
Is the West Bank Safe for Interning?
Yes, the West Bank is generally safe for interning. Most incidents occur in areas far from the main cities where Go Palestine programs are held. Cities like Hebron, Bethlehem, and Ramallah, where most programs take place, are stable and safe.
Interns often find the local community welcoming and supportive, which adds to the sense of security. However, we recommend staying updated on local news and following any safety advice from your hosts.
Is Prior Experience Required to Intern in Palestine?
No prior experience is required to join the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship. Our programs are open to people from all backgrounds, regardless of their previous experience. We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can contribute, learn, and make a meaningful impact during their time in Palestine.
What matters most is your enthusiasm and dedication. Our team will be with you every step of the way, whether you’re experienced or just starting out. We invite you to join us in making a positive impact in this remarkable region.
Do I Need to Know How to Speak Arabic?
No, knowing Arabic is not a requirement for those joining the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship. The center offers three hours of Arabic lessons per week with one of our experienced teachers. You’ll have the option to study Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha) or Spoken Arabic (Ammiya) depending on your preference once the program begins. This ensures that language won’t be a barrier to fully engaging with the community and your internship experience.
Can I Add More Arabic Lessons to My Program?
Yes, you can add extra Arabic lessons to your Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship. These additional lessons are available for $20 per hour and offer a deeper understanding of both the Arabic language and Palestinian culture. If you’re interested in this option, just mention it in your application, and we’ll make sure to arrange it in advance for a smoother experience.
| Place of Program | Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine |
| Age | 18-75 Years Old |
| Minimum Period | One Week |
| Maximum Period | Three Months – 12 Weeks |
| Interning Hours | 4-5 hours a day – 5 days a week |
| Starting/Ending Dates | Flexible – Anytime |
| Application Deadline | No Deadline |
| Program Language | English |
| Days off | Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Standard Arabic Or Ammiya |
| Educational Degree | Not Required |
| University Credit | Available |
Is it possible to combine this program with another Program?
Yes, this program can be combined with one or more of the other internship or volunteer programs that the center offers. For example, you may choose one week or more to complete this program, and combine this with another week or more of another program.
Can I Extend My Program While I’m There?
Yes, it is possible to extend the duration of your Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship while you’re in Palestine. If you decide to stay longer, you’re more than welcome to continue your participation. Just make sure to inform the center coordinator at least one week before your current program ends. This gives us enough time to make the necessary arrangements and ensure everything runs smoothly. Be sure to reach out early to discuss your extension and confirm all details in advance.
Things to know before visiting Palestine!
| Living Costs in Palestine | Approx. 50-70$ a Week |
| Weekend in Palestine | On Friday |
| Food in Palestine | The West Bank engages primarily in heavier meals involving the use of bread, rice, and meat, and coastal plain inhabitants frequent fish, other seafood, and lentils. |
| Wifi Access in Palestine | At houses, cafes, restaurants – Almost everywhere |
| 3G Service in Palestine | Available since Jan 2018 |
| The official language in Palestine | Arabic – Palestinian Dialect (One of the Levantine dialects) |
| Currency in Palestine | Mainly Israeli Shekel (NIS). Jordanian Dinar & American Dollars are also used in buying Real estate and land. |
| Transportations in Palestine | Yellow Taxies & Orange Mini-Vans |
| Weather in Palestine | Summer (25-30°C), Winter (0-9°C) |
| Nearest Major Airports to Palestine | Ben Gurion Airport in Israel if you travel via Israel Alia International Airport if you travel via Jordan |
The Documents you’ll receive from us!
When you join the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, you’ll receive a complete set of documents to ensure a smooth and well-informed experience. Among these is our comprehensive travel guide, which provides detailed instructions on how to reach us in Hebron. It outlines the best transportation options, making your journey to the program location as easy and convenient as possible.
In addition, we’ll provide you with a weekly schedule booklet, which outlines the activities and events planned for each day of your program. This will help you organize your time and ensure that you make the most of every opportunity. To further enrich your experience, you’ll also receive an orientation booklet. This booklet is designed to help you get familiar with the local culture and surroundings, offering valuable insights into life in Hebron. It will provide you with a deeper understanding of the city’s history, traditions, and unique atmosphere, ensuring that you feel more connected to the place during your stay.
