Through Global Health Squads, high school students, alongside our local health teams, support clinics and participate in public health campaigns at schools to improve health outcomes in under-resourced communities around the world. Students conduct healthcare screenings, facilitate educational workshops, and contribute to infrastructure projects all while getting hands-on experience in international medicine and global health.

Volunteers at the Boca de Chiguri

A few days ago, the McKenzie Center for Innovation and Tech (MCIT) traveled to Panama to participate in a Global Health Squad. Volunteers began their trip by completing the construction of a sanitary unit to support the hygiene and overall health of students at the Boca de Chiguiri Preschool. The students collaborated with local masons to pour concrete, constructing columns and walls to complete the school’s bathroom. They worked alongside the community, engaging in tasks such as cement mixing, frame assembly, concrete pouring, slab construction, and working with rebar structures.

Health screenings in the community of La Candelaria and El Escobal

During MCIT’s Global Health Squads in Panama, volunteers also conducted health screenings in the community of La Candelaria and El Escobal, checking blood pressure, weight, and height, and providing an educational workshop on nutrition and exercise. The volunteers also learned more about community health interventions by participating in a Community Health Worker program assessment.

MCIT students playing games with local students.

Squads Abroad also provides students the opportunity for meaningful cultural exchange. MCIT participated in activities such as visiting the Museo de La Mola, making a “mola” painting, learning the process of making tamales, making their own artisan souvenirs out of soapstone, visiting the Panama Canal and exploring the Casco Viejo area. 

If you are interested in organizing a Global Health Squad for your students, please schedule a call with our team or request more information and we will reach out with more details. We hope to see you on a Squad Abroad soon!