Service Learning Groups: Experience the African Wild, Conservation in Limpopo, South Africa
Join our service learning course in Limpopo, South Africa and gain insight into both wildlife research techniques and conservation activities. Live at a remote research base within the game reserve turning the natural environment into a rich landscape of educational opportunity and gain insight into both wildlife research techniques and conservation activities.
The Project:
The exact project will be based on the requirements of our local partners at the time. The group can expect to be involved in a variety of environmental awareness activities, discussions and lectures. This may include learning about animal identification and behavior, as well as how to track animals and navigate in the bush, key survival techniques and basic astronomy. Most importantly, students will learn about how the ecosystems in Limpopo work and will discuss subjects like geology, local history, soils, plant life and the climate.
GVI’s nearby research base is involved in the collection of data on large predators such as lions, leopards and cheetah. The information gathered is used to give an accurate picture of the predators’ impact on prey populations, determining social structure, genetics, and spatial movement. This vital information helps maintain a healthy balance of these natural resources and ultimately conserve some of Africa’s important ecosystems. Students will be exposed to various methods of data collection and monitoring during their time in the Limpopo.
Educational Focus:
Through lectures, discussion, research, service, and reflection, beginning two weeks prior to their departure and continuing two weeks after their return home, students in this course engage in meaningful, context-driven service-learning at home and abroad. Emphasis will be placed on relating long term project goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and engaging in daily reflection surrounding the experience, which will be lead by qualified group facilitators, furthering individual educational development. This course curriculum will be tailored to your students academic level and curriculum, as well as your faculty requirements.
Location:
The Limpopo Province in South Africa is home to unique wildlife, landscapes, and a spectacular variety of animals making it the perfect place for a service learning trip. Our experience is located about 6 hours north of Johannesburg near the tiny town of Hoedspruit and very close to the world-famous Kruger National Park, home to South Africa’s Big 5 wildlife.
Your Group Can Expect the Following Highlights on This Program:
- Hands-on involvement with vital conservation efforts in the area.
- Connect classroom knowledge with real world experiences.
- Gain an understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
- Acquire hard and soft skills useful for both career development and personal growth.
- Explore South Africa and gain a better understanding of local culture.
If applying for this program to obtain credit from an institution, GVI can supply learning outcomes and support in the application.
Risk assessment available upon request, please contact GVI for more details.