From the Editor
As we prepare to enter the final quarter of the year, the College is busy as ever, both in what we’re achieving as an institution and the various initiatives our different training departments are involved in. As a non-profit, public benefit institution, we continue developing our partnerships with donors, strategic partners and regional conservation training institutions.
Key to the last quarter has been the progress made on our sustainability strategy, which includes mobilising new and alternative funding mechanisms. Of huge significance is the receipt of the largest grant in the College’s history, with an incredible investment of €2.5m from the MAVA Fondation pour la Nature via Peace Parks Foundation towards the College’s Sustainability Fund. (See full story under Donor News)
While this makes a huge difference and is received with immense gratitude, it’s important to not lose sight of the fact that these funds will, as per the grant agreement, be part of an investment strategy to help secure the College moving forward. An investment strategy that will essentially have two funding vehicles, one managed by the College, with the support of its Board and Audit Committee and the other by way of the Southern African Wildlife College Trust (SAWCT), managed by WWF-SA.
This means that as we continue to grow these investments, we will still need to find ways to ensure that the costs of training are covered and that the necessary funding is in place to cover the College’s project and operational costs. And here we must thank everyone who continues to support the vital day- to-day work we do; highlights of which are covered in this issue of The Bateleur News.
Jeanné Poultney
Executive Manager – Marketing, Fundraising and Media Relations
Southern African Wildlife College
