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Over the last decade, WorldSkills Kazakhstan has strengthened its Technical and Vocational Education and Training by embedding the WorldSkills Occupational Standards into its national policies, college programmes, and assessment systems.

Since becoming a Member of WorldSkills International in 2014 and WorldSkills Europe in 2016, WorldSkills Kazakhstan has embraced the WorldSkills Occupational Standards, using them to build a modern skills ecosystem. As a result, it is now spearheading a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) transformation across other Turkic-speaking countries and encouraging them to use the standards to aspire to skills excellence.

Much of this success has been down to WorldSkills Kazakhstan’s proactive leadership and holistic approach. Rather than seeing the WorldSkills Occupational Standards as only a framework for competition training, it has advocated for the standards to be embedded in every aspect of TVET training, from top-down regulation, and policy to bottom-up curricula and infrastructure.

These reforms are anchored in the State Compulsory Standard of Technical and Vocational Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which sets the requirements for TVET learning content, outcomes, and qualification levels. These regulations specify the use of WorldSkills Occupational Standards to develop educational programmes, modular training structures, and systems for assessing students’ practical skills.

Strong government support has also led to the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan setting up a National Competence Centre in its capital, Astana. The centre’s programmes will be underpinned by the standards and will initially focus on economically important sectors like 5G technology, AI, digital finance, and railway signalling. The intention is to develop the next generation of young talent, strengthen cooperation between businesses and TVET institutions, and serve as a training base for Kazakhstan’s WorldSkills Competitors.

Building expert capacity is just as critical for the country. WorldSkills Kazakhstan has been working with the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, or NAO TALAP, to develop new national training and certification programmes for its Higher College of IT and New Technologies. Instructors and vocational teachers are learning how to apply WorldSkills Occupational Standards and assessments to their everyday teaching and student evaluation. They are also connecting more closely with the international professional community and learning from other countries’ best-practice.

All this groundwork and government support has seen WorldSkills Occupational Standards become a leading framework to aid the design of training programmes, guide hands-on skills development, and monitor student outcomes. Colleges and training centres across Kazakhstan have introduced demonstration test formats and are increasingly relying on WorldSkills Technical Descriptions and training materials to ensure excellence, consistency, and transparency in training.

Investment is also being made in infrastructure. WorldSkills Kazakhstan is working closely with WorldSkills Global Industry Partner and WorldSkills Europe Premium Sponsor, Grohe, and national partners, like Tikurila, to secure the quality of equipment specified by the standards. Laura Alikulova, Technical Delegate for WorldSkills Kazakhstan, says, “By actively integrating WorldSkills Occupational Standards into our TVET systems and infrastructure, we are bringing skills assessment closer to real-sector labour processes.”

She continues, “We have state support for the standards at a policy level, and our national operators are busy implementing them across our colleges and training centres. They are the foundation of our educational programmes, our professional development, the standardisation of skills assessments, and now, the modernisation of our training infrastructure.”

This success is being celebrated in government reports, official TVET publications, and in the country’s media. National newspapers, including Kazakhstan Pravda, have recognised the value of the WorldSkills Occupational Standards in lifting skills achievement in Kazakhstani colleges.

In October 2025, this work led the country to host the inaugural TurkicSkills competition in Aktau. It was organised by the Ministry of Education, the Government of Mangystau Region, and WorldSkills Kazakhstan and united young professionals from Turkic-speaking countries around shared vocational standards, modern technologies, and the values of the WorldSkills movement.

TurkicSkills 2025 was the first skills competition of its scale among Turkic countries, featuring 10 skill areas across IT, construction, engineering, creative industries, and services. Sanjar Tatibekov, CEO of TALAP, described it as “an important step in enhancing the prestige of labour and strengthening the role of vocational professions in the modern world.” He recognised the importance of the WorldSkills Occupational Standards saying that “in my view, WorldSkills remains the most effective and reliable tool for promoting skills among youth.”

