Sarisha Jaga

Conservationist specializing in climate-biodiversity dynamics and protected areas management. Current research on climate resilience within Transfrontier Conservation Areas, integrating biodiversity protection with cultural heritage preservation. Develops evidence-based strategies for sustainable ecosystem management while leveraging academic experience to translate complex environmental challenges into actionable conservation measures.

Experienced academic professional with 8+ years as a lecturer at the University of South Africa (UNISA), a leading Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) institution, specializing in nature conservation education within the Diploma of Nature Conservation program. Proficient in both online and face-to-face teaching modalities, demonstrating exceptional ability to bridge theoretical concepts with practical application across diverse learning environments.

Particularly excels in hands-on teaching that brings conservation theory to life for students, adapting practical modules for both digital and in-person delivery. Core expertise spans conservation resource management and conservation ecology, with comprehensive knowledge in both plant and animal studies. Proven track record in developing and delivering engaging educational content that enhances student understanding of complex ecological principles through innovative ODeL methodologies.

Skilled in ecological management planning, integrating multidisciplinary conservation approaches to create holistic learning experiences. Strong background in translating academic knowledge into real-world conservation applications, fostering the next generation of conservation professionals through versatile teaching approaches that emphasize practical field experience alongside theoretical foundations across multiple learning platforms.

PhD in Environmental Management (In Progress)
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Research Focus: Transboundary conservation in the context of climate change, exploring anthropological perspectives on nature-culture relationships and climate change impacts. This interdisciplinary research bridges environmental science with social anthropology to understand complex conservation challenges across political boundaries.

Master of Science in Nature Conservation (2019)
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Dissertation: "The effectiveness of national and provincial conservation plans as a tool in protecting threatened species in South Africa"
Research examined the relationship between various biodiversity planning tools and their effectiveness in conserving threatened species and natural resources. Developed comprehensive understanding of integrated approaches necessary for natural resource sustainability, emphasizing the critical role of multi-stakeholder collaboration in conservation planning and implementation.

Technical Expertise Acquired: Through rigorous research methodologies, developed exceptional proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistical climate change modeling techniques. Specialized skills include spatial analysis for conservation planning, predictive modeling for species distribution under climate scenarios, and advanced statistical analysis of environmental data sets.

Research Competencies:

• Interdisciplinary research combining environmental science and anthropological approaches
• Conservation policy analysis and evaluation
• Stakeholder engagement in conservation planning
• Climate change impact assessment and modeling
• Biodiversity conservation planning and implementation strategies