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Team of volunteer in OCIP program

OCIP

Educational Institutes

Overseas Community Involvement Project

Transforming Lives Through Service Learning in Cambodia

Empower your students with hands-on community service in Cambodia, fostering global citizenship and leadership skills. OHF’s structured OCIP programs align with Singapore’s educational goals, offering safe, ethical, and impactful volunteering experiences.

Caroline

Operation Manager

What is OCIP?

OCIP is a service-learning program for Singaporean schools and youth groups that combines community development with cross-cultural exchange. Supported by Singapore’s Ministry of Education, these trips:
  • Develop empathy and leadership in students.
  • Address real needs in underserved communities.
  • Partner with OHF’s 15+ years of expertise in Cambodia.
Programs for schools who want their students to have meaningful experience helping poor communities outside Singapore. Individuals or groups who take part will be given an opportunity to contribute to worldwide development initiatives and also acquire fresh perspectives and experiences.

Why Choose OHF for OCIP?

With over 20 years of experience and our own team of 35 Khmer staff in Cambodia, OHF is able to organize projects for school teams. We have our own accommodation, vehicles and equipment. We do not rely on external contractors. OHF is well known in the community and has good relations with officials and community leaders.
  • Proven Impact: Built 500+ homes and 600+ toilets since 2010. Meaningful hands-on experience for volunteers.for structured, ethical projects. For example , a Singapore school has developed a computer program to help Khmer kids learn English.
  • Proven Track Record: With over 20 years experience, our projects are appreciated by the local community. OHF Cambodia can provide support and rectification if there are problems with the project, especially construction projects. OHF Cambodia has staff, vehicles and accommodation.
  • Safety First: Dedicated staff, secure accommodations, and pre-built project stages.
  • All projects coordinated from OHF Singapore. Any incidents will be reported and response coordinated from Singapore. Anxious parents can call OHF Singapore .
  • Ethical Focus: Projects are community-requested and sustainable. As a Singapore registered charity, we are accountable for expenses spent by volunteers . The objective is not to make profit but to help the poor.

OCIP Program Structure

Types of OCIP Projects

Project Type Activities Duration
Infrastructure Build houses, wells, or toilets 5–7 days
Education Teach English, conduct STEM workshops 3–5 days
Community Support Distribute milk, hygiene kits 1–2 days
Cultural Exchange Village homestays, traditional craft sessions Flexible

Project Locations

Prey Veng, Cambodia: OHF’s primary site for building/teaching projects.
Phnom Penh: Optional cultural visits (e.g., Killing Fields, Royal Palace).

Sample 7-Day Itinerary

Day Morning Afternoon Evening
1 Arrive in Phnom Penh Transfer to Prey Veng OHF Orientation
2-5 Build houses/wells Teach English or distribute supplies Reflection sessions
6 Handover ceremony Cultural activities Debrief dinner
7 Return to Singapore — —

OHF’s 6-Step OCIP Planning Timeline

Start planning 3–6 months ahead for a seamless experience!
Step Timeline Task Why It Matters
1 3–6 months before Submit a request to OHF with dates, team size, and project preference. Ensures project availability and staff allocation.
2 Within 14 days Pay SGD 300 deposit to secure a slot. Popular dates (e.g., school holidays) fill quickly.
3 2–3 months before Confirm trip in writing from OHF; book flights. Avoids last-minute flight price surges.
4 1 month before Finalize payments (donation + in-country costs) and submit indemnity forms. OHF orders materials and schedules local labour.
5 1–2 weeks before Attend OHF’s pre-trip briefing (safety, culture, packing). Prepares students for rural conditions and team dynamics.
6 Trip week Depart! OHF handles all ground logistics. Students focus on service while OHF manages worksites, meals, and accommodations.
Pro Tip: For large teams (20+), begin 6 months early to coordinate flights and fundraising.

Who can join OCIP?

Secondary Schools/JCs:

Minimum team of 8 students (+ teachers).

Polytechnics/Universities:

Customizable projects for older youth.

Educators:

OHF assists with MOE paperwork and risk assessments.
Cost: From SGD 350/student (covers donations + in-country logistics).

FAQs

1. How is OCIP different from YEP?
OCIP is broader (open to all ages/groups); YEP offers grants for youth aged 15–35.
2. What funding support is available?
OHF helps schools apply for MOE grants and fundraising strategies.
3. Is prior experience needed?
No! OHF provides tools, training, and 24/7 professional guidance.
4. When should we apply?
3–6 months ahead (see 6-step timeline).

Case Study: Dunman High School’s OCIP Trip

Project: Built 2 houses + conducted STEM workshops.
Impact: 12 families gained clean water access; 50+ children attended classes.

OCIP Impact & Success Stories

Testimonials

“Our students returned with newfound humility and purpose. The house we built now shelters a family of six.”
— Mrs. Tan, Teacher-in-Charge, Raffles Institution
“Teaching English to Cambodian kids showed me the power of small actions.”
— Aisyah, JC Student Participant

    Bring OCIP to Your School Today!

    Limited 2024 slots available! OHF customizes itineraries to your goals and budget.

    Enquire Now

    Genuine Hands-on experience under Supervision of experienced OHF staff. OHF Cambodia has over 20 years experience with volunteer projects.

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