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WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

What's ON #2: Shaping a skills-driven future

22 September 2026

WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 has officially started! Read on to find out what the first day of the 48th WorldSkills Competition has in store...

What has been happening so far?

The magic of the Opening Ceremony

Last night WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 officially began at the spectacular Opening Ceremony. The night was filled with celebration, breath-taking entertainment, messages of support from past WorldSkills Champions, and the Parade of Nations. Watch the recording and relive the whole incredible evening.

One School One Member

WorldSkills Member teams went to visit local Chinese schools. After six months of virtual cultural exchange, Competitors and students finally got to meet each other in person. Read more about their experience and reflections.

Vision 2035

WorldSkills Members approved Vision 2035. The strategic plan will now be a blueprint for change over the next decade, ensuring that more people value skills and skilled professionals. Read Vision 2035 for yourself.

What is coming up?

The Competition starts today!

1,400 Competitors will take to the floor, spurred on by the energy of the magical Opening Ceremony, and set to work on their Test Projects. Over four days, you will have a chance to marvel at the magic of their talent and learn more about the mastery of their skill. Plan your time at the NECC.

WorldSkills Conference 2026 begins

More than 2,000 delegates gather today to “Shaping a Skills-Driven Future” Following an opening address from Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, the Conference will get underway with plenary session, panels, a skills market place, Competition tours, and field trips.

Check out WorldSkills Expo

The Expo is made up of over 400 booths and hands-on activities. It runs throughout the Competition and allows visitors to immerse themselves in skills. The Expo spans 50,000m2 and is divided into six zones: global perspectives, major national projects, craftsmanship, urban development, corporate practice, and talent development. Find out more by downloading the WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 app.

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