Our Model
Bridging Knowledge and Practice
Our model is built on the “pipeline” approach — developing human capacity in conservation from high school through professional levels. We design programmes that grow with learners, supporting life-long and life-wide education.
Our Teaching Philosophy
The Standing Tree philosophy of teaching.
Inspired by the Umbrella tree, Vachellia tortilis, our “Under the Standing Tree” philosophy fosters co-learning and inclusive communication, where both teachers and learners participate actively in knowledge exchange. All of this happens in our outdoor classroom, the Kruger National Park!
Origin of the Standing Tree: It was a story told by a gentleman called Tata Yelelo from Cala Reserve, Eastern Cape. When asked to share his knowledge and to teach a course, he said:
"I cannot teach, but I can be a Standing Tree under whom students can sit beneath to share their learning."
Tata Yelelo
About SSLI
The Skukuza Science Leadership Initiative (SSLI)
The Skukuza Science Leadership Initiative (SSLI) is a partnership between the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS), the Nsasani Trust, and South African National Parks.
This initiative is aimed at bridging the gap between disadvantaged communities, tertiary education, and the biodiversity sector.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Partners
Nsasani Partners With Universities
Want to know more?
Frequently Asked Questions
Our programmes are open to students, early-career professionals, educators, and researchers. We offer multi-level programming suitable for high school learners, university students, and biodiversity practitioners.
You can help by donating to fund student scholarships, sponsoring research, or contributing to campus sustainability projects. Every contribution helps shape the future of science leadership.
The SSLI Field Station is in Skukuza, the scientific and administrative heart of the Kruger National Park.