SHANGHAI, China, 4-Oct-2025 — /EPR EDUCATION NEWS/ — Shanghai has launched the one-year countdown to WorldSkills 2026, which will take place in the city from 22 to 27 September next year, marking the final stretch of preparations for the world’s largest vocational skills competition, according to a press release (in French) published on EuropaWire. The 48th edition will gather young skilled talents from around the globe to compete in 64 contests, including new categories such as rail vehicle technology and intelligent security technology, reflecting the fast-changing needs of modern industries.
The one-year countdown ceremony was held at the Friendship Hall of the Shanghai Exhibition Center and brought together key officials, including Yan Qinghui, vice minister of Human Resources and Social Security, Chen Jie, vice mayor of Shanghai, and Michael Fung, WorldSkills Board member. In a video address, WorldSkills CEO David Hoey praised China’s ambitions for hosting the event and stressed its potential to leave a lasting legacy, from embedding occupational standards in vocational training to inspiring more young people to pursue skilled careers.
To ensure smooth preparations, China’s State Council has established a leadership group and an organizing committee, while Shanghai has created an executive office to oversee operations. Volunteer recruitment is already underway, with participants expected to provide services at airports, competition venues, and hotels. EuropaWire noted that this call extends to people of all ages who will play a vital role in delivering a large-scale international event.
Promotional campaigns have also gained major traction, with Chinese actor Xiao Zhan appointed as promotional ambassador, attracting over 500 million online views, alongside the release of the official video “Skills Venture.” The WorldSkills flag has also featured prominently, making a symbolic deep-sea journey with China’s Jiaolong submersible before being formally presented back to the WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 Executive Bureau during the ceremony.
Corporate backing is strong, with ICBC, Bank of Communications, SAIC Motor, and BOSS Zhipin named as strategic sponsors. EuropaWire further reported that more than 200 companies worldwide have expressed interest in sponsorship, underlining the broad support from the business community. In addition, ten highly skilled Chinese professionals have been appointed as “Dream Ambassadors” to promote the spirit of craftsmanship and inspire youth under the theme “Master Skills Change Your Future.”
WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is expected to be the most diverse and dynamic edition to date. More than 1,400 competitors from over 60 countries and regions will take part, while the event will also feature the WorldSkills Expo, offering career resources, educational activities, and Try-a-Skill experiences. Together, these elements will make Shanghai a global stage for skills, innovation, and collaboration, underlining the crucial role of vocational expertise in shaping the future workforce.
The WorldSkills movement continues to serve as a platform where young people from across the globe can showcase their expertise in more than 60 trades and professions. In France, the journey toward Shanghai will first pass through Marseille, where the 48th National Skills Competition will take place from 16 to 18 October 2025. The winners from this national stage will go on to represent the country at the international level, joining their peers at WorldSkills 2026 in Shanghai or at EuroSkills 2027 in Düsseldorf, ensuring that local talent has the opportunity to shine on both the European and global stage.
