The future of (world) skills

Thousands of competitors from over 60 countries are gathering in Kazan, Russia this week (22-27 August) to compete for prestigious medals in a range of skills from aircraft maintenance to patisserie to web technologies. The 45^th WorldSkills Competition showcases excellence in vocational education and training as a driver of social and economic development. It brings together the best vocational students and apprentices selected at national WorldSkills competitions that have been held over the last two years.

They are joined in Kazan by leaders in education, government, business, industry and skills organisations who will share best practices, learn about and discuss global trends and pressing issues in vocational education and training and skills at the WorldSkills Conference, "Skills for Change: Building blocks for impact".

Speaking at the event, ETF Director, Cesare Onestini, highlighted the importance of skills and vocational education in providing people of all ages with opportunities to fulfil their potential throughout their working lives.

“Skills development, skills intelligence and career guidance and counselling are the three pillars that make vocational training a tool that ensures inclusive societies” he said. “However, countries in the EU neighbourhood still face challenges in reaching vulnerable groups and in making vocational education and training an attractive option”.

Seven ETF partner countries are participating in this year’s competition including Armenia, Belarus, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Morocco, Palestine and Russia.