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During discussions at WorldSkills Conference 2024, last month, about how to elevate skills on the global agenda, the WorldSkills Global Research Council unveiled its analysis of the Impact Statement Development Survey 2021.

Measuring and evaluating the global impact of the WorldSkills movement at individual, institutional, and systemic levels is essential to be able to demonstrate the role of skills as a catalyst for system-level change. It explains why research is a core strategic pillar of WorldSkills Vision 2025.

The WorldSkills Global Research Council was set up in January 2024 to improve the way the organisation and its Members capture, analyse, and act on data, and gain a better understanding of how Members utilise their membership to effect change.

Their first task was to revisit the WorldSkills Impact Statement Development Survey carried out in 2021, among Member countries and regions. Keen to draw insights that would guide the next phase of their work, the WorldSkills Global Research Council asked the Centre for Skills, Knowledge, and Organisational Performance (SKOPE) at the University of Oxford to review all the responses and supporting documentation.

The survey analysis emerged as a major theme at WorldSkills Conference 2024, which was held alongside WorldSkills Lyon 2024 in September. In a session titled Monitoring Impact: Data for better skills systems, members of the WorldSkills Global Research Council discussed how impact data helps us make better decisions, learn which programmes are successful, identify where can we improve as organisations, mobilise further support from public and private partners, and grow the WorldSkills movement locally, nationally, and internationally.

During the discussion, members of the Council shared highlights from the analysis of the Impact Statement Development Survey 2021, revealing clear positive impacts from participating in WorldSkills, particularly at the microlevel among Member countries and regions. The findings suggest potential for extending these impacts to meso- and macro-levels. However, future research is required to fully comprehend WorldSkills potential for higher-level impacts.

Follow-up interviews with Skills Finland and WorldSkills UK also showed the potential for creating a skills-led ecosystem for systemic change, developing local TVET systems by aligning WorldSkills methodologies with national priorities. When invited to, both Members shared their structured approach to measurement and evaluation to enable better outcome tracking and strategy adjustments.

Based on insights from the survey analysis and interviews with Skills Finland and WorldSkills UK, the analysis concluded that:

• Engaging various stakeholders at different levels to promote higher-level positive impacts is imperative;
• Enhancing strategic planning and ambition to drive systemic changes is fundamental for change;
• Developing a Theory of Change that addresses local challenges and needs in TVET development, economic growth, and societal transformation is essential; and
• Prioritising impact research to assess effectiveness and inform decisions is crucial for sustainable TVET development.

When presenting the findings at WorldSkills Conference 2024, Neil Bentley-Gockmann, Chair of the WorldSkills Global Research Council, outlined their aims saying, “We have three goals in the research that we have been working on for the past year. Firstly, we monitor the ever-changing world of work and help WorldSkills and its Members to understand it. Secondly, we develop positions to contribute to policy making and giving WorldSkills a voice in terms of the agendas. Thirdly, we monitor and conduct research on the impact of WorldSkills.”

The full report on the analysis of the Impact Statement Development Survey 2021 will be published in due course but the executive summary is available to download.

Case stories about Member and Competitor outcomes continue to be shared through the “We Are WorldSkills” campaign and the online resource for research from WorldSkills Members and Partners, launched in January 2024, will continue to be updated.

 

After a summer of world-class sport and entertainment at the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, and following the thrilling WorldSkills Competition 2024 in Lyon, excitement among European countries continues as preparations for EuroSkills Herning 2025 enter full swing.

As international teams and delegations returned home from the 47th WorldSkills Competition in France last week, the 33 member countries of WorldSkills Europe were already beginning to reset their focus as the countdown to EuroSkills Herning 2025 reached the monumental milestone of one year to go.

From 9 to 13 September 2025, the ninth edition of EuroSkills – the European Championship of Young Professionals – will be staged in Herning, Denmark. EuroSkills Herning 2025 is set to be the biggest and best EuroSkills Competition yet, bringing together around 600 young professionals from 33 countries, who will participate in 38 skill competitions for the chance to become the Best in Europe in their chosen areas of expertise.

Spurred on by the energy and excitement of WorldSkills Lyon 2024 and the stellar performance of Team Denmark at the Competition, the EuroSkills Herning 2025 Organising Team are switching into fifth gear as technical, operational, partnership, and marketing and communication work continue to gather pace.

