CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Southern African Wildlife College’s dynamic and progressive Field Ranger Training Scholarship - 2026

The Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC) via a gift agreement through the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE), and in support of the University of Kent, is offering 28 candidates the opportunity to enroll on a comprehensive field ranger training programme with support from the Notsew Orm Sands Foundation.

Selected candidates will be invited to attend the 10-week intensive field ranger training program at the Southern African Wildlife College in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. The program is intended to reinforce basic field ranger fundamentals as well as introduce advanced training concepts. The course is scheduled as follows:

  • Week 1-6: Field Ranger tactics, fieldcraft, bushcraft, operational considerations and advanced skills
  • Week 7: Human Rights in Law Enforcement and Building Trust within and between Rangers and Communities
  • Week 8: Dangerous game awareness
  • Week 9 – 10: Protected Area Security Operations Planning (PASOP) Course

Certification will be provided for candidates who successfully complete the training.

IMPORTANT INFO & DATES

Application closing date:   20th February 2026

Announcement of selected candidates: 20th March 2026

Training commencement date:   27th April 2026

Training completion date: 3rd July 2026

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MORE INFORMATION

General Rules

Only application forms completed correctly, in full, and accompanied by the required supporting documents will be considered.

Required Documents

  1. Copy of the highest educational qualification obtained.
  2. Copy of the applicant’s valid passport.

Selection Criteria:

  1. Be at least 21 years of age and not older than 40 years of age
  2. Be a resident/citizen of the either KAZA member states or KAZA country
  3. Have good communication skills in English is required – both written and spoken – as the course is presented in English.
  4. Be outgoing and motivated with a positive outlook, possess a strong leadership presence and a good work ethic.
  5. Have no criminal record. 
  6. Provide at least two contactable professional references. 
  7. Be independent and self-motivated in order to undertake training outside of their home country.
  8. Be currently employed in a recognized government or private conservation agency within the KAZA region.
  9. Be physically fit and able to meet the demands of field ranger training. Confirmed declaration of fitness (in application form) to be able to pass PT test. Failure to do so will result in dismissal.

Travel and logistics

Successful candidates will receive the following:

  1. Return Flights are provided to South Africa (O.R. Tambo International Airport).
  2. Ground transport between the airport and SAWC will be provided.
  3. Accommodation and meals at the SAWC for the duration of the training.
  4. Training material and equipment will be provided.
  5. Accommodation and Meals at the SAWC for the duration of the training.

Note: Student code of conduct and regulations apply for the duration of the stay at SAWC and South African visa regulations will apply for all travel.

How to Apply

If you are interested in taking up this opportunity to complete this dynamic, balanced and comprehensive field ranger training program, kindly apply by 20th February 2026.

Application requires 2 steps:

  1. Click here to apply by 20th February 2026 and provide your basic documentation.
  2. Email your Key documents (listed below) to applicationskaza@sawc.org.za

Key documents:

  1. Passport copy
  2. Proof of employment
  3. Proof of highest qualification obtained
  4. Curriculum Vitae
  5. References x 2
  6. Contact email and phone number where you may be notified if successful.
  7. A letter from your manager supporting your attendance.

Due to volume of applicants, only successful candidates will be contacted. If you are not contacted in 4 weeks after submission, please consider your application unsuccessful.

APPLICATION FORM

Should you have further questions and/or queries kindly contact:

CONTACT MERCY NTSANDENI
CONTACT MR SCOTT YAMMIN
CONTACT MR JEREMY HANCOCK