A Student lends a hand with a baby rhinoceros at the HESC

The HESC offers people between the ages of 18 and 35 the opportunity to experience first hand the work of the Centre, during an intensive, 21-day programme.

The focus of the programme is on the cheetah, and during the course participants are involved with the everyday care of the cheetahs. This includes, cleaning, feeding, and where required, assisting with or observing any veterinary activities that may occur during their stay. The same activities apply to other species being cared for at the centre. The knowledge gained about the animals and work of the HESC through this kind of participation is both specific and personal.

The Conservation section of the programme involves daily lectures on all major aspects of conservation and includes specialist input on all animals, grasses, trees and basic biodiversity.

The Sight Seeing section of the programme is where participants get to put theory into practice either through directed observation in the wild or at other centres that specialise in other areas of research or conservation.

The programme is largely based on the interactive involvement of participants, who in the process gain valuable knowledge of and experience in nature conservation.

Students will also have the opportunity to visit numerous places of interest and attractions in the area, including the renowned Kruger National Park. Included in the programme is the unique and memorable experience of an elephant-back safari with the resident herd of Camp Jabulani (www.campjabulani.com) – the herd’s namesake also arrived at the Centre at the age of four months in a terrible state of dehydration and shock (he had been abandoned by his herd after getting stuck in a silt dam). It took a year to nurse him back to health under 24 hour dedicated care.

Duration of programme:

3 weeks – A basic conservation course, consisting of a theoretical component, followed by active participation in practical exercises.

1 week programmes are available on request. Please contact the coordinators for more information.

Aim of the programme:

To equip students with the aptitude to actively participate in conserving the wildlife of Southern Africa; to build awareness of conservation in a broader global scale; and to experience the beauty and rich diversity of South Africa.

Programme Facilitators:

All have a contagious passion for conservation, and are dedicated to sharing their knowledge and expertise about the African Bush ”Veld” and its inhabitants.

Participants will be work side by side with full time personnel of the Centre (assisting with feeding and animal care).

Participant Requirements:

• Must be eager to learn and to participate.

• Must be prepared to have some fun.

• Must have a desire to make a difference while gaining invaluable experience and knowledge.

Click here for programme dates, and costs.
Click here for accommodation options.
Click here for an image gallery

If you are a wildlife or conservation enthuisast, this programme will literally change the way you see your world.

We hope to share the experience with you!

From all of us at the HESC