EuroSkills Herning 2025: what to expect

As well as presenting a world-class Competition that will celebrate the most talented young professionals in Europe, Denmark is using the opportunity of hosting EuroSkills Herning 2025 to increase the national focus on the development of technical and vocational education and training. The event will showcase how skills competitions and international skills benchmarking represent a significant opportunity to help drive up standards of excellence among young professionals and students, which supports industry, economic, and productivity growth.

“Our goal is that in 2025 Denmark will host the most ambitious and modern EuroSkills Competition ever for WorldSkills Europe member countries. We want to ensure the best conditions for the competing young people and to convey a spirit of ambition, professionalism, and competition in a way that inspires everyone who visits the event,” said Henrik Kjeldsen, CEO, EuroSkills Herning 2025.

“The young professionals who will compete at EuroSkills Herning 2025 are the people who will help shape and transform our world, and who will find new paths to address the challenges we all face,” said Ben Blackledge, Chair of the Board, WorldSkills Europe. “This world needs the creativity, passion, ambition, and exceptional skills that Competitors will once again showcase for all to see at EuroSkills Herning 2025 next year,” Blackledge added.

Skilled for a greener future

EuroSkills Herning 2025 will also emphasise how skills can help us all rise to the global challenge of creating a sustainable future for our planet. Skilled professionals are central to the successful implementation of green technologies; from technicians in renewable energy to experts in sustainable construction, trained professionals are key in the global environmental transformation.

The theme of sustainability is at the heart of the event’s identity, underlining the ambition that the Competition aims to equip the young skilled workers of the future with the skills necessary to carry out the green transition.

“When participants, visitors, the world press, and sponsors come to EuroSkills Herning 2025, we want them to witness how we have created a world-class event capable of more than being a competition venue. That is why we are doing our utmost to implement sustainable solutions while, at the same time, constantly focusing on sharing knowledge within the different disciplines and on the importance of vocational education,” added Henrik Kjeldsen.

EuroSkills Herning 2025: first look

EuroSkills Herning 2025: when and where

EuroSkills Herning 2025 is scheduled for 9 to 13 September 2025 at MCH Messecenter Herning, Denmark.

Visitors to the Competition will be able to witness the Competitors in action as well as having the opportunity to try hands-on job-related skills experiences at the many ‘Try-a-Skill’ demonstrations.

Up to 100,000 visitors from across Denmark and abroad are expected to attend EuroSkills Herning 2025. The tens of thousands of school-aged young people who visit EuroSkills Herning 2025 will be encouraged to turn their passions into a profession.

EuroSkills Herning 2025 is organised in partnership by Denmark’s Ministry of Children and Education, Herning Municipality, the Central Jutland Region, the Danish Employers’ Association, the Trade Union Movement’s Main Organisation, WorldSkills Denmark, and WorldSkills Europe.

The city of Herning is home to a thriving industrial sector, with a large international workforce focusing on a shift towards Industry 4.0. This is a result of a long-standing tradition of close cooperation between local industry and businesses, educational institutions, elementary schools, and the municipality.

For more information, visit euroskills2025.com.

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Photography credits: All images provided courtesy of EuroSkills Herning 2025.

Main image caption: Team Denmark celebrate ahead of the WorldSkills Lyon 2024 Closing Ceremony. Parc Olympique Lyonnais (Groupama Stadium), Lyon, France. Sunday, 15 September 2024.

 

WorldSkills Lyon 2024 ended tonight with a breathtaking finale at the Closing Ceremony after a week of intense Competition and global thought leadership. Now, 1,400 Champions set off on the next step of their skills journey.

 

From the Parade of Nations at the Opening Ceremony on 10 September, to the spectacular Closing Ceremony celebrations tonight, WorldSkills Lyon 2024 has indeed proven that where there are skills, there is a way.

The electric energy of the incredible entertainers, musicians, and dancers that filled OL Stadium this evening came close to matching the heart-felt passion of the WorldSkills community that has gathered in Lyon for the last week to celebrate the power of skills.

While it may have ended, the success of WorldSkills Lyon 2024 will reverberate far and wide. WorldSkills Competitors, Experts, Members, Partners, and supporters from governments and education systems have shown that is possible to reimagine Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and elevate skills at the top of the global agenda.

