Wildlife Tourism College of Maasai Mara
The Wildlife Tourism College of Maasai Mara (WTC), supported by key backers including Nawiri Group, stands as an educational initiative addressing pressing challenges in Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem. Established in the Pardamat Conservation Area, the college seeks to tackle high youth unemployment, poor land use practices, and the environmental pressures of rapid population growth. By integrating vocational training, research opportunities, and international educational tourism, WTC offers a comprehensive model that blends local needs with global conservation objectives. The college celebrated its official launch this month in a ceremony attended by over 1,000 stakeholders.
The launch event brought together representatives from conservation organisations, government bodies, and local communities, underscoring the collaborative vision behind the college. Leaders from the Mara Elephant Project, Narok County Government, and Maasai Mara University joined students, donors, and local residents to mark the occasion.
Building on the foundation laid by the Koiyaki Guiding School, the college offers accredited programs in wildlife management, tourism operations, and catering, tailored to equip Maasai youth with marketable skills. A critical component is its Edu-Tourism Camp, which hosts international students and volunteers, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and generating income to sustain operations. The college also serves as a hub for environmental research, providing a platform for projects aimed at addressing climate change and biodiversity challenges within the region.
WTC’s establishment has been marked by significant milestones. Construction began in 2021 and since its operational start in March 2023, the college has enrolled two cohorts of students and received its government accreditation for academic programs. Its campus, powered by renewable energy, integrates classrooms, accommodations, and research facilities. The local economy has also benefited, with community suppliers providing food and services, reflecting the institution’s commitment to sustainable development.
Nawiri Group, a key financial supporter, played an important role in realising this vision alongside Basecamp Explorer Foundation and other partners. The collaboration has been widely recognised as a model for integrating conservation, education, and the creation of opportunities for local people. With its focus on creating employment and fostering environmental stewardship, the college represents a new approach to tackling intertwined ecological and social challenges.
For more information, visit Wildlife Tourism College or explore the project’s background at the Basecamp Explorer Foundation.