Purpose of course
The course will impart knowledge on the uses of wildlife and why they should sustainably
be utilised. The use of wildlife in tourism, job creation and money generation will be
emphasised. Community conservation, wildlife management, wildlife welfare and wildlife
conservation in the global context will be addressed.
Wildlife and its habitats have long been threatened by both natural and human impacts. Recent times have witnessed accelerated pressures on the natural wildlife habitats, plant and animal species within, especially in developing world. Thus the growing need for trained professionals skilled in wildlife management and conservation in addition to the overall environmental management. Wildlife conservation and management confront a multitude of complex and interrelated challenges, threatening the existence of countless species and the ecological balance of our planet. However, it is heartening to recognize that effective strategies and concerted efforts can make a substantial difference in this critical endeavor. By prioritizing habitat conservation and restoration, we can provide sanctuaries for wildlife to flourish and thrive. Climate change mitigation measures ensure that species have the flexibility to adapt to changing environmental conditions, securing their survival in a rapidly transforming world. Stringent law enforcement and public awareness campaigns are essential (Swapnil Gupta, 2023).
The overall goal of this course unit is to develop human resource capacity in wildlife management and conservation in Africa Region. The course unit follows a system based approach where all key components such as physical chemical, biological, social, economic, administrative, and legislative, are discussed in an integrated way. Both the theory and practice are intended to impart skills in the learner as a potential wildlife Conservation Manager. The unit examines management strategies that can be adopted to protect endangered and vulnerable animals and to control feral animals and pests. Students also examine the commercial exploitation of native animal populations and broad scale management actions that may affect many animal species, such as predator control and fire. Students will participate in discussions on case studies of relevant topics and in a field trip done in selected protected areas in Uganda. This course will assist people who want to either make career or enhance knowledge in the field of wildlife conservation and management.
The material is suitable for use by students who enroll on fulltime traditional face to face approach but can also be used by those under the blended block model of delivery. Thus the programme will be offered on blended e-learning with face-to-face formal lectures, field practical demonstrations, assignments, and class discussions.