In the vast halls of Eurexpo, over four intense days, WorldSkills Competition 2024 shone a spotlight on the world’s most talented youth as they competed fiercely in 59 skill competitions. It all culminated in the Closing Ceremony, where the top scorers in each skill were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, alongside Medallions for Excellence for those demonstrating world-class standards. Go to the results.

The prestigious Albert Vidal Award was presented by Chris Humphries, President of WorldSkills, to the Champion, or Champions, with the highest overall score across all skills. Tonight that honour went to Junwei Lu and Huixuan Xie from China, who competed in Industry 4.0.

Chris used the Closing Ceremony to emphasize the lasting impact of WorldSkills Lyon 2024. Speaking directly to the Champions, he said, “You truly are the changemakers. You are the people who are now going out into the world, to shape and transform it, and to find new paths to address the challenges we all face. This world needs your creativity, your passion, your bold ambition, and your exceptional skills.”

As the Ceremony reached its climax, so the WorldSkills flag was passed from WorldSkills France to WorldSkills China who will host the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai in 2026. The symbolic moment marks the continuation of the WorldSkills movement and its growing global impact. Guests on stage for the handover included Catherine Vautrin, Minister of Labour, Health and Solidarity of France and Wang Xiaoping, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security of China.

The evening ended with a spectacular show that included dancers, singers, and performers representing the delights and cultural highlights of China. Even WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 mascots Neng Neng and Qiao Qiao made an appearance, walking among the audience of cheering Champions.

Of course, the Competition was just one part of WorldSkills Lyon 2024. Alongside the world’s largest skills competition, some of the world’s most influential thinkers in skills gathered at WorldSkills Conference 2024. After two days of successful discussions and networking, David Hoey, CEO of WorldSkills International, encouraged every delegate to take home their new knowledge and apply it to the skills systems in their countries and regions.

In his closing remarks, David said, “The Conference is complete, but our work continues in haste. Whether you find yourself at the UN Summit of the Future next week, or are delivering grassroots programmes, we need you to raise this topic at every level. Continue to seek out opportunities to expand your work, find new collaborators, and work every day to elevate skills.”

As well preparing for the future, WorldSkills Lyon 2024 also marked the end of some significant contributions within the WorldSkills community. Chris Humphries, Laurence Gates and Stefan Praschl completed their terms on the WorldSkills Board, and welcomed new members, Francis Hourant, President and Chair of the Board, Brigitte Collins, Board Member for Competitions, and Alejandro Weinstein and Ray English, who have become the two new Board members for Strategic Development.

The current WorldSkills Champions Trust also got ready to end their current tenure and invited young people who competed at WorldSkills Kazan 2019, WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition, and WorldSkills Lyon 2024 to add their voices and apply to be in the next cohort of youth ambassadors. Champions ready to make their mark on the world can apply.

The WorldSkills community now looks ahead to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. The spirit of WorldSkills – building excellence, embracing challenges, and valuing skills – continues to grow. The 48th WorldSkills Competition promises to further integrate new technologies and sustainable practices, reflecting the rapid changes in global industries and the increasing need for adaptable, multi-skilled professionals.

For now, you can relive all the emotion of the medal-giving and the wonder of the entertainment or watch the full highlights video.

WorldSkills Lyon 2024

WorldSkills Lyon 2024, 10 to 15 September, is the world’s largest international skills competition, featuring 1,400 Competitors from almost 70 countries and regions. The 47th WorldSkills Competition showcases excellence in young skilled talent, while also bringing industry, education, and government leaders together to move skills to the top of the global agenda. WorldSkills is highlighting the critical role skills play in addressing global challenges, boosting economies and industries, and promoting excellence.

WorldSkills and WorldSkills Europe believe that skills have no gender, and every person deserves the same access to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). As day three of WorldSkills Lyon 2024 unfolds, we explore the ongoing role the skills community can play in creating equity.

Recent UNESCO data, shared on World Youth Skills Day 2024, revealed a stark truth: women are projected to hold just 25% of green jobs by 2030. This statistic serves as a sobering reminder of persistent gender inequities in education and employment. As businesses transform, these disparities risk deepening unless addressed head-on.

