In 2011 the IAPF began scoping the future requirements of ranger training in Southern Africa. Recognizing that an updated career path was needed, a new model was proposed to the industry. FOr four years the IAPF worked with industry in South Africa to develop the career path for rangers, which deals with the requirements of going up against a modern and increasingly determined poacher.
In 2015 two new qualifications were finalized after series of 14 workshops with the Community of Expert Practitioners, being industry leaders in the field of anti-poaching. These qualifications allow for accredited training of rangers both locally and internationally and will eventually be complimented by standardized training modules which local trainers can use to tailor courses suited to their requirements.
The Anti-Poaching Ranger and Anti-Poaching Manager Qualifications will be hosted under the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and were formed alongside the Development Quality Partner CATHSSETA (The Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority).
What has changed?
- The previous qualification, ‘Conservation Guardianship’, had only 8 credits on a NQF Level 2
- New qualification park ranger:
- Field ranger
- NQF Level 4 with 143 credits
- Tracker
- NQF Level 4 with 80 credits
- Anti-poaching ranger
- NQF Level 5 with 166 credits
- Ranger (area integrity)
- NQF Level 6 with 140 credits
Successful inputs and participation came from SANParks Kruger National Park, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Free State Environmental Affairs, Game Rangers’ Association of Africa (GRAA), Professional Firearm Training Council (PFTC), Wildlife Ranching South Africa (WRSA), Private Rhino Owners Association (PROA), Southern Africa Wildlife College (SAWC), Ntomeni Ranger Services, Game Reserves United (GRU), Secret Eye, Reserve Protection Agency, International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF), EcoRanger Conservation Services and CATHSSETA.