NQF LEVEL

This programme has been approved by the Council on Higher Education and is currently pending registration with SAQA and the Department : Higher Education and Training. Until registration has been finalized, we will be offering this course as a short course based program.
 

NQF Level 5

The skills and competencies associated with the programme builds on and supports nature conservation knowledge so as to enable the application of conservation skills in an entry level supervisory and leadership capacity in nature conservation environments.

To enable the successful implementation of conservation operations it is required of individuals operating on this level to have the ability to provide the necessary leadership to field staff. Such individuals will operate as the link between management and operational field staff, playing an important role in the effective control of operational activities This will support the management of nature conservation organisations through the implementation of strategies and conservation plans.

In particular, the programme aims to:

1. Develop junior or entry level conservation management skills and knowledge required for conservation application
2. Empower students to acquire the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values required to operate confidently and ethically in entry-level nature conservation supervisory and leadership positions.
3. Provide leadership in the implementation of conservation plans and ensure that conservation practices are effectively implemented at operational level.
4. Respond to the challenges specific to the implementation of nature conservation strategies and objectives
5. Deal with developmental approaches relating to issues affecting community conservation in the context of shared natural resources
6. Apply law enforcement requirements specific to the protection of natural resources
7. Handle administrative duties and requirements relevant to the conservation environment effectively

The skills and competencies gained in the qualification enable entry into junior leadership and supervisory positions within the operational context in a conservation environment as it applies to:

• Field Ranger
• Game Scout
• Wildlife Police Officer
• Senior Field Ranger
• Sergeant
• Park Ranger

Students qualifying against the learning programme will be able to:

• Perform conservation administration functions
• Execute operational activities required for the implementation of conservation plans
• Manage personal resources at operational level
• Enforce conservation compliance in own operational area

The Learning Programme is aimed and individuals already involved in operational positions within the nature conservation environment; which have been identified and earmarked for personal development and career advancement into entry-level / junior managerial or supervisory positions in Nature Conservation organisations within the SADC region.

Individuals earmarked for personal growth and job advancement opportunities relevant to this qualification,
already have acquired technical expertise in the broad focus areas associated with Nature Conservation
principles and activities.

It is envisaged that individuals interested in the qualification will mainly fit into the following demographic profile:

• Open age group
• Male or female
• Employed in a nature conservation environment
• Technical know –how of conservation issues
•  Ability to work with a diverse range of cultures
•  Ability to work outdoors sometimes in less than optimal weather conditions
• Good ability to build rapport and operate as part of a team
• Good communication skills

It is assumed that students accessing this qualification are competent in:

• Communication at NQF Level 4
• Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 4
• Recognised conservation qualifications on NQF level 4 or equivalent