Raising awareness of these stereotypes and the inequities they produce is the first step in addressing them. To this end, WorldSkills is taking a seat around the table with international organisations, governments, and policy makers to discuss how they can reset TVET strategies, making them more inclusive.

WorldSkills is actively involved in global discussions to ensure equitable access to skills. At the UN Transforming Education Summit in September 2023, WorldSkills served as a Stakeholder Co-lead for one of the thematic tracks. The organisation contributed to a new set of global measures aimed at “rebooting” education systems, including designing gender-sensitive education policies.

Building on these efforts, WorldSkills Conference 2024 hosted two critical sessions on gender inequities in TVET. Breaking stereotypes: Building gender equity in skills explored ways to rethink policies to break entrenched gender gaps in the world of work, while Reimagining workplaces, cultivating inclusion: Attracting more women into STEM showcased projects creating pathways for women in STEM careers.

Featuring experts from organisations such as the European Commission, L’Oréal, OECD, and UNESCO-UNEVOC, the sessions underscored the global commitment to promoting gender equity in skills. El Iza Mohamedou, Head of Centre for Skills at the OECD, said, “Building gender equity in skills goes far beyond attracting more women into the workplace. It is also about inclusion. People from underrepresented genders need to have a voice, take part in decision-making, and have career development.”

Beyond policy discussions, WorldSkills and WorldSkills Europe recognise the power of role models in breaking the bias in skills. WorldSkills Champions Trust representatives play a significant role in this, using their platforms to show young people around the world that if they can see it, they can be it.

On International Women’s Day 2024, Champions Trust representatives Shweta Ratanpura, Yousra Assali, and Justina Ashiyana led a discussion about inclusion in skills. They explored how the WorldSkills community can collectively challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and build equitable spaces.

During that discussion, Justina shared her own experiences and recognised the support she had to break the bias. She shared how her father was her inspiration and gave her the confidence and support to become a joiner. She said, “I wish all spaces were equally inclusive for all. Support is very important.”

As day three of the Competition unfolds, the atmosphere at Eurexpo Lyon is set to reflect this shared understanding: gender equity in skills is both a social imperative and an economic necessity. An inclusive workforce is more productive, innovative, and capable of meeting the challenges of a global economy.

For more information about the Competition go to WorldSkills Lyon 2024.

WorldSkills Lyon 2024

WorldSkills Lyon 2024, 10 to 15 September, is the world’s largest international skills competition, featuring 1,400 Competitors from almost 70 countries and regions. The 47th WorldSkills Competition showcases excellence in young skilled talent, while also bringing industry, education, and government leaders together to move skills to the top of the global agenda. WorldSkills is highlighting the critical role skills play in addressing global challenges, boosting economies and industries, and promoting excellence.

 

The deadline to apply for the WorldSkills Champions Trust is drawing closer. Don’t delay: apply to become a youth ambassador for skills today.

The WorldSkills Champions Trust representatives have arrived in Lyon and are already busy at the 47th WorldSkills Competition. Both behind the scenes and centre-stage, they will make sure the voice of youth is at the heart of the event.

Over the coming days, the current team of 11 representatives will be leading the Parade of Nations, roving the Competition floor, meeting and greeting international media, and speaking at the WorldSkills Conference 2024. All before handing out the medals at the spectacular Closing Ceremony.

But who will be the WorldSkills Champions Trust for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026?

The search is still on for a new cohort of representatives for 2025 to 2026 but there’s not long left to apply. Whether you are competing in Lyon or have competed in the one of the last two WorldSkills Competitions, you could continue making your mark on the world as advocates for skills. Applications are open until 10 October 2024 and anyone who competed at WorldSkills Kazan 2019, WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition, or WorldSkills Lyon 2024 is eligible to apply.

WorldSkills is looking for young people who are passionate about skills, dedicated to change, and eager to inspire the next generation. You will travel the world sharing your story, join discussion panels, speak at events, add your voice to conversations, and encourage more young people to think about a future in skills. All while representing the many regions and skills in our WorldSkills community!

