For many young people in rural communities, deciding what to do after school can be challenging. Career opportunities are not always visible, and learners may not be aware of the many pathways available to them. The WCRO, with support from the Friends of the Biosphere Programme, will host conservation careers talk for matric learners from Zwartberg High School in Prince Albert.
The session will be presented by Willem Matthee, a Nature Conservation lecturer at Saasveld, Nelson Mandela University. He will introduce learners to the various study and career opportunities available within environmental and conservation fields.
Approximately 35 matric learners are expected to attend the event, which is planned to take place in October at the Wolwekraal Research and Education Centre. The talk forms part of WCRO’s ongoing conservation lecture series.
Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge in many rural areas. By exposing learners to career paths linked to the natural environment, this initiative seeks to provide valuable guidance as they prepare for life after school.
Through this initiative, WCRO hopes to inspire learners to explore careers that not only offer personal and professional growth but also contribute to environmental conservation. The aim is to help build a future where young people can play an active role in caring for the landscapes and biodiversity that make the area so special.
Friends of the Biosphere supports community-driven initiatives that create opportunities for learning, conservation, and environmental stewardship. By supporting projects such as this, we can help inspire the next generation of conservation leaders and strengthen the connection between people and nature.
Organiser: Wolwekraal Conservation and Research Organisation (WCRO)
Project Category: Environmental Education
Project Period: July – October 2026
Municipality: Prince Albert
Small Grant Awarded: R1,000