Vision
Empowering students through hands-on wildlife conservation in South Africa.
We are a group of Dalhousie students in the Faculty of Agriculture’s Bioveterinary Science and Science programs excited to travel to Amakhala Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape for a three-week immersive field course in wildlife ecology (May-June 2026). We’ll gain hands-on experience in conservation, animal behaviour, and ecological research, learning directly from wildlife professionals in a real-world research environment.
Story
Many of us are pursuing careers in wildlife ecology, conservation, animal science, and veterinary medicine because we are committed to protecting global biodiversity and advancing animal health. This field course offers a unique opportunity to apply our classroom learning to real-world ecosystems, working alongside professionals from Rhodes University’s Wildlife and Reserve Management Research Group.
Over three weeks, we will develop critical hands-on skills such as camera trapping, vegetation sampling, and wildlife procedures guided by expert veterinarians which just cannot be taught in a traditional classroom. These skills will strengthen our academic growth and enhance our ability to contribute meaningfully to conservation and animal health throughout our careers.
However, the cost of this international experience is a significant barrier for many students. Your support will help make this educational dream a reality.
Strategy
We are launching a projectDal fundraising campaign to help make this life-changing field course accessible to students through your support. Donations from family, friends, alumni, and community supporters will directly offset travel and program costs, while student-led initiatives such as bingo nights and fundraisers will further advance our goal. We will also connect with organizations that share a commitment to wildlife conservation and apply to Dalhousie’s Study/Work International Fund (SWIF). Together, your support will help remove financial barriers and empower passionate students to participate in this amazing learning experience.
Impact
All funds raised will be directed toward the costs of participation in the Wildlife Ecology in South Africa field course. This includes:
– Airfare to/from South Africa
– Accommodations and meals at the Amakhala Game Reserve
– Local transportation and park access
– Travel and health insurance
– Field lectures and hands on activities and labs
(These items are included in the estimated cost of $7,500–$8,000 per student.)
By contributing, donors help reduce financial barriers so that all students can participate in this impactful international learning experience. This course not only strengthens our understanding of ecology and animal behaviour but also equips us with skills that will be used in our future wildlife, research, and veterinary careers.
Learn more about our course | Follow us on Instagram @dalacinternational | Contact student project lead Natalie Mitchell by email at nt750940@dal.ca or email projectdal@dal.ca with any questions.
Thank you for your support!