If you want some more inspiration, then look out for our WorldSkills Champions Trust at the following places during WorldSkills Lyon 2024:

• At the Opening Ceremony, all the representatives will be leading out the Parade of Nations and playing an active part in this exciting evening.
• Every one of the representatives will be leading tours of the venue and sharing the stories of their own skills journeys with international press.
• Several will be speaking at WorldSkills Conference 2024, joining panels and plenary sessions, including the Youth Forum.
• They will be joining official ceremonies and signings during the Competition and meeting WorldSkills Global Partners.
• They will be cheering on Competitors throughout WorldSkills Competition 2024, especially during the electrifying countdown on the last day.
• And, of course, do not miss them at the Closing Ceremony when they will be congratulating the 1,400 Champions and helping award the medals

Get more details on how to apply (deadline: 10 October) or read more about the inspiring work of the WorldSkills Champions Trust.

WorldSkills Lyon 2024

WorldSkills Lyon 2024, 10 to 15 September, is the world’s largest international skills competition, featuring 1,400 Competitors from almost 70 countries and regions. The 47th WorldSkills Competition showcases excellence in young skilled talent, while also bringing industry, education, and government leaders together to move skills to the top of the global agenda. WorldSkills is highlighting the critical role skills play in addressing global challenges, boosting economies and industries, and promoting excellence.

 

WorldSkills Europe is delighted to announce that PPG, a global leader in paints, coatings, and specialty materials, has become the newest Premium Sponsor.

With over 140 years of trusted innovation across construction, consumer products, industrial, and transportation markets, PPG is dedicated to solving its customers’ challenges through collaboration and creativity.

Headquartered in Pittsburgh, operating in over 70 countries, PPG is committed to supporting education and workforce development initiatives. From investing in innovative solutions to promoting diversity and sustainability, PPG is deeply involved in shaping the future of industry. Partnering with WorldSkills Europe reflects PPG’s mission to address skills shortages in the workforce, encourage youth participation, and foster talent development.

As a Premium Sponsor of WorldSkills Europe, PPG builds on its past support of WorldSkills National Competitions and WorldSkills Europe Members to further develop skills excellence for an internationally prepared workforce. This new Agreement represents PPG’s commitment to support the organisation of EuroSkills Herning 2025.

“We are delighted to welcome PPG as a Premium Sponsor of WorldSkills Europe. This partnership strengthens PPG’s long-standing commitment to the WorldSkills movement as a partner of competitions on many levels,” said Guillaume Suteau, Chair of the Board, WorldSkills Europe.

Earlier this year, PPG announced its support of WorldSkills Lyon 2024, which takes place from 10 to 15 September 2024 in Lyon France. PPG will provide financial support and will also supply products and expertise for the Painting and Decorating skill category at the Competition, including SEIGNEURIE® paints by PPG.

“Collaborations with global industry leading companies like PPG are invaluable in helping WorldSkills Europe prepare young people for their future careers. PPG recognises the critical role that skills play in building industries and supporting creativity and innovation. We look forward to benefiting from PPG’s expertise and impressive capabilities throughout this partnership,” added Mr. Suteau.

“Our partnership with WorldSkills Europe (WSE) reflects PPG’s commitment to helping to prepare students for careers in the skilled trades”, said Pascal Tisseyre, PPG vice president, government affairs, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “From investing in innovative solutions to promoting diversity and sustainability. We strive to be involved in shaping the future of our industry. Partnering with WSE aligns with our mission to address the lack of skilled workforce, encourage youth participation, and foster talent development.”

PPG’s sponsorship of WorldSkills Europe is part of its global commitment to support education and workforce development initiatives that prepare students for careers in the skilled trades. In 2023, PPG and the PPG Foundation announced a $2 million investment to support programs that provide training, curriculum development and career readiness resources for students and educators.

PPG joins eight other WorldSkills Europe Sponsors and 33 Member Countries that are committed to helping young people change their lives, and the fortunes of their communities and countries through skills.

Learn more about PPG.

 

The annual series of strategic meetings brought together WorldSkills Europe Members, Sponsors, and Partners in Luxembourg from 4 to 7 June 2024.

 

The WorldSkills Europe General Assembly Luxembourg 2024 has concluded after a two-day series of strategic meetings and discussions under the theme “Skills Shape Your Future”, reflecting WorldSkills Luxembourg’s dedication to fostering skills development, promoting vocational education, and championing the next generation of skilled professionals.

