According to EcoTraining, World Wildlife Conservation Day was established to raise awareness and engage conversations about species that are endangered or under threat of extinction because of poaching, trafficking and other environmental factors.

EcoTraining adds that it has long been recognised for its credibility and standard of excellence in nature-guiding, training and making significant contributions to the safari industry.

The organisation offers a range of:

• accredited field guide career courses
• gap year and sabbatical programmes
• short wildlife courses, and
• on-site professional guide training at safari lodges.

According to EcoTraining, what sets it apart is its commitment to conservation, which goes beyond training individuals to be expert guides. All courses offered by EcoTraining are run directly from unfenced bush camps located in areas across:

• South Africa
• Botswana, and
• Kenya.

This approach not only provides participants with an authentic learning experience but also fosters a deep connection to nature and a profound understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation, says EcoTraining. 

EcoTraining’s conservation initiatives include:

• habitat restoration
• wildlife monitoring
• community engagement programmes, raising awareness about the challenges facing wildlife and ecosystems, and
• emphasising the need for sustainable practices and responsible tourism.

By actively involving local communities in their efforts, EcoTraining says it ensures that conservation becomes a shared responsibility and a source of pride for all stakeholders.

“We believe that educating and training individuals is not just about creating guides for the industry but fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment and its inhabitants. World Wildlife Conservation Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect our earth’s biodiversity, and we are committed to playing our part,” says EcoTraining managing director Anton Lategan. 

EcoTraining has encouraged the public to join the movement for wildlife conservation.

“By choosing sustainable practices and supporting organisations dedicated to environmental conservation, individuals can contribute to the preservation of precious ecosystems,” says the organisation.