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The South African Shark Conservancy (SASC) was formed in 2007 and became globally recognized for its shark and ocean ecosystem work.
Together with Shark Academy, the South African Shark Conservancy offers a range of skills development opportunities, as well as internships that are focused on marine conservation and shark science.
1. To develop baseline biological and ecological data on commercially exploited and endemic chondrichthyans
2. To support the management of chondrichthyans through the provision of long-term species-specific datasets
3. To quantify and monitor trends in abundance, distribution and community composition of chondrichthyans as a function of spatially explicit management and coastal change
4. To develop livelihood diversification opportunities for marginalised fishermen and historic fishing communities
The Shark Lab is home to the SASC skills development and training division, the Shark Academy. It houses experimental tanks, a student office, an education centre, and an administrative office.
The South African Shark Conservancy works to promote a better understanding of sharks by dispelling myths about sharks, cultivating a sense of stewardship for the oceans and growing conservation-conscious communities around the world by way of:
• Shark Science and Education Programs
• Engaging with Local Communities, Students and Education Groups
• Social Media
Our Education & Outreach initiatives are science-based, ensuring we provide our visitors and education groups with unparalleled insight into the secret world of sharks. We pride ourselves on experiential, hands-on educational programming and offer multiple day programs for school groups and team building.
The Shark Academy
The Shark Academy is an academic field school experience that specialises in connecting undergraduate students, early-career scientists, conservationists and senior scientists. The focus is on skills development, academic mentoring, fieldwork, science communication and professional portfolio development all with a focus on Africa’s diverse shark species.
Contact SASC for more information about the various programs and to find out how you can get involved.
Research at the South African Shark Conservancy is done with the goal of changing public perceptions about sharks through various education projects so as to understand the role of sharks in marine ecosystems for conservation and stewardship purposes.
Topics include:
“Passionate and very knowledgeable conservationists. A great experience for budding scientists.” Dagmar Mccord
“I completed a two-month internship here and had an amazing experience. Sharks, sharks and more sharks! I highly recommend any early-career scientists and shark enthusiasts to volunteer or pursue an internship.” Tristen Stene
“Well worth the visit. A presentation was given before the visit to the lab where we were introduced to lesser-known sharks.” Sue Purchase
“I spent five weeks with the South African Shark Conservancy as an intern and had an amazing experience. I learnt so much during my time, which as a marine conservation student is incredibly valuable for my future. I would highly recommend this to any other marine science students or anyone with a passion for sharks!” Brendon Queiroz
“Get taken on a tour by the Shark Conservancy’s passionate staff, where you get to meet and learn more about some of South Africa’s smaller and lesser-known sharks as well as other marine conservation issues. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Hermanus!” Dave van Beuningen