The General Assembly 2024 was hosted by WorldSkills Luxembourg and the Luxembourgish Ministry of Education, Children and Youth.

Planning for future Competitions was a key focus on Day 1, in addition to meetings of the Strategy Working Group, Competition Committee, and Sponsors and Partners. Members also heard from European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, who greeted participants via a video link.

EuroSkills Herning 2025: 15 months to go

The EuroSkills Herning 2025 team presented an update on all aspects of the ninth edition of the event, including details of the Competition Preparation Meeting – which is confirmed for 28–31 January 2025.

WorldSkills Lyon 2024: T-minus 95 days

The WorldSkills Lyon 2024 team shared details about the final preparations for the 47th WorldSkills Competition, which begins in only 95 days, including information about the WorldSkills Conference 2024.

EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027

The General Assembly 2024 also received an update on plans for EuroSkills Düsseldorf 2027, and WorldSkills Poland presented a final report about EuroSkills Gdańsk 2023.

Welcoming new Sponsors and Partners

WorldSkills Europe Sponsors and Partners were also present in Luxembourg, providing their perspectives on the future demands for skilled talent in industry.

Festool and PPG were officially welcomed as the newest Premium Sponsors of WorldSkills Europe, although both companies already have a long-standing commitment to the WorldSkills movement as partners of competitions on many levels.

Switzerland chosen as host of 11th EuroSkills Competition in 2029

The highlight of the General Assembly 2024 was, without doubt, the moment that Switzerland’s bid to host the 11th edition of EuroSkills in the city of Geneva in 2029 was approved by WorldSkills Europe Members. The result sparked scenes of jubilation among the Swiss delegation and WorldSkills Europe Members applauded and cheered.

EuroSkills Geneva 2029 is expected to take place in September of 2029 at the Palexpo Geneva and the Geneva Arena.

Welcoming the newest Member of WorldSkills Europe

The General Assembly 2024 also formally ratified the entry of the newest Member of WorldSkills Europe, Serbia.

Board election and new Chair of the Board

The General Assembly appointed Erik van der Zwan, WorldSkills Netherlands Official Delegate (pictured, below left), as a new Member of the Board, and WorldSkills Europe bid a fond farewell to Guillaume Suteau, of France (pictured, below right) departing Chair of the Board, who has completed his nine-year term as Board Member.

Ben Blackledge of the UK, (pictured, below centre) current WSE Board Member, was selected as the new Chair of the Board, with Erik appointed as Board Member responsible for Member Engagement, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Remembering Terry Cooke

The General Assembly also offered a moment’s silence in memory of Terry Cooke, former Treasurer and Board Secretary, and Board Member of WorldSkills International, who sadly passed away on 4 October 2023. At the WorldSkills International General Assembly 2023, Terry was recognised with the WorldSkills Fellowship for his immeasurable efforts in support of young people pursuing skills excellence.

General Assembly 2025

The next WorldSkills Europe General Assembly will take place in Herning, Denmark, during EuroSkills Herning 2025 (9-13 September 2025).

View photos from the General Assembly 2024 Luxembourg.

 

The city of Geneva will host the 11^th edition of EuroSkills in 2029. WorldSkills Europe Members approved Switzerland’s bid in a unanimous vote at the General Assembly 2024.

Switzerland presented its application to host EuroSkills in the city of Geneva in 2029 to the WorldSkills Europe 2024 General Assembly in Luxembourg on 6 June, after which WorldSkills Europe Member Countries unanimously approved the bid. The result sparked scenes of jubilation among the Swiss delegation and WorldSkills Europe Members applauded and cheered.

The EuroSkills Geneva 2029 bid was presented by SwissSkills in partnership with the Swiss Association Cité des métiers et de la formation (ACdMF) by mutual agreement with the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER), and in association with The Greater Geneva Region.

Switzerland has not hosted a EuroSkills Competition before, but has extensive experience in staging skills competitions. The country has hosted the WorldSkills International Competition three times – in the city of Bern in 1968, and twice in the city of St. Gallen, in 1997 and 2003. Switzerland also hosted 14 skill competitions in nine locations across the country as part of WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition.

