Recently, the Landscape Design and Construction Track of the 2024–2025 Guangdong Vocational College Skills Competition was successfully held at Shenzhen Polytechnic University (SZPU). The event was hosted by the Department of Education of Guangdong Province and organized by SZPU, attracting nearly 100 contestants from 24 higher vocational institutions across the province. SZPU’s team—comprising Zhang Zhanning, Huang Lipeng, Li Zhuhui, and Chen Lu—demonstrated outstanding teamwork and performance, ultimately claiming first prize after intense competition.

This competition was conducted in a team format, with each team consisting of four members. It featured two main modules: “Skills Test” and “Comprehensive Presentation.” Designed as a full-cycle practical assessment of “design–construction–presentation,” the competition evaluated participants’ proficiency in digital design tools, innovative use of ecological materials, and refined construction techniques. It also aligned closely with strategic goals such as rural revitalization and ecological development under the Green Guangdong initiative.The “Skills Test” comprised two parallel components. The Landscape Design section focused on creativity, planning, and drafting skills. One team member was required to complete a landscape design drawing for a 5m × 4m garden within four hours, based on specified environmental settings and materials. The Landscape Construction section assessed practical execution skills, including material selection, construction techniques, and teamwork. Three members of each team worked together to complete tasks such as masonry, paving, carpentry, water features, and greening within four hours, culminating in the construction of a complete 5m × 4m garden.The Comprehensive Presentation module involved one or more team members delivering a presentation on-site in under 10 minutes, explaining the concept, design intent, construction process, and showcasing the team’s collaborative efforts.

A number of entries stood out for their innovative integration of regional characteristics and green technologies, offering creative solutions to enhance urban and rural living environments. The successful hosting of this competition not only helped cultivate high-quality technical talent for the digital transformation of Guangdong’s landscaping industry but also highlighted the important role of vocational education in supporting ecological civilization.

(Reported by Zhao Xiyao, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering)