About the Skukuza Science Leadership Initiative (SSLI)

The Nsasani Trust and its partners, South African National Parks (SANParks) and the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), are leading a new initiative that focuses on developing science leadership and capacity for South Africa. This initiative entails the development of holistic education and training courses designed to better prepare individuals to handle complex environmental and social problems, as well as the creation of an inspirational and sustainably-built learning space in the Kruger National Park.

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Through multi-level programming, contribution to long term research, the linking of existing science training and research in the KNP, and the building of a sustainable education and training facility this initiative will contribute to a hub for science leadership in Skukuza. The hub will bring together local and international scientists and park managers and ensure that intellectual capital and science skills are transferred to developing South African science students and technicians.

The core programming concept for the Skukuza Science Leadership Initiative is depicted in the diagram below. The streamed, partnered programme, supported by the Skukuza Science Leadership Centre yields three key products:

Research

Programs contribute to SANParks long term research objectives.

RESEARCH AND MONITORING FOCUSING ON SANPARKS RESEARCH OBJECTIVES:

All programming will entail scientific and educational activities in the field that will result in data collection and ultimately contribute to much-needed research for the park. Our systematic approach to teaching relevant science skills emerges through registering our research with SANParks Scientific Services and pursing peer-reviewed publication of research findings when possible.

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Education

Our programs have the same overarching goal: To train inspired, skilled, graduates and industry ready leaders with a sustainability ethos.

HUMAN CAPITAL IN THE BIODIVERSITY SECTOR:

Through low number/high impact courses for individuals at all levels ranging from high school and university learners to those already in the workforce. Overarching concepts for all course participants are understanding why a sustainability ethos is critical in the 21st century and our human connection to and reliance on functioning ecosystems. Most courses will focus on the cognitive, inter- and intra-personal skills necessary to succeed in the workplace within the Environmental Sector. We implement a unique holistic approach to education and leadership.

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Community

The facility provides a hub for community outreach, knowledge and skills transfer and research collaboration.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH:

Inspirational leadership opportunities for individuals from communities surrounding the KNP and previously disadvantaged individuals. Cultural and intellectual exchange is key. Visiting researchers benefit from local knowledge while conducting research and locals learn new skills from interacting with international groups. These interactions occur at our green facility which enhances science education and experiential learning opportunities, by demonstrating the feasibility of low impact living and forcing residents to think about their individual impact on the environment.

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SCIENCE LEADERSHIP CAMPS

5-14 day camps focusing on science skills, careers in science, leadership and life skills.

TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAMS

Multi-day teacher led teacher training workshops focusing on how to incorporate experiential learning activities into the science and maths school curricula.

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SCHOOL

UNIVERSITY FIELD PROGRAMS

We co-design and co-host field courses for university students from South African Universities. These programs can range from 2 days to 3 weeks in duration and are accredited through the South African Institutions we collaborate with (e.g. University of Mpumalanga, University of the Western Cape etc.)

INTERNATIONAL STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS:

  • OTS Undergraduate Ecology Semester (Jan-May; Aug-Dec)
  • OTS Global Health Program
  • Nsasani Coordinated Visiting Academic Groups

SANPARKS JUNIOR SCIENTIST PROGRAM

SANParks funded program for South African students pursuing graduate degrees to obtain industry support and experience simultaneously. Junior Scientists participate in OTS programs and receive support and mentorship from OTS and Nsasani staff

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Intensive, research and topic specific programs for honours, Masters and PhD students

INTERNSHIPS

Six week to Six-month Research Experiences for Local and International Undergraduate Students and recent graduates

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UNIVERSITY

SCIENCE KNOWLEDGE SHARING WORKSHOPS

Week long, topic specific scientific workshops for invited graduate students and senior scientists. The purpose of these workshops is to provide a collaborative space for sharing knowledge and identifying key research needs on the topic and work on collaborative manuscripts.

BIODIVERSITY LEADERSHIP COURSES FOR PROFESSIONALS

Short courses for high level executives and corporate professionals on the importance of incorporating sustainability ethos into leadership and business strategies.

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INDUSTRY