WorldSkills Kazakhstan’s team achieved strong results, earning six gold medals, two silver medals, and a Medallion for Excellence, and first place in the overall team ranking. The hosts also used the event as a platform to inform college directors and teachers on topics such as digitalisation, green skills, and modern pedagogical technologies. Ray English, Board member of WorldSkills International, attended the event and noted that Kazakhstan showed that it has all the capabilities needed to host future WorldSkills Competitions.

David Hoey, CEO of WorldSkills International, said, “the country has expertly integrated WorldSkills Occupational Standards into its TVET system and practices. It has become a catalyst for modernising education, strengthening expert capacity, and improving assessment systems. More importantly, it has created opportunities for young people in Kazakhstan to thrive in their careers and play a valuable part in their country’s growth and prosperity.”

 

WorldSkills Europe is proud to renew its partnership with FANUC, the world’s leading manufacturer of industrial robots, and WorldSkills Europe Premium Sponsor. 

Representatives from WorldSkills Europe and FANUC met in Luxembourg on 26 November to formally renew their longstanding sponsorship agreement, reaffirming their joint commitment to advancing skills excellence in industrial automation and robotics across Europe. 

This renewed partnership will see FANUC continue its role as a Premium Sponsor of WorldSkills Europe, providing technological expertise and strategic support for the Robot Systems Integration competition at the upcoming EuroSkills events. 

With a shared vision to inspire the next generation of highly skilled professionals, this sponsorship extension marks a continued investment in young talent and the future of smart manufacturing. 

“We are delighted to extend our collaboration with FANUC, a company that exemplifies technical innovation and training excellence,” said Laurence Gates, CEO of WorldSkills Europe. “Our partnership has not only strengthened the competition at EuroSkills, but also helped raise awareness among young people of the exciting careers available in automation and manufacturing. Together, we are shaping a more skilled and confident workforce for tomorrow.” 

“As a company with 50 years of experience in industrial robotics, we are very proud to be a partner of WorldSkills and to give young people an opportunity to learn more about robot programming”, said Marco Ghirardello, President & CEO of FANUC Europe.  

FANUC is a global leader in factory automation and industrial robotics. The company has been active in factory automation since 1955 and manufactures a wide range of products, from CNC systems to industrial robots and machine tools to AI-integrated automation solutions. Since developing its first robot in the 1970s, FANUC has delivered more than 1 million robots to factories worldwide. With more than 9,000 employees at 280 locations serving over 100 countries, FANUC offers comprehensive support and training services to its industrial partners worldwide.  

As part of this renewed agreement, FANUC will continue supporting young Competitors by ensuring they have access to cutting-edge equipment and training environments reflective of modern industry standards. Their commitment directly contributes to the high quality of EuroSkills Competitions and the development of practical, future-ready skills. 

The next EuroSkills Competition will take place in Düsseldorf, Germany, in September 2027, where hundreds of young professionals from 34 countries will compete across a wide range of skill areas, including Robot Systems Integration, proudly supported by FANUC. 

Find out more about FANUC. 

The WorldSkills Commemorative Edition 1950–2025, held in Lisbon from 4 to 8 November, celebrated 75 years of skills excellence and honoured the origins of the WorldSkills movement. 

Inspired by the original competition that launched the WorldSkills movement, more than 20 young professionals from Portugal and Spain came together for a friendly competition at the WorldSkills Commemorative Edition 1950–2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. 

From 4 to 8 November, the six skills from that first championship – including Industrial Mechanics, Electrical Installations, and Cabinetmaking – were recreated in their current forms. Five additional skills were offered for online participation, illustrating the continual transformation and modernisation of the WorldSkills movement. 

The event took place at the Marquês de Pombal Industrial School, which hosted the 13th International Training Competition in 1964, the only WorldSkills Competition Portugal has hosted to date. Returning to the same venue for this commemorative event highlighted Portugal’s enduring commitment to the WorldSkills movement and to promoting excellence in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Portugal is the only Member to have participated in every WorldSkills Competition. 

