SHANGHAI — Demonstrating global skills excellence, the WorldSkills Conference 2026 will convene ministers, policymakers, and dignitaries alongside the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, providing a platform for the international skills community representing over 120 countries and regions.
The three-day event will feature plenary and interactive sessions, the Skills CoLab, and field trips to innovative centres around Shanghai. For WorldSkills Members, the conference offers a chance to provide ministers with a direct view of skills excellence and connect them with global leaders addressing the future of work and learning.
WorldSkills Ireland has confirmed the participation of James Lawless TD, Ireland’s Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, marking an early high-level diplomatic engagement for the event.
Minister Lawless said, “I am excited to visit Shanghai for WorldSkills 2026 and to see skills excellence in action on a global stage. It will be a fantastic opportunity to support Team Ireland as they compete with the very best young skilled professionals from around the world, while also engaging with fellow Ministers and leaders from across the globe. I look forward to sharing experiences, strengthening international collaboration, and exploring how we can ensure skills remain at the heart of building resilient, future-ready economies.”
David Hoey, CEO of WorldSkills International, said, “I encourage every Member to extend this invitation to their Ministers and dignitaries. This is an unprecedented opportunity to bring them into direct dialogue with those people shaping the future of skills development worldwide. We firmly believe that the relationships built in Shanghai will go on to strengthen the case for TVET on the international agenda for years to come.”
