Your support goes to where it’s needed most, and to an area that you or your organisation feels most passionate about.
The Southern African Wildlife College works with a diverse field of supporters and funders who share an appreciation for wildlife and a commitment to conserving Africa’s natural heritage. We believe that understanding the broader context of conservation is vital. Above all, we strive to maximise the effectiveness of conservation approaches within the local context.
It is crucial that communities have a say in wildlife management and that local people benefit from wildlife and protected areas. The important role that animal management plays in maintaining the biodiversity within these protected areas contributes to the concept of responsible resource use, which is at the core of our operation. All of our funders and partners in conservation are equally committed to this principle, and give us the invaluable support we need to train and equip the custodians of Africa’s wildlife
Donations to General College Operations go towards our core running costs. These funds are crucial in creating the enabling environment for our conservation and education work and without which we would not be able to remain operational. Here you can also consider becoming an anchor or core donor to the College.
Natural Resource Managers
This programme aims to develop future generations of Natural Resource Managers with the requisite understanding and practical skills to manage their areas effectively and in cooperation with local communities.
Field Rangers
The field ranger is at the forefront of anti-poaching and conservation efforts throughout Africa and globally. As the law enforcement component of nature conservation, Rangers work in sometimes harsh and hostile environments. To do their jobs ethically, effectively, and safely, they need to be well trained and well prepared.
Field Guides
The Responsible Resource Use and Field Guiding Department is committed to the idea that the responsible use of Africa’s wildlife resources is essential to their conservation.
Youth wanting to work in the conservation sector
The College continues to have a positive impact on the development of the youth in South Africa, opening doors for them through providing marketable skill sets in the context of conservation and the environment. Through our RISE unit, we work with communities residing near or within protected areas to facilitate their involvement in conservation and the flow of related benefits.
K9 Unit
The introduction of specially trained dogs into the anti-poaching arsenal is proving to be highly effective, both as tracking dogs with handlers, and as free-running packs with the ability to track and apprehend. They are a force multiplier, which allows the rangers to be more effective. Read more about our K9 Unit.
Aerial Support Unit
Aerial support is critical to counter-poaching operations and data collection for conservation management. Read more about our aerial support.
The sustainability of the College is preempted by a shared vision for conservation in Africa to succeed; backed up by the necessary training, skills development and thought leadership.
The overall goal: To create a group of people that recognise the importance of the College’s role within the conservation landscape, who believe in the SAWC and who want to ensure the College’s continued success.
Leave a lasting legacy for conservation in Africa by supporting the College’s sustainability. The SAWC has two investment portfolios/funding vehicles; its more recently established endowment fund and a capital fund set up and managed by WWF South Africa to help support the College in perpetuity.
With these funding vehicles, the aim is to ensure a vibrant, adequately funded regional conservation education, training and skills development institution that continues to positively impact conservation and the lives of the people it trains.
Both Funds are also a wonderful repository for living wills and bequests in support of leaving a lasting legacy for conservation in Africa.