During the week, a series of talks reflected on the power of skills to transform lives, economies, and countries. National and international speakers – many from the WorldSkills community, including Experts, Sponsors, Competitors, and Delegates – took part in the sessions. Visitors were also able to view an exhibition celebrating 75 years of WorldSkills. 

Presented by Fátima Lopes, Ambassador of WorldSkills Portugal, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies brought together government representatives, Champions, Experts, trainers, and other members of the TVET community in Portugal, as well as Partners and Sponsors. They were also attended by WorldSkills Champions Trust representative for MENA, Narmeen Almarzooqi, and President of WorldSkills, Francis Hourant. 

Speaking at the Closing Ceremony, Mr Hourant honoured the founders of the WorldSkills movement and their enduring vision. He called on attendees to recommit to the next generation – those who will shape the next 75 years – and to ensure that skills remain a force for inclusion, hope, and peace in the world. 

“In every WorldSkills Competition, we witness excellence in technical mastery. But what truly distinguishes our young Champions is not what they do. It is how they do it. They are creative. They problem-solve. They respect one another across cultures and languages,” he said. “Today, the world faces uncertainty, economic, social, and environmental. But within our community, we see something profoundly hopeful: young people using their skills not to compete against each other, but to build together.” 

Across both ceremonies, Certificates of Merit were awarded to individuals for their exceptional contributions to strengthening the WorldSkills movement in Portugal and internationally, paying tribute to their dedication, talent, and impact. 

The WorldSkills Commemorative Edition 1950–2025 demonstrated that the same spirit of collaboration and aspiration lives on in every Competitor, Expert, educator, and Partner who believes that skills are the foundation of human progress. 

WorldSkills General Assembly 2025 brought the global skills community to Dubrovnik, Croatia from 12–17 October 2025, with over 350 delegates from Member organisations and Global Partners gathering to set direction for the decade ahead. 

For Europe, the Assembly was more than a meeting. It showcased the strength of regional collaboration and the shared ambition to accelerate high-quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) across the continent. Delegates advanced work on Vision 2035, welcomed new strategic partnerships, and prepared for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. 

Ideas, innovation, and cooperation 

Throughout the week, delegates explored the future of skills development, innovations in vocational education, and the importance of international cooperation. Discussions highlighted how to empower young professionals, promote green skills, and adapt to digital transformation in the labour market – priorities reflected in WorldSkills’ committee work and partner meetings. 

WorldSkills also announced new partnerships, including Pearson becoming a Global Premium Partner following a signing on day one, underscoring industry’s growing role in modernising assessment and supporting inclusive, digitised training systems. 

Participants of the General Assembly also had the opportunity to learn more about the Boss Ladies initiative – Divers’ largest and longest-running transformation project. The initiative aims to ensure that more women can unlock their potential in technical vocational education programs, which remain some of the most gender-segregated fields in the country. 

GA audience also witnessed the Live Pitch Finale of the BeChangeMaker programme, where the finalists presented their innovative ideas to the international audience, and they even had the chance to vote for their favourite team.

Strong European Voices at WorldSkills Croatia Conference 2025 

A major highlight was the WorldSkills Croatia Conference 2025 on 14 October, a full-day international forum under the banner “Skills (R)Evolution – Empowering the future with skills development and TVET.” The conference featured 20+ speakers and drew nearly 300 delegates, including European leaders from policy, industry, education, and youth communities. 

Finnish futurist and author Perttu Pölönen delivered a keynote on human skills in an AI-driven era, warning that removing “effort” from learning risks eroding “purpose”. In the opening plenary, Nurit Davidowicz, WorldSkills Champions Trust representative for Europe, called on employers to motivate the next generation and demonstrate the social impact of skilled work. 

Manuela Geleng, Director for Jobs and Skills at the European Commission, addressed Europe’s labour market needs, stressing the importance of making TVET careers attractive and ensuring cross-border mobility of skills.  

From industry, Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, described this as an “incredible moment for TVET,” outlining how investment and technology can empower learners and educators — a message reinforced by Pearson’s new partnership with WorldSkills International.  

