South African National Parks Volunteer Program

  South Africa

Hoedspruit

Dates: Visit our website for upcoming start dates.

Description: Volunteer on this South African program and be instrumental in the development of South Africa's National Parks (SANParks), while gaining high-profile work experience with GVI's one-year internship program. You will be placed with the People and Conservation (P & C) department at one of the several parks, where you will work alongside social ecologists. You will focus on the development of environmental education and community development projects to help integrate the local communities into the conservation efforts.

You will spend two-weeks at a training course in Kruger National Park where you will learn first aid and ranger training amongst other things. No specific experience is necessary, however, each park has its individual requirements and GVI will place interns where their skills are best suited. This program is ideal for anyone seriously considering a career in conservation.

* How this program makes a difference:

GVI places volunteers in the People and Conservation department, which is a new department within SANParks. It has a revolutionary approach to conservation which considers ecology, cultural and socio- economic issues related to the management of the national parks. The process is interdisciplinary, participative, community-orientated and educational. It seeks to facilitate partnerships that are beneficial to both the national parks and the local communities.

Highlights:
* Live in the most spectacular locations in South Africa
* Learn about conservation in National Parks
* Two week training in Kruger National Park
* Five day tour of parks
* Working with local communities
* Amazing wildlife encounters
* Camping, hiking, bush walks and canoeing

Qualifications: No special training or qualifications are required as you will receive training in the field.

Cost in US$: 3,990 for 6 months

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to World Wide Participants.

Participants Travel to South Africa Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: 2008 marks a decade of commitment from GVI to all volunteers and partners. Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998