This is according to the CEO of SANParks, Hapiloe Sello who said SANParks recognises that most of its national parks are in rural areas with limited opportunities for development, and high levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequality… “in an effort to address these challenges, the organisation has taken a decision to support young people leaving adjacent its national parks with study bursaries for the 2024 academic year.”
She said the bursary scheme is part of SANParks Community Social Legacy Programme aimed at addressing a broad spectrum of community social needs. “This is funded through the 1% tourism levy (initiated in 2012) on all accommodation bookings and provides a perfect opportunity for both SANParks and its guests to be philanthropic and assist in the creation of legacy projects in the communities around the park.”
Sello said this important announcement is in line with the recently launched, SANParks Vision 2040, which strives to create protected areas and a protected area agency that is not only healthy, sustainable, and climate-resilient but also instill a sense of belonging, healing, and inspiration among all South Africans. “This will in our view assist in re-awakening national pride and establish world-class standards in every aspect, ensuring prosperity with tangible and intangible benefits flowing to all stakeholders.”
To qualify, learners’ academic merit will be considered during the selection process, as well as the imperative to increase the participation of women, people living with disability and designated groups need to be South African, aged 18 to 35, and be living in one of the communities adjacent to a National Parks as defined in the individual park management plans.
The fields of study that can be applied for, but are not limited to, include a Degree and/or National Diploma in the field of:
- Environmental Sciences including Nature Conservation, Environmental management, and Game ranch management
- Tourism studies/Hospitality management
- Community Development and Development studies
These bursaries are comprehensive and for full-time studies toward an academic diploma/degree at an accredited public South African College/University of Technology/University. “The future of our national parks lies in the hand of the youth, and we need to build and nurture the future scientists, hospitality managers and even the future SANParks CEO now,” concluded Sello.
How to Apply:
Email us at: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
Enquiries: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org or 012 426 5166
