STUDENTS studying nature conservation at the Nelson Mandela University are set to benefit from the proceeds of the Schalk Willem Theron Trust.
The Trust has entered into a partnership with the South African National Parks (SANParks) and Nelson Mandela University to ensure that the legacy of the deceased, a fervent conservationist, is upheld.
Representative of the Trust, Mechiel Jacobus Boshoff stated that the bursary will commence in 2020 for students in their second year of study in nature conservation prioritizing those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“An initial amount of R2 million will be invested towards Nelson Mandela University to fund bursaries for 5 promising students,” said Boshoff.
Fundisile Mketeni, SANParks Chief Executive Officer (CEO), said, “The heart of the organisation is to see young people actively involved in the conservation of nature. This includes training and career advancement in the sector.
“We are honoured by the Trust’s inclusion of SANParks”.
In addition SANParks will be facilitating the placement of selected bursary holders for in-service training for completion of the practical year of the qualification at SANParks facilities and others.
Dr Denver Webb of the University’s Strategic Resource Mobilisation Office welcomed the partnership and thanked both the Schalk Willem Theron Trust and SANParks for partnering with the University in this manner.
“The focus on nature conservation bursaries is also to be welcomed as traditionally this has not attracted external funding to the same extent as some other courses,” said Dr Webb.
