Our History

The Story of Nsasani and SSLI

The story of Nsasani Trust and the Skukuza Science Leadership Initiative begins with a shared vision — to create an inclusive, field-based science education programme that empowers South Africans to lead in conservation.

Our Story

Key Milestones

2003 - 2013
Foundations of Collaboration

The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) and SANParks worked together to deliver study-abroad programmes in African Ecology and Conservation. These early successes inspired the idea of a permanent education facility in Kruger National Park.

2010
The Proposal

OTS proposed establishing a science leadership initiative within Kruger. The plan envisioned a partnership with SANParks Scientific Services and a new South African non-profit — the Nsasani Trust — to build science leadership capacity.

2011 - 2013
Planning and Partnerships

The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) and SANParks worked together to deliver study-abroad programmes in African Ecology and Conservation. These early successes inspired the idea of a permanent education facility in Kruger National Park.

2014 - 2017
Building the Campus

Construction of the SSLI Field Station began, featuring sustainable, off-grid design. The Science Centre officially opened in September 2017, establishing a world-class hub for conservation training and research.

2018 - 2022
Growth and Recognition

Over 190 programmes and 2,200 participants later, SSLI earned international recognition. In 2021, the campus received the OBFS Human Diversity Award and a commendation from the AfriSam SAIA Awards for its Women-in-Science programmes.

2023 - 2033
The Next Chapter

Nsasani and its partners aim to expand research capacity, develop accredited courses, and increase access for South African students. Our goal: a financially sustainable, globally recognised African model for conservation education.

Join Our Story

Every donation and partnership fuels our ability to teach, train, and inspire.

Support Us

Help us make a difference!

Your support helps us empower the next generation of environmental scientists and conservationists. The Nsasani Trust is a registered Public Benefit Organisation, which means every donation goes directly toward scholarships, field equipment, and programme delivery.

Covers meals and field materials for one student.
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Sponsors a place on a short science leadership course.
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Funds a full scholarship for a local university student.
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Every contribution counts.