CUGE has embarked on implementing a higher level WSQ Landscape certification, viz. Advanced Certificate in Landscape Supervision (Parks, Reserves and Gardens (PRG) Specialisation). These certifications are part of a nationally recognized professional training framework intended to train and impart skills and knowledge in the respective fields of landscape such as Arboriculture, Nursery, PRG, Turf and Landscape Design & Construction (LDC).

In an effort to improve the skills level of the industry professionals, with this new certification, CUGE undertook a major initiative with Workforce Development Agency (WDA) to articulate and map the now defunct Trade Certificate in Landscape Practices curriculum to the new WSQ Advanced Certificate in Landscape Supervision (PRG Specialisation). This effort has reaped results as Trade Certificate participants can now upgrade to Advanced Certificate in Landscape Supervision (PRG Specialization) qualification through an express pathway. Trade Certificate holders are only required to do 4 WSQ Advanced Certificate modules, compared to the required 12 modules for regular participants to attain this full WSQ Advanced Certificate.

This is a golden opportunity for industry practitioners to obtain this new qualification in a shorter time and in a very affordable way. Two of Mao Sheng Quanji Construction's employees attended this express pathway and completed their upgrade within 3 months. Said Mr Choo, Managing Director of Mao Sheng Quanji Construction, “I am very happy that CUGE has provided this pathway for my employees to get this new certification in such a short time. I am pleased that Mao Sheng is one of the first NParks contractors which has employees equipped with this qualification. My employees have certainly benefited from this training.”

CUGE will continue to offer this express pathway to Trade Certificate holders in 2010. Interested individuals can check CUGE's 2010 Training Calendar and look out for the Trade Certificate Upgrade schedule. Alternatively, they can contact Chandru, Manager/CUGE at 6462-7315 or Chandru_C@nparks.gov.sg for more details.