European experts enriched the programme throughout the week. André Burri (SwissSkills) and George Kostakis (Cedefop) were among those sharing best practice on making skills systems more innovative and inclusive, reflecting Europe’s leadership from policy to implementation. 

Collaboration, strategy, and European leadership in action 

Following the conference, day-three committee and working-group sessions epitomised the Assembly’s collaborative spirit. In the Strategic Development Committee, delegates reviewed progress on marketing and partnerships, preparations for the WorldSkills Conference 2026, and updates on the OECD PISA-VET initiative. They also advanced discussions on Vision 2035 and EDI best practice. In the Competitions Committee, technical delegates examined the latest developments to the WorldSkills Occupational Standards and explored how AI could assist with translating Test Projects.  

European Members played a prominent role in governance. The General Assembly re-elected Alexander Erdmann (Germany) as Treasurer and elected Patrik Svensson (Sweden) as Board Member – Competitions, alongside Donald Tong (Hong Kong) as Board Member – Strategic Development. These outcomes underline Europe’s continued influence in WorldSkills’ global leadership.  

Beyond formal votes, delegates engaged in lively marketing communications workshops, Global Partner briefings, and a Skills Promotion event where Champions Trust members inspired Croatian students with personal stories of transformation through skills.  

Hospitality of the Adriatic 

The host, WorldSkills Croatia, ensured that delegates experienced Croatian hospitality and Dubrovnik’s cultural heritage. Evening activities included a guided tour of the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering time for reflection and networking amid the city’s historic walls and winding streets.  

As the Assembly concluded, Members and Partners expressed deep gratitude to the organisers and looked ahead to the next milestones on the WorldSkills calendar, including the road to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 

Read all the news from WorldSkills General Assembly 2025. 

WorldSkills General Assembly 2025 in Dubrovnik welcomed Patrik Svensson onto the WorldSkills Board.

WorldSkills General Assembly 2025 opened in Dubrovnik on 13 October 2025 with the election of new members to the WorldSkills Board. Delegates voted to fill three positions. Patrik Svensson of Sweden was elected as Board Member – Competitions, Alexander Erdmann of Germany was re-elected as Treasurer, and Donald Tong of Hong Kong was elected as Board Member – Strategic Development.

Patrik currently serves on the WorldSkills Europe Board, as Chair of the Competitions Committee, and is also Technical Delegate for Sweden to WorldSkills International. He brings extensive international experience in the leadership and development of skills competitions, having undertaken key roles including Competitions Committee Delegate Lead, and Competitions Manager for WorldSkills Sweden.

A former officer in the Swedish Armed Forces, Patrik credits his background in leadership and teamwork for shaping his fair, transparent, and collaborative approach. With his proven management skills and long-standing commitment to continuous improvement, he aims to support the ongoing success and integrity of WorldSkills Competitions worldwide.

Creating a unique experience for young people

In his candidate presentation, Patrik said, “I want to help create a unique experience for young people, ensure a transparent and fair Competition, and champion the needs of governments and industries. Ultimately, I want to ensure we make each WorldSkills Competition better than the last one.”

As Board member – Competitions, Patrik has stated that he will focus on delivering a strong, sustainable and high-level Competition for all young Competitors; further strengthening collaboration between Members; encouraging interested countries to join the WorldSkills movement and benefit from the opportunity to learn and exchange experience and expertise; and continuing to innovate, ensuring that the WorldSkills family reflects the industries and technologies that shape the global stage.

This year’s EuroSkills Herning 2025 welcomed nearly 103,000 visitors. Among them was Leyla Valiyeva, WorldSkills Champions Trust Representative for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), who brought her knowledge and expertise to support the event. 

Leyla Valiyeva is a talented chef from Azerbaijan and the WorldSkills Champions Trust Representative for MENA. She was the first to represent her country in the skill of Cooking at a WorldSkills Competition, and since then she has been mentoring future Competitors and actively promoting her trade.

