SANParks is pleased to extend an invitation for the South African National Parks Bursaries for the year 2025. This esteemed program provides aspiring conservationists and environmentalists with the opportunity to pursue their studies with financial support from SANParks.
SANParks is dedicated to fostering the development of future leaders in conservation and biodiversity management.
About South African National Parks
The South African National Parks (SANParks) is a leading conservation authority in South Africa, renowned for its commitment to the preservation and management of the country’s national parks. Established in 1926, SANParks oversees 19 national parks spread across various ecosystems, from the iconic Kruger National Park to the breathtaking Table Mountain National Park.
South African National Parks Bursaries Fields of Study Covered
The bursaries cover a diverse range of fields critical to environmental conservation, sustainable tourism, and social development:
Environmental Sciences
- Nature Conservation: Focuses on the protection and management of natural resources.
- Environmental Management: Involves strategies to improve and sustain the environment.
- Green Energy: Studies renewable energy sources and technologies.
- Environmental Engineering: Applies engineering principles to solve environmental problems.
- Sustainable Development: Integrates economic development with environmental protection.
- Game Ranch Management: Combines wildlife management with business principles.
Tourism
- Hospitality Management: Prepares students for managing hotels and resorts.
- Resort Management: Focuses on the operation and management of holiday resorts.
- Tour Guide: Trains individuals to guide and inform tourists.
- Events and Conference Management: Covers the planning and management of events.
Social Sciences
- Community Development: Aims at improving the quality of life in communities.
- Economic Development: Focuses on the economic growth and development of regions.
- Socio-Economic Development: Studies the intersection of social and economic growth.
- Related Development Studies: Encompasses various aspects of development studies.
Comprehensive Bursary Details
To ensure the bursaries reach those most in need and most capable of making a difference, SANParks has outlined specific criteria:
- Academic Merit and Diversity: Consideration is given to academic performance and the need to increase diversity among recipients, including women, people with disabilities, and other designated groups.
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Proximity to National Parks: Preference is given to individuals from communities adjacent to National Parks.
- Proof of Application and Admission: Applicants must provide proof of application and admission to an accredited institution.
- Post-Matric Studies: Applicants must be starting post-matric studies in 2025.
- TVET Colleges: Open to students pursuing qualifications at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Current University Students: Must have a 100% pass rate for the previous study period.
How to Apply
- Submit Applications to:
- Happy Nhlangwini
- Email: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
- Telephone: 012 426 5173
- Required Documents:
- Motivation letter explaining reasons for applying and chosen field of study.
- Comprehensive updated CV.
- Certified copy of identity document.
- Certified copy of latest academic record.
- Acceptance letter from accredited public institution (university, TVET college, etc.).
- Proof of residential address.
- Affidavit if receiving a social grant, stating income is below the threshold.
- Application Notes:
- Applications must be for full-time studies towards an academic diploma/degree at a South African public institution.
- Failure to submit required documents will invalidate the application.
Closing Date:
- Applications must be submitted by 17 August 2024.
Related: Aurora Wind Power Bursary Programme
Prospective candidates are encouraged to seize the opportunity and apply for the SANParks Bursaries 2025. By following the detailed application process and submitting all necessary documentation before the closing date of 17 August 2024, applicants can enhance their chances of securing financial support for their academic endeavors in fields pivotal to conservation, tourism, and social development.
SANParks eagerly anticipates receiving applications from passionate individuals dedicated to making a positive impact on South Africa’s natural heritage and the communities surrounding National Parks.