Christian Schäli, President of SwissSkills, said: “As a member of WorldSkills Europe, SwissSkills is delighted to have earned the trust of its members and to have won the bid to host EuroSkills 2029, with the Geneva as a strong partner.”

Rémy Hübschi, Deputy Director of Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), said: “Switzerland has long been at the forefront of vocational education and training, and we take pride in sharing our exemplary practices and programs with the global community,

“Moreover, Geneva, as the proposed host city, radiates international charm and the corresponding hotel and event infrastructure,

“We firmly believe that EuroSkills 2029 in Switzerland will not only serve as a source of inspiration for participants but will also leave a lasting positive impression that will reach far beyond the borders of our country,” added Mr Hübschi.

Guillaume Suteau, Chair of the Board of WorldSkills Europe, said: “Congratulations to Switzerland on their successful bid to host EuroSkills in 2029 in Geneva. Switzerland is a strong member of WorldSkills Europe, and we are thankful for their commitment and investment to drive the WorldSkills movement forward in Europe. We wish Switzerland well with their work in the coming years and I know they will do a great job.”

About the City of Geneva

Geneva is the second-most populous city in Switzerland after Zurich and the most populous of the French-speaking Romandy region. It is a global financial centre, and a worldwide centre for diplomacy due to the presence of numerous international organisations, including the headquarters of many agencies of the United Nations and the Red Cross. Geneva’s thriving economy attracts top talent and cutting-edge technology in industries such as chemistry, watchmaking, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical technology, and precision engineering.

EuroSkills Geneva 2029 is expected to take place in September of 2029 at the Palexpo Geneva and the Geneva Arena.

Photography of Geneva provided courtesy of the CIty of Geneva.

 

Erik van der Zwan, CEO of WorldSkills Netherlands, has been appointed as a Member of the WorldSkills Europe Board following a vote by Member countries at the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly 2024, which took place on 6 June 2024.

Currently the Netherland’s Official Delegate for WorldSkills Europe and WorldSkills International, Erik van der Zwan is responsible for leading WorldSkills Netherlands’ programme of work both nationally and internationally.

Erik has worked at WorldSkills Netherlands for more than 15 years and has been its CEO since 2020. He has served as the Netherlands’ Official Delegate since 2021, previously as Technical Delegate since 2015. Erik has also fulfilled the role of Jury President in past Competitions, and has been active in several working groups for both WorldSkills Europe and WorldSkills International. In the Netherlands, Erik is also Chair of the Issue and dispute resolution team for National Competitions.

Erik has a bachelor’s degree in communication and marketing, and during his 10 years working in management, he has completed a business course in ‘Supervisory Board Member Non- profit’. Erik is also a former European Champion in Curling and has served as Chair of a Regional Sport Association for almost 12 years and was a consultant for the Dutch Curling Association the early 2000s.

Laurence Gates, CEO, WorldSkills Europe, said: “Erik has already contributed so much to the growth of the WorldSkills movement in the Netherlands and internationally. I congratulate Erik on his appointment and very much look forward to working with him in his new role on the Board.”

Erik van der Zwan said: “It is a great honour to get the support from the members of WorldSkills Europe to look after their interests. I‘m very excited to work with the Board and the Members, to make the movement future proof and showcase the gifted vocational talents from all over Europe. Let‘s not forget they built Europe!”   

Ben Blackledge becomes Chair of the Board

Erik’s appointment comes as Guillaume Suteau (France), current Chair of the Board, completes his nine-year mandate as a Board Member at the General Assembly 2024.

Ben Blackledge (UK), current WSE Board Member, takes up the role of Chair of the Board following Guillaume’s departure, with Erik appointed as Board Member responsible for Member Engagement, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Ben Blackledge, WorldSkills UK CEO, said “I am excited to take up the role of Chair of the Board, and I also want to extend my sincere thanks to Guillaume Suteau for his service to the Board,

“Since joining in 2021, it has been a pleasure working with the Members to share and harness best practices in skills development. I look forward to collaborating with Erik van der Zwan and the rest of the Board to continue raising standards in technical education and supporting young people across Europe.”

WorldSkills Europe thanks Guillaume Suteau for his service

“We extend our sincere thanks to Guillaume, who has been unwavering in his support for the WorldSkills movement, for being cheerleader for our Members and young people, and for vocational skills and education,” said Laurence Gates, CEO, WorldSkills Europe.

