The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has encouraged aspiring conservationists to enrol in the Southern African Wildlife College’s (SAWC) accredited National Diploma programme.

This comes after the institution was recently accredited for its National Diploma programme, which the Minister described as a gamechanger for conservation education in South Africa.

“It empowers the Southern African Wildlife College to train skilled professionals who will lead the charge in safeguarding our wildlife and natural heritage.

“I urge young South Africans to seize this opportunity and enrol in this programme. By building a career in conservation, you can help protect our beautiful wildlife, combat poaching, and create sustainable job opportunities that will benefit our communities and our environment,” the Minister said on Friday.

This significant milestone highlights the college’s steadfast commitment to excellence in environmental education and conservation training, aligning closely with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment's mandate to protect and sustainably manage South Africa’s natural resources.

“The accreditation of the SAWC’s National Diploma underscores the institution’s critical role in equipping future conservationists with the skills and knowledge required to tackle pressing environmental complexities, including the fight against poaching in South Africa’s national reserves. 

“By offering a nationally recognised qualification, the SAWC solidifies its position as a leader in wildlife management education, nurturing professionals who will contribute to preserving South Africa’s rich biodiversity and promoting sustainable development across the region,” the Minister said.

This achievement reflects the value of collaboration between educational institutions, government, and conservation stakeholders in advancing the objectives of the National Qualifications Framework. 

It supports the department’s vision of fostering a prosperous and equitable society that lives in harmony with its natural resources, as enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa.

 “The Southern African Wildlife College is setting a benchmark for conservation training, and we are proud to partner with them in this vital mission,” he said. 

The department said it looks forward to continued collaboration with the college to advance environmental stewardship, create job opportunities, and ensure the protection of South Africa’s wildlife for future generations. -