VI
STRENGTHEN VIETNAM’S CONSERVATION WORKFORCE
Despite being one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Vietnam still lacks formal education pathways in conservation. Ranked 14th globally in biodiversity richness, the country is home to some of the most endangered species on Earth. Yet, for years, there was no official degree program in biodiversity conservation, leaving young professionals without the proper academic foundation to tackle the urgent environmental challenges Vietnam faces.
This gap in education meant that those passionate about conservation had limited opportunities to pursue professional training, forcing them to seek education abroad or rely on short-term, non-certified training programs.
At WildAct, we recognised this critical gap and made nurturing and inclusive education a cornerstone of our mission.
BRIDGING THE GAP FOR VIETNAM’S
FUTURE CONSERVATION LEADERS
For over five years, WildAct has pioneered innovative short-term conservation training programs, testing different educational models to equip young conservationists with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead wildlife protection efforts.
Developed specialised Short-Term Training Courses for graduated students and working professionals who wish to make a change in their career. Understanding the need for diverse backgrounds and experience in conservation, our course provides basic but necessary conservation training for people from all different expertises, elevating them to recognise their strengths and applying their expertise.
Expanding the professional network for participants, by inviting guests-speakers from different organisations, agencies and institutions to provide inspiring speeches. This aims to help participants to connect, grow their own understanding on different fields in conservation and increase their chance of employment.
Provide one-to-one career advice, including CV and cover letter support and mock-interviews to increase participants chances of job securing.
A PLATFORM TO THRIVE
One of the biggest challenges for students and early-career conservationists in Vietnam is the lack of platforms to network, exchange ideas, and gain exposure to the conservation sector. Unlike in other countries, where young professionals have access to multiple career fairs, research symposiums, and early-career professional networks, Vietnam’s conservation field remains fragmented, with limited opportunities for students to connect with experts or organisations.
Many young conservationists struggle to find information about which organisations operate in Vietnam, what their areas of expertise are, and how they can contribute. This gap creates barriers to collaboration, career growth, and innovation in conservation.
Recognising this, WildAct launched the Student Conference on Nature Conservation (SCNC) – Vietnam’s first student-led conservation conference, designed to:
Provide a dedicated platform for students to present research, share ideas, and discuss conservation issues.
Connect young conservationists with leading organisations, professionals, and potential mentors in the field.
Increase awareness of career opportunities and the different expertise of conservation organisations in Vietnam.
Foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, empowering the next generation of conservation leaders.
Through SCNC, we are bridging the gap between students and the professional conservation community, ensuring that young voices are heard and that future conservationists have the support they need to succeed.
A HISTORIC MILESTONE: VIETNAM’S FIRST MASTER’S IN BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION
Our dedication and perseverance have paid off: Vietnam’s first-ever Master’s degree in Biodiversity Conservation will be open for registration in Autumn 2025, in collaboration with Vietnam National University – Hanoi. This program is a game-changer, finally providing an official, accredited academic path for students pursuing careers in conservation within Vietnam.
This is super exciting because:
- Previously, conservation students had no choice but to study abroad if they wanted formal education in this field.
- With a homegrown Master’s program, Vietnam can train its own conservation leaders, in our own language, about our own nature resources!
- The master course will ensure a higher quality of local and national workforce for biodiversity conservation in Vietnam.
Through this long-term investment in education, we are building a generation of skilled, passionate conservationists who will safeguard Vietnam’s biodiversity for the future.
EDUCATING AND INSPIRING LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Access to environmental education remains limited for many children and communities in Vietnam, especially in rural areas where nature conservation is often overlooked in formal curricula. Without proper knowledge and awareness, many people remain disconnected from the importance of biodiversity, leading to practices that threaten Vietnam’s rich ecosystems.
WildAct has developed a range of education and awareness-raising programs tailored for local students, teachers, and community members, ensuring that conservation knowledge is accessible, engaging, and practical.
Wild Libraries Initiative
Providing schools with books and educational materials on biodiversity and conservation, ensuring that children have access to learning resources that nurture a love for nature.
Outdoor Learning Trips
Organising field trips for students to wetlands, forests, and protected areas, giving them firsthand experience of wildlife and ecosystems.
Teacher Training & Educational Materials
Equipping teachers with conservation-focused lesson plans and activities, helping them integrate biodiversity education into their classrooms.
Community Workshops & Awareness Campaigns
Engaging local people in conservation discussions, raising awareness about illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, and sustainable practices.
By bringing conservation education into classrooms and communities, WildAct is empowering local people – especially young generations – to become active stewards of their environment.
A FUTURE OF INCLUSIVE & ACCESSIBLE
CONSERVATION EDUCATION
Education should be a right, not a privilege – yet, in conservation, many people are still left behind. WildAct continues to push for greater inclusion in conservation training, ensuring that:
More women have
access to professional development opportunities.
Ethnic minority students receive targeted support to pursue careers in conservation.
Educational programs are available in Vietnam, eliminating the need for costly study abroad programs.
Hands-on learning is prioritized over theory, ensuring that students graduate job-ready.
Through our commitment to nurturing and inclusive education, we are not just teaching conservation – we are creating Vietnam’s future conservation leaders.
OUR IMPACTS
33%
Participants received a full-time jobs in conservation sector
21%
Participants received a promotion/higher salary after graduated from the course
87%
Participants stated the education activities have significantly increased their understanding of nature and conservation issues
15000
USD awarded as scholarships and mini-research funds to support Vietnamese youth in their conservation education.
