Queensland Department of Public Works purchasing officer Michael Hart (pictured) has praised the purchasing certification program delivered by CQU's Direct Edge unit in partnership with Queensland Purchasing.

Michael has achieved his level four purchasing certification which included study in eight purchasing courses over four years.

He said he was not surprised to find that the Queensland program is being conducted under licence to the New South Wales Government and is used as a benchmark by other jurisdictions in the development of their procurement skills.

"It would be difficult finding a better researched and more thoroughly organised system," he said.

Mr Hart said he was also not surprised that the program now had worldwide recognition for such a significant contribution to improving purchasing expertise and raising standards in the profession.

"I have no hesitation in recommending it to other people and believe it is a wonderful program," he said.

"The knowledge and skills I have gained, along with a marked increase in personal confidence, have made the entire experience well worthwhile.".

Each purchasing certification level includes a component of theoretical and practical assessment.

Direct Edge, a corporate development unit of Central Queensland University, has developed and administered student certification testing for Queensland Purchasing since the program’s inception in 1999.

For further information about the Queensland Purchasing Certification Program offered through Direct Edge phone 4923 2737 or visit www.directedge.com.au