Pretoria: 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.

According to South African Government News Agency, 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. 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, Dr. George noted.

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.