Training the next generation of professional hunters, conservationists, and custodians of Namibia’s wild spaces.
Who We Are
The NAPHA School of Conservation was created to educate and empower Namibian hunting professionals—both current and aspiring—through practical, ethical, and inclusive training.
With a strong focus on integrating Previously Disadvantaged Namibians (PDNs), the school ensures that Namibia’s hunting future is diverse, skilled, and deeply rooted in conservation values.
Built on Legacy
Volker Grellmann
The school stands on the pioneering vision of Volker Grellmann, the father of professional hunting in Namibia.
His commitment to ethical hunting and field education lives on in every course offered, now led by passionate mentors at Okatjeru Hunting Farm.
Royston Wright
After Mr. Grellmann’s passing in 2019 and the closure of ERPHAN in 2021, NAPHA established its own hunting school at Okatjeru Hunting Farm. Under the guidance of highly respected instructors Mr. Royston Wright, Mr. Anton Esterhuizen, and Mr. Martin Britz, the school continued to grow from this strong foundation. In 2022, NAPHA further strengthened its training by compiling a comprehensive Hunting Guide Manual, now used as a core reference across all courses.
Although the school experienced the great loss of Mr. Wright in early 2024, its mission remains unwavering.
_JPG.jpg)
Today, Mr. Esterhuizen and Mr. Britz continue to lead the programme with excellence, offering high-quality, field-based training rooted in ethics, practical skill, and conservation knowledge.
Their experience, passion, and personal dedication ensure that every course remains of exceptional standard - equipping students with the real-world expertise needed to succeed as responsible hunting professionals in Namibia.
Our Vision
We believe that every aspiring professional—whether a hunter, guide, or camp team member—deserves the chance to learn, grow, and build a future in conservation-based hunting, no matter where they come from or how remote their home may be.
To make that vision a reality, the NAPHA School of Conservation is reaching beyond borders and barriers with bold, forward-thinking initiatives:
School of Conservation Camp
A dedicated facility where students can live, learn, and immerse themselves in the rhythm of the bush.
This dedicated facility will reduce training costs, expand access, and give future hunting professionals a homegrown place to grow.
For now, we rent facilities—but the dream is already being built.
School on Wheels
Some students live far from training centers—but they shouldn’t be far from opportunity.
Our mobile training initiative will deliver courses directly to rural conservancies and communities, opening doors for those who’ve never had access before.
Outreach Programmes
To inspire the next generation, we’re bringing conservation hunting into the classroom.
Through visits to rural and urban schools, we aim to spark curiosity, introduce ethical hunting as a respected career path, and plant the seeds of pride in Namibia’s hunting heritage.
Courses Offered
To see all planned courses and Dates see the Calendar section on the homepage
-
Hunting Guide Course (September 2026 & October 2026)
-
Professional Hunter Course (September 2026 & October 2026)
-
Big Game Hunting Course (TBA)
-
Bow Hunting Course (September 2026)
-
Previously Disadvantaged Namibian (PDN) Course: For Namibians struggling with literacy or English proficiency. (July 2026)
-
Practical Hunting Course (May 2026)
-
Rifle Handling and Safety
-
Field Guide
-
Trophy Preparation
-
-
ART Measurement Course (March 2026)
All courses—except the PDN Course (designed specifically for Previously Disadvantaged Namibians, as defined by Namibian legislation)—are open to everyone. The programme is built to promote inclusivity, empower individuals, and support skill development across Namibia’s conservation hunting industry.
For more information on the NAPHA School of Conservation contact:
Mariaan Kok