In most cases, as a short term missionary, you will receive both a European based orientation before departure as well as a country-specific orientation upon arrival in the country of service.
During this orientation, you will cover topics like AIMโs history and vision, the culture and worldview of where you are going, health, safety, maintaining spiritual vitality while serving, communication, and travel.
The orientation in Africa at the start of your assignment will range in length from 1-5 days depending on your assignment type. It generally includes a mini language acquisition course called LAMP-lite. This field-based orientation will also equip you in practical matters such as navigating public transportation, cultural sensitivity, setting up housekeeping, operating in a new currency, AIM policies in the specific country, as well as safety plans.