FGASA’s Significant Transition: Elevating Professional Standards in Nature Guiding

The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) is transitioning to a professional body recognized by SAQA, ending entry-level accredited programs by mid-2026. Aspiring guides must obtain qualifications through the QCTO. This change aims to enhance professional standards, diversity, and continuous development in nature guiding, ultimately benefiting South Africa’s tourism industry and recognizing guides as skilled professionals.

The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) is undergoing a pivotal transformation as it transitions from being a CATHSSETA-accredited training provider to a recognized professional body by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This strategic change, aligning with the government’s 2021 Tourism Sector Masterplan, aims to enhance the professionalism of nature guiding in South Africa, which has been significantly influenced by FGASA since its inception in 1991.

Having trained over 40,000 field guides in three decades, FGASA is now planning to cease its entry-level accredited programs by mid-2026. Aspiring nature guides will need to obtain their qualifications through the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). Current trainees will be afforded a three-year period to complete their existing certifications.

As FGASA finalizes its registration with SAQA, Managing Director Michelle du Plessis emphasized the importance of this move: “By formally registering as a professional body, we will be able to better advocate for the interests of our members, ensure the maintenance of high standards, and open the sector to greater diversity and transformation.” This transformation seeks to establish formal standards, provide recognition, and offer continuous professional development for nature guides.

Du Plessis further articulated the benefits, stating, “It’s the best thing that could happen to the guiding industry. It brings this profession in line with other recognised professions.” By professionalizing the guiding sector, South Africa aims to uphold its reputation for producing some of the finest guides worldwide, thus contributing positively to the growth and competitiveness of the tourism industry.

Since its establishment in 1991, FGASA has played a foundational role in shaping professional standards for field guiding in South Africa. The organization has significantly contributed to the training and certification of thousands of field guides, thereby fostering a well-regulated and professional nature guiding sector. The recent changes align with broader governmental strategies aimed at enhancing professionalism in tourism-related professions, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and educational excellence within the industry.

In conclusion, the transformation of FGASA into a recognized professional body marks a significant milestone in elevating the standards of nature guiding in South Africa. By mandating higher professional qualifications and fostering continuous development, this initiative not only affirms the profession’s credibility but also supports the vibrant tourism sector in South Africa, positioning it competitively on a global scale. FGASA’s commitment to professional advocacy promises to benefit nature guides and the broader ecological tourism landscape.

Original Source: www.getaway.co.za