EuroSkills Herning 2025 was Leyla’s very first EuroSkills event; this time not as a Competitor, but once again in an important role. During her time in Herning, Leyla not only covered the Competition for WorldSkills Europe and WorldSkills but also guided distinguished guests through the event and took an active part in the Closing Ceremony.

WorldSkills Champions Trust 

The WorldSkills Champions Trust (WSCT) is a volunteer group of past Competitors who are the voice of young people in the WorldSkills movement. They work to raise levels of engagement among WorldSkills Champions and promote active involvement in WorldSkills projects, initiatives, and activities.

WSCT Representatives receive training in areas such as media, content creation, and communications. They put these skills into practice at EuroSkills and WorldSkills events by taking part in meetings, press conferences, and side events. They also play an active role in promoting the WorldSkills mission to a broader audience, sharing the values behind the competitions and highlighting the crucial importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

Champion-guided tour

Visitors to EuroSkills Herning 2025 included students, teachers, family members and supporters of the Competitors, as well as professionals involved in government and TVET management.

One of Leyla’s key roles during the event was to take part in high-level meetings and guide distinguished guests through the competition areas. She shared the mission and values of WorldSkills, helping policymakers and visitors alike experience the energy and dedication of the young professionals competing.

Over the course of the event, Leyla guided four official tours. She welcomed delegations from the Centres of Vocational Excellence, accompanied the EU Directors General for Vocational Education and Training, and later led a tour for EU Ministers. These visits brought together ministers responsible for vocational education and training, senior decision-makers, international business leaders and education officials from across Europe. 

As she guided VIP guests through the exhibition halls, Leyla provided insights into the various competitions and Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVE), giving them a first-hand view of Europe’s top young talent in action. Her participation not only highlighted the importance of WorldSkills competitions but also helped to inspire decision-makers about the value of vocational education and the next generation of skilled professionals.

From one Champion to the next

During the EuroSkills Herning 2025 Closing Ceremony, Leyla was invited by the event presenters to share a few words. This gave her the opportunity to personally welcome the new winners and reflect on her journey as a WorldSkills Champion.

In her speech, Leyla shared the impact WorldSkills has had on her: “WorldSkills has changed my life. The Leyla who competed three years ago wasn’t the same Leyla standing here tonight. She’s more confident, she’s sure of her skills, and she knows she can. Being here is like reliving all the emotions together with the Competitors, so I want to say to them that everybody did a great job. We’ve been watching very closely and we’re very proud of each and every one of you.”

Asked how winning a medal had influenced her career, Leyla explained: “Definitely, it was a big milestone on my résumé. When I came back from the Competition, I started being invited to many speaking opportunities. I participated in panels and visited TVET schools to show other students that this organisation [WorldSkills] exists and that they can be a part of it. This experience aided me in landing my current job as a private chef at the Swiss Embassy in Azerbaijan.”

Her message was a perfect reminder of the dedication, passion, and resilience required to excel in a skill, and it highlighted the importance of supporting and encouraging the next generation of Champions. The moment truly captured the spirit of WorldSkills, connecting past, present, and future talent in a celebration of skill, learning, and achievement.

Follow Champions Steps

“One of my greatest takeaways was the opportunity to expand my global network, especially by connecting with delegates, members of the Secretariat, and fellow Champions,” Leyla reflected after the event. “I also felt privileged to guide European policymakers through the venue and to engage in meaningful exchanges about the future of TVET. These experiences reminded me how powerful skills competitions are in shaping opportunities, building bridges, and inspiring the next generation of skilled young people.”

You can find the content Leyla has created so far on the WorldSkills and WorldSkills Europe social media channels. And there’s a lot of it! The material is incredibly diverse: from day-of-competition reports, to interviews with Competitors, and conversations with the organisers.

If you want to see the world of WorldSkills through the eyes of former Competitors, follow the activities of the WorldSkills Champions Trust on the WorldSkills channels. Each Representative brings a unique and fascinating perspective, and we can’t wait to see what they will share next.

The countdown to EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 has officially begun. EuroSkills 2027 will mark the tenth edition of the Competition.

