Sabi Sabi hosts disadvantaged conservation students

SABI Sabi Private Game Reserve in the Sabi Sands Wildtuin recently again hosted previously disadvantaged conservation students as part of the Endangered Wildlife Trust's (EWT) annual workshop in preparation of the FGASA (Field Guides Association of South Africa) exams. Says Andre van Zyl, manager of the EWT's Conservation Leadership Group: "We are greatly indebted to Sabi Sabi for once again making their facilities and resources available to the training of young conservationists free of charge. This greatly assists the EWT to cut costs which is always a consideration in the life of an NGO." FGASA accreditation has become an essential qualification for careers in the field guides profession. As from next year, heavy fines will be imposed on both individuals and employers who operate without the necessary FGASA qualification. Sabi Sabi's training manager, Ed Farrell and Van Zyl presented the course. The workshop was comprehensive and combined lectures on botany, zoology, ecology and ecological processes, interactions and cycles. Practical work covering aspects of a ranger's day-to-day activities, such as tracking and guiding, 4x4 driving skills and vehicle maintenance as well as conflict resolution was undertaken. At the end of the five-day training workshop, the students wrote two mock examinations. (Miguel de Sousa)