WorldSkills Commemorative Edition honours 75 years of collaboration and innovation

Seventy-five years ago, a modest vocational skills competition in Madrid, Spain, marked the beginning of WorldSkills. This week, in honour of the origins of a movement that now spans almost 90 countries and regions, Portugal will recreate that pioneering spirit with the WorldSkills Commemorative Edition 1950–2025.

Taking place from 4 to 8 November at Marquês de Pombal High School in Lisbon, this special Competition will celebrate the evolution and innovation that have defined skills development over the decades. By showcasing how far Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has come, the event aims to inspire new generations and reaffirm the values of excellence, perseverance, and cooperation that have guided every WorldSkills Competitor throughout history.

In practical terms, the event will combine two formats. The first is the traditional in-person Competition, where Competitors complete Test Projects using regular equipment and tools. The second will be a digital Competition. Both will feature Competitors from Portugal and Spain, as in the first WorldSkills Competition.

The following skills are included in this Commemorative Edition:

• Industrial Mechanics
• CNC Turning
• CNC Milling
• Electrical Installations
• Cabinetmaking
• Additive Manufacturing
• Mechanical Engineering CAD
• Industrial Design Technology
• CNC Woodwork
• CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
• Electrotechnical Projects

Over three days, participants will also have the opportunity to take part in a series of talks reflecting on the power of skills in transforming lives, economies, and nations. These sessions will spotlight different groups within WorldSkills community – Experts, Sponsors, Competitors, and Delegates – reflecting on their roles and experiences.

Several sessions are designed to deepen the conversation around the future of work and emerging technologies. For example, Narmeen Almarzooqi, WorldSkills Champions Trust representative for MENA, will participate in a seminar on how artificial intelligence is being introduced into traditionally hands-on skill areas such as construction, manufacturing, and mechanical engineering.

Hosting the event in Portugal underlines the country’s enduring commitment to the WorldSkills movement. As one of the founding Members, Portugal has, over decades, embedded technical and vocational education and training (TVET) at the heart of its national strategy.

This Commemorative Edition in Lisbon promises to do more than celebrate 75 years of existence – it seeks to transform memory into momentum. It is a reminder that while the methods may change, equipping young people with the skills to build a better world continues to be our core mission.

Visit WorldSkills Commemorative Edition 1950–2025 website for more information.