Guillaume Suteau has served as a Member of the WorldSkills Europe Board since 2015. He is currently Deputy Director of Performance, Territorial Development and New Professions at WorldSkills France.

Guillaume’s WorldSkills journey started at the 35^th WorldSkills Competition in Montreal, Canada in 1999, where he participated as a Competitor in Plastering and Drywall Systems. Keen to remain involved in the skills movement, Guillaume subsequently became a WorldSkills Expert in 2006 and then Chief Expert up until 2009, during which time he ran a successful plastering business.

Prior to his current role at WorldSkills France, Guillaume held positions as France’s Technical Delegate Assistant and then Technical Delegate for WorldSkills and EuroSkills Competitions between 2009 to 2017.

WorldSkills Europe Board – as of 7 June 2024

• Ben Blackledge (UK), Chair of the Board
• Christine Davatz (Switzerland), Treasurer and Board Secretary
• Patrik Svensson (Sweden) Chair, Competition Committee
• Alina Fleaca (Belgium) Vice Chair, Competition Committee
• Erik van der Zwan (Netherlands) Member Engagement, and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

 

WorldSkills Europe Members have formally welcomed Serbia as the newest (33rd) Member country.

 

Serbia’s Membership was ratified at the WorldSkills Europe General Assembly in Luxembourg on 6 June 2024.

The official Membership of Serbia is organised by the Office for Dual Education and National Qualifications Framework (NQF), which performs professional and technical tasks of common interest to the Government of the Republic of Serbia and several state administration bodies.

Becoming a Member of WorldSkills Europe means that Serbia will be able to participate at the EuroSkills Competition 2025 in Herning, Denmark, and at future EuroSkills Competitions and related activities.

“We are excited to welcome Serbia as a Member of WorldSkills Europe and look forward to the new perspectives, insights, and knowledge they will bring to our existing Members. As our membership continues to grow, so does the commitment of all our Members to drive up standards of excellence in skills, and inspire the next generation of young professionals across Europe,” said Guillaume Suteau, Chair of the Board, WorldSkills Europe.

The Official Delegate of Serbia for WorldSkills Europe is Dr Vesna Fabian, Assistant Director of Serbia’s Office for Dual Education and National Qualifications Framework. The Technical Delegate is Aleksandra Milićević, Head of Department for Dual Education and Education Policies at Serbia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIS).

“We firmly believe that the inclusion of the Office for Dual Education and National Qualifications Framework as an official Member of WorldSkills Europe will significantly contribute to the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and the overall enhancement of skills standards both regionally and globally,” said Dr Slavica Đukić Dejanović, Minister of Education, Republic of Serbia.

“Simultaneously, affiliation with WorldSkills Europe and participation in competitions will help Serbia elevate the attractiveness of diverse occupations, consequently boosting the enrolment of talented youth in vocational schools and vocational education and training programmes,” added Dr Slavica Đukić Dejanović.

Prof. Dr Gabrijela Grujić, Director of the Office for Dual Education and National Qualifications Framework, said: “The mission of the Office for Dual Education and NQF is to establish dual education as one of the main carriers of the development of skilled workforce and economic potential of Serbia, as well as to develop qualification standards in accordance with the development of modern society, to ensure quality in the process of acquiring qualifications, as well as their comparability and recognition with qualifications obtained in other countries. The model of dual education is recognized in the Republic of Serbia as a leading platform for the acquisition of knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes, as well as easier employment of young people. We believe that the participation of our teams in this kind of competition is an important factor for the valorization and satisfaction of students.”

Marko Čadež, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, said: “On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, whose representative is the Technical Delegate, we are extremely proud of the inclusion of our country in the most prestigious European skills competition, WorldSkills Europe. For our country, this is a great opportunity to present the expertise and skills of young people in Serbia in some of the 40 occupations at the international level. We sincerely believe that this is an opportunity to promote both the companies that implement the dual education in the territory of the Republic of Serbia, as well as dual education itself and the benefits it can provide to young people. We expect an increase in young people’s interest in the professions represented at the competition, which will ensure better quality and more competent personnel in the future. Serbia will immediately begin preparations for participation in the next, ninth, European competition in Denmark.”