Through the generosity of the Notsew Orm Sands Foundation, 18 scholars from southern Africa will receive fully funded studentships on Kent’s taught Masters’ course in Conservation Science. The first cohort has begun their studies and consists of six experienced conservation scientists and practitioners from Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The Burnett Scholarships scheme was launched in 2024 for applicants from the KAZA region of southern Africa, to study a masters’ degree within the University’s Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE). The grant of £1.5 million covers full scholarship for six students each year for three years. It also provides separate funding for 60 individuals to have Burnett ranger training at the Southern African Wildlife College over three years.
Burnett scholar Constance Banda said: ‘DICE’s Conservation Science course has been an incredibly enriching experience for me. It is a truly multidisciplinary program that blends natural sciences and social sciences to give a broad understanding of conservation. What makes it even more exciting is the real-life application of what we learn, whether through engaging group projects or thought-provoking discussions with classmates from various countries and professional backgrounds.’
Professor Bob Smith, Director of DICE, said: ‘This is a special opportunity for DICE to continue its capacity building for conservation, at both managerial and ranger levels, in a region which is facing major conservation and development challenges. We are very grateful for the Burnett scholarship and ranger training programmes, to create opportunities for these hard-working conservation professionals.’
Melissa Murdoch, Trustee of the Notsew Orms Sands Foundation, said: ‘The Burnett scholarships are critical for building both knowledge and confidence of the up-coming cadre of conservation leaders in southern Africa, and the Burnett ranger training seeks to build capacity for those men and women on the front lines of conservation action. The Notsew Orm Sands Foundation trustees are pleased to support these different levels of training.’
Hilary Edridge, Head of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations at Kent, said: ‘We are very grateful to the Notsew Orm Sands Foundation for their generous gift to support 18 scholars to study at Kent. This funding enables students who may not have otherwise been able to travel to the UK to diversify their conservation education and experience and take them to the next step in their careers.’
The new cohort of scholars had the opportunity to formally meet Notsew Orm Sands Foundation Trustee, Melissa Murdoch in November 2024 alongside Professor Bob Smith, DICE Director, and Professor Glyn Davies, Chair of the DICE Advisory Board.