Humanoid robots and dancers open WorldSkills 2026 in Shanghai

WorldSkills 2026 officially opened in Shanghai on Monday, marking the start of the biennial global competition that showcases vocational excellence across a wide range of trades and technologies. The opening ceremony featured a blend of cutting‑edge humanoid robots and live human performers, underscoring the event’s focus on the integration of advanced automation with skilled craftsmanship.

The competition draws 1,385 participants representing 68 nations, who will contend in 64 distinct skill categories ranging from traditional trades such as carpentry and metalworking to emerging fields like robotics, renewable energy, and digital fabrication. Athletes will compete over a ten‑day period in state‑of‑the‑art venues equipped with industry‑standard tools and workstations, allowing them to demonstrate both technical proficiency and innovative problem‑solving under real‑world conditions.

Organizers anticipate that the Shanghai edition will highlight the evolving landscape of vocational training and reinforce the importance of skilled labor in driving economic growth. The event will culminate with an awards ceremony that recognizes the top performers, providing a platform for international collaboration and the exchange of best practices among the world’s leading vocational educators and industry partners.