In a symbolic moment at the EuroSkills Herning 2025 Closing Ceremony (13 September 2025), the WorldSkills Europe flag was passed from Danish Competitor Louise Søltoft Pedersen (Floristry) to Laurence Bley (Hotel Reception) and André Pauly (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning), Competitors representing Luxembourg and Germany respectively, marking the official start of preparations for EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027, the tenth edition of Europe’s premier vocational skills competition.

EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 will be co-hosted by Germany and Luxembourg, bringing together skilled young professionals from across Europe to compete in approximately 50 skill competitions, celebrate excellence in vocational education and training, and inspire the next generation of skilled professionals.

The theme of EuroSkills 2027 will be ‘Skills! Shape Your Future’.

EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 will showcase Europe’s most talented young professionals while highlighting how skills empower the next generation to tackle global challenges, including technological innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability. The event will also emphasise the importance of vocational education and training across Europe and the value of cross-border collaboration.

“EuroSkills 2027 in Düsseldorf will be a unique celebration of vocational education and training, supported by our friendship with Luxembourg and the cooperation of many partners across Europe. These competitions are a symbol of excellence, expertise and emotion. They open doors for young people, create international role models and make a significant contribution to securing skilled workers for the future. With this event, we want to send a strong signal about the importance of vocational training, innovation and shared responsibility in Europe.” said Michael Hafner, President of EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027

Tom Muller, Director of Vocational Education and Training at the Ministry of Education, Children and Youth in Luxembourg added: “EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 is a unique opportunity and a great source of pride for Luxembourg. As a small country, standing on the European stage together with a strong partner like Germany shows that size does not limit ambition. Co-hosting this tenth edition of the EuroSkills competition is both a great honour and a responsibility, and we are determined to contribute with energy and passion. Our goal is not only to highlight the importance of vocational education and training for the future of both our countries and for Europe, but also to celebrate the values of excellence, innovation, and openness that Europe stands for. EuroSkills is much more than an event: it inspires, it connects, and it shows how skills can truly shape lives and societies.”

“It is a great honour and responsibility to host the tenth EuroSkills in Düsseldorf. We want to create an environment that offers competitors the best conditions to showcase their talents and gain unforgettable experiences. Our goal is to create a European showcase for vocational education and training that highlights excellence and opens up new perspectives for young people. Together with our partners, we will make this event an inspiring experience for everyone involved and for society as a whole.” emphasised Dawid Solak, CEO EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027.

The road to Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf was confirmed as host city at the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly in 2022, following a unanimous vote in favour of the first-ever joint bid by two countries to host a EuroSkills Competition. The historic announcement was met with applause and cheers by WorldSkills Europe Members, celebrating a milestone in transnational collaboration.

WorldSkills Europe, WorldSkills Germany, and WorldSkills Luxembourg signed an official Organisational Agreement to host the tenth edition of the EuroSkills Competition in Düsseldorf in 2027. The signing ceremony, held during a special reception at EuroSkills Gdańsk 2023, was attended by key representatives from both countries, including government officials, ministers, and heads of national skills organisations.

Germany and Luxembourg’s joint organisation reflects a strong European vision. Luxembourg will host supporting programmes, including an international youth camp, to encourage friendship, exchange, and collaboration among young people across Europe. Meanwhile, Germany, particularly the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, will provide substantial financial and organisational support, ensuring top-quality infrastructure, facilities, and a robust platform for showcasing skills excellence.

EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 will take place at Messe Düsseldorf in September 2027, featuring Competitors from more than 30 European countries, participating in a wide range of skill competitions across trades, technologies, and service sectors. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch Competitors in action, take part in hands-on demonstrations, and engage with education and industry experts. Special attention will be given to skills supporting the green transition, digital innovation, and sustainable development.

Düsseldorf is the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most populous state, and is renowned as an international business and financial hub with a broad mix of industries. Luxembourg will complement the event through cross-border initiatives, workshops, and educational programmes, further strengthening vocational education and training across Europe.

EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 will also mark the tenth edition of the EuroSkills Competition and the 20^th anniversary of the founding of WorldSkills Europe, reflecting two decades of inspiring young professionals, raising skills standards, and fostering vocational excellence across Europe.

For more information, visit EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 official website: https://euroskills2027.com/

The EuroSkills Herning 2025 Closing Ceremony on Saturday, 13 September, marked the culmination of an inspiring week of competition in Denmark, where almost 600 young, skilled professionals from 32 European countries were applauded for their pursuit of excellence and mastery in vocational skills.

Guided by the theme “Skilled for a Greener Future,” EuroSkills Herning 2025 highlighted not only outstanding skill and innovation but also the essential role of skills in building a sustainable Europe. Across 38 skill competitions, Competitors showed how technical expertise and creativity can address the challenges of tomorrow while shaping greener, more resilient communities. 

This evening, Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning was alive with excitement as delegations from all WorldSkills Europe Member countries, alongside 585 Competitors, 526 Experts, dignitaries, and thousands of supporters, gathered to celebrate the announcement of the Official Results of EuroSkills 2025. 

Jos de Goey Best in Europe Award 

The pinnacle of the Closing Ceremony was the presentation of the Jos de Goey Best in Europe Award, an honour reserved for the Competitor or team with the highest overall achievement across all competitions. 

Established in memory of Jos de Goey – founder and first President of WorldSkills Europe – the award recognises exceptional talent, dedication, and the spirit of the skills movement.  

In 2025, the Award went to Loris Cubizolles of France, Gold medallist in CNC-Milling. The trophy, symbolising both excellence and European unity, was presented on stage by Jos de Goey’s wife, Anouschka de Goey. 

A Celebration for All Competitors 

Ben Blackledge, Chair of the WorldSkills Europe Board, shared an impassioned message addressed to Competitors after the Award presentations concluded: “You have shown the world what it means to be skilled for a greener future, proving that skills have the power to inspire, to innovate, and to make our societies stronger, fairer, and more sustainable. You are part of a new generation that will lead Europe through challenges like digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and climate change – and your skills are the key to building that future.” 

Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, Chairman of EuroSkills 2025, added: “Over the past three days, Messecenter Herning has been filled with an energy unlike any other. The sound of tools, the focus of concentration, the sweat, joy – and maybe a few tears. We have had thousands of visitors from all over Europe – from the Centres of Vocational Excellence, ministers from the European Union, the Danish King to the hopeful schoolchildren seeing your excellence in action. Herning has been transformed into a workshop of Europe’s future.” 

All Official Results 

Official Results for all 38 skill competitions at EuroSkills Herning 2025 are available at: /index.php/what-we-do/skills-competitions-euroskills-event/euroskills-results 

Official photos 

Official photos from EuroSkills Herning 2025 are available to view and download from SmugMug at:  https://worldskillseurope.smugmug.com 

WorldSkills Europe Flag Handover 

The EuroSkills Herning 2025 Closing Ceremony concluded with the passing of the WorldSkills Europe flag to the next EuroSkills host nations, Germany and Luxembourg, presenting EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027. 

André Pauly (Germany) and Laurence Bley (Luxembourg) had the honour of receiving the flag from Louise Søltoft Peterson (Denmark). 

Watch the EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027 “first look” promotional trailer

EuroSkills Herning 2025 was the ninth edition of the biennial EuroSkills Competition – the biggest vocational education and skills excellence event in Europe. 

The event began with an Opening Ceremony on 9 September, followed by three days of action-packed competitions in 38 skills, and concluding with this evening’s Closing Ceremony, where awards including Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals were presented to the highest scoring Competitors. 

EuroSkills Herning 2025 was organised by WorldSkills Europe in partnership with the Ministry of Children and Education of Denmark, Herning Municipality, the Central Jutland Region, WorldSkills Denmark, and the country’s leading employer and labour organisations. 

EuroSkills Herning 2025 was honoured with a Royal visit yesterday as HM The King of Denmark attended the European Championship for Young Skilled Professionals at MCH Messecenter Herning. 