What can be added to your program? “Add-ons“
- Private apartment available as an add-on for $200 per week or $600–$700 per month.
Would you like to join an online Arabic course before joining us?
Learning Arabic before your arrival for the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship can greatly enhance your experience. Familiarizing yourself with basic Arabic phrases and cultural expressions will help you feel more confident when communicating with locals, navigating everyday situations, and engaging with the local culture. By making an effort to understand the language, you’ll be better equipped to connect with people, enrich your interactions, and fully immerse yourself in the rich Palestinian culture, making your time in Palestine even more meaningful and rewarding.
We’re excited to offer you the chance to start this journey with a free trial, which includes your first class completely free! This is a great opportunity to get a taste of the Arabic language and see how it can enrich your time in Palestine. Click Here for more information!
Who can apply to this Internship program?
- The Palestinian Center has hosted people who have come from a myriad of countries, such as the USA, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Colombia, France, Japan, China, Chile, Switzerland, Russia, Germany, and many more.
- The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship is open to all individuals between the ages of 18 – 75. People from all countries and academic backgrounds are welcome to join this inclusive and enriching program. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply passionate about healthcare, the environment, or cultural exchange, this opportunity is designed to provide valuable experiences for participants from all walks of life.
- Those who are younger than 18 years old can also apply but with one condition. One of your parents has to fill out and sign a parental consent form.
When will I be able to apply to the Program?
- The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship has no application deadline, meaning you can apply at any time throughout the year. This flexibility allows you to plan your experience based on your own schedule, ensuring that you can participate when it’s most convenient for you.
- You are allowed to choose when you want to start and end the program.
- The Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship offers flexible participation durations, with a minimum commitment of one week and a maximum of 12 weeks (three months). This allows you to choose a timeframe that best suits your goals, availability, and level of involvement.
Can I join the program through funding from the university?
Yes, you can join the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship with funding from your university. We’ll assist you with all the necessary paperwork, including an invitation letter, a contract, and any required documents. However, please note that we do not offer direct funding ourselves, as our operations are sustained by fees from international programs.
Flexible Scheduling with a One-Year Adjustment Window
We understand that convenience is key when planning your trip for the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship. That’s why we offer a full year of flexibility to adjust your program’s start date, giving you the freedom to begin whenever suits you best and plan your experience at your own pace.
Whether you wish to start your program earlier, extend your stay, or finish sooner, we are here to accommodate your needs. Your experience is our top priority, and we are committed to ensuring that your journey is as smooth, personalized, and stress-free as possible. Whatever adjustments you require, we’ll work with you to make sure your time with us aligns with your goals and expectations, allowing you to make the most of your time in Palestine.
How do I register or obtain more information?
Please email Mr.Tamimi, at info@gopalestine.ps Please type “ The Healthcare And Environment Internship in Palestine” in the subject line. In the body of the email, ask any questions you may have, and request an application. Very shortly, we will reply to you.
What is the procedure for applying?
| Step 1 | Send us an email asking for the application form. |
| Step 2 | You complete the online application and send it in. |
| Step 3 | We invite you to participate in an interview via WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet (video or voice call). |
| Step 4 | We will send you a confirmation form which you fill out and return to us. |
| Step 5 | We send you the Invitation Letter, the contract and the invoice. |
| Step 6 | You will sign the contract and make payment in order to reserve your place in the program. |
| Step 7 | We will send you an orientation booklet and travel guide to Palestine. |
Fast-Track Application – Within 3 days!
If you’re looking to join the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship next week or need to make arrangements on short notice, we’ve got you covered with our convenient fast-track application process. This streamlined option is designed to save you time and make it easy for you to get started right away.
With the fast-track process for the Palestine Healthcare and Environment Internship, you can quickly book your flight, submit your application, attend a personalized interview, pay the necessary fees, and secure your place—all within just three days. Whether you’re in a hurry or simply excited to begin, our system ensures a smooth and efficient onboarding experience.
