Portugal holds its 46th national skills competition

WorldSkills Portugal’s 46th National Skills Competition was held from 12 to 16 November. Organized every two years, alternating between the country’s different regions, this edition took place in the northern region, in Santa Maria da Feira’s Europarque convention centre.

The event had a clear objective: to continue raising awareness among young people and their families, industry, and employers, as well as the general public, of the importance of skills as a driving force for employability and economic growth. It was also an opportunity for young people to discover new alternative education and career paths, and to attract more young people into Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Portugal has an ambition to achieve 55% enrolment of high school students into TVET by 2030, which is currently at around 40%. Despite being a proven gateway to exciting career opportunities, both for those looking to enter the labour market quickly and for those interested in higher education, there are still negative perceptions about vocational education and training in Portugal.

More than 400 skilled youth from across the country competed in 58 skills, with the support of over 600 Experts, Judges, and volunteers. The event was a success: 7,000 visitors attended, one of the highest in the history of Portugal’s national competitions.

Portugal: 75 years with WorldSkills

Next year will mark the 75th anniversary of the organization. In 1950, the first international skills competition was held between Spain and Portugal. It was the beginning of the WorldSkills movement. Portugal is the only Member to have participated in every WorldSkills Competition since 1950.

To acknowledge this special milestone for Portugal, WorldSkills President Francis Hourant attended the Opening Ceremony on 12 November, and WorldSkills CEO, David Hoey, delivered a video message.

“Portugal holds a very dear position in WorldSkills and this competition and next year are very special,” said WorldSkills CEO, Mr David Hoey, as he addressed over 1,000 people who attended the Opening Ceremony. “What began in 1950 as a vision to attract young people to vocational professions has grown into a worldwide force for skills excellence and development.”

Highlighting how collaboration and cooperation remain at the heart of WorldSkills, Mr Hourant added, “I feel a great sense of unity today too thanks to the spirit of sharing across borders. This exchange between Members is what makes our movement so strong.”

“I can’t wait to see what WorldSkills Portugal will come up with to celebrate 75 years of WorldSkills in 2025. The Members of WorldSkills and the different regions will be behind you to make this a memorable year.”