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