Themba Mabilane, chief financial officer at South African National Parks (SANParks), handed over R1 million to the University of Pretoria (UP) for students who are furthering their studies in social science related professions considered important for the operations and mission of SANParks.
The bursary scheme is in partnership with the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund and focuses mainly on students in the Social Sciences and Heritage Conservation fields as part of the SANParks Social Science Student Support Programme, a multi-year programme that supports tertiary learning and research.
The programme started in 2011. In this academic year, 24 students are beneficiaries. SANParks will support the full period of study within the specified fields relevant to SANParks.
According to general manager: PR, media liaison and stakeholder relations, Reynold Thakhuli, "this programme will go a long way in benefitting scientific research within SANParks and the entire environment and conservation fraternity as a number of professions that relate to fields of study offered by UP fit in with SANParks operations, including conservation management and research".
"The Social Science Student Support Programme strives to identify, educate and equip students who have the potential to excel and make a significant impact in the Social Sciences, Heritage Conservation and related fields.