EuroSkills 2025 is is first time Denmark has hosted the EuroSkills Competition, bringing together 585 of Europe’s most talented young professionals from 32 countries, who are competing for medals in 38 different skills. 

During the visit, His Majesty toured the competition halls, stopping at several skill areas where Competitors demonstrated their expertise and creativity.  

The Royal presence underscored the importance of vocational skills in shaping Europe’s future, particularly in the context of the green transition. 

“HM The King’s visit is an important recognition of EuroSkills as a European platform. His presence highlights the fact that young skilled professionals are central to Europe’s future – not only in driving the green and digital transitions but also as role models inspiring the next generation.” said Henrik Kjeldsen, CEO of EuroSkills Herning 2025. 

Ben Blackledge, Chair of the Board of WorldSkills Europe, also highlighted the wider significance of the Royal visit: “We were delighted to welcome His Majesty The King of Denmark to EuroSkills 2025 today. His Majesty’s visit will undoubtedly shine a spotlight on vocational education and training across Europe. At the heart of our movement are the young people who dedicate themselves to developing world-class skills. They are living proof that highly skilled professionals are essential to the future workforce, and it is crucial that their hard work is recognised. His Majesty’s visit was therefore especially meaningful and an inspiration to all involved.” 

EuroSkills Herning 2025 takes place from 9–13 September at MCH Messecenter Herning. Over three days (10–12 September), thousands of visitors can experience first-hand the competitions and interactive ‘Try-A-Skill’ activities, which showcase modern career paths and opportunities for young people. 

The event will end with a spectacular Closing Ceremony at Jyske Bank Boxen on Saturday, 13 September, where the new European Champions will be announced and medals awarded. 

Patrik Svensson re-elected for a second term as WorldSkills Europe Board Member.

WorldSkills Europe is delighted to announce that Patrik Svensson, Competitions Manager for WorldSkills Sweden, has been re-elected as a Member of the WorldSkills Europe Board.

Patrik Svensson was elected to the Board following a vote by WorldSkills Europe Members at the 2025 General Assembly, which took place in Herning, Denmark, during EuroSkills 2025. Patrik will continue in his role as Chair of the Competitions Committee.

Patrik Svensson has previously served as Vice Chair and Chair of the Competitions Committee and brings extensive experience from both WorldSkills Europe and WorldSkills International. He has been a Technical Delegate, Jury President, and Jury President Team Leader, contributing significantly to the governance and operational success of skills competitions across Europe.

Introducing Patrik Svensson

Patrik Svensson’s involvement in EuroSkills and WorldSkills Europe began in 2010 as an Observer. Since 2016, he has taken on key roles including Technical Delegate, Jury President, and Jury President Team Leader. He has also served as Competition Committee Delegate and Competition Committee Delegate Lead and was Competition Executive Manager for EuroSkills Gothenburg 2016. Patrik currently serves as Competitions Manager for WorldSkills Sweden, overseeing the preparation of the National Skills Team for EuroSkills and WorldSkills Competitions, as well as the organisation of the national competitions.

Patrik stated: “I am honoured to be re-elected to the WorldSkills Europe Board and to continue serving as Chair of the Competitions Committee. Over the last five years, I have worked to strengthen the quality, fairness, and transparency of Skills Competitions across Europe, and I look forward to continuing this work to provide the best possible experience for Competitors, Experts, and Delegates alike.”

Laurence Gates, CEO of WorldSkills Europe, said: “Patrik’s extensive experience and commitment to vocational skills and competitions make him a key member of our Board. We are thrilled to continue working with him to further develop the WorldSkills Europe movement and deliver excellent competitions for young people across Europe.”

WorldSkills Europe Board of Directors – as of September 2025

Mr. Ben Blackledge (UK), Chair of the Board

Ms. Christine Davatz (Switzerland), Treasurer

Mr. Patrik Svensson (Sweden), Chair, Competition Committee

Ms. Alina Fleaca (Belgium), Vice Chair, Competition Committee

Mr. Erik van der Zwan (The Netherlands), Member Engagement, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion