Chinese delegation for 48th WorldSkills Competition formed

BEIJING, Aug. 23 (Xinhua) -- China has formed its national delegation for the 48th WorldSkills Competition to be held in Shanghai in September, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced Sunday.

The Chinese delegation comprises 220 members, including 71 competitors who will participate in all 64 skill categories of the event. The contestants come from 21 provinces across the country, with 49 being students and 22 being working professionals. Their average age is 21, all within the age bracket from 18 to 25.

Held every two years, the WorldSkills Competition is the world's largest international gathering of skills talent. It is scheduled to take place in Shanghai from September 22 to 27 this year, with nearly 70 countries and regions expected to send about 1,400 competitors.

Since joining WorldSkills International in 2010, China has taken part in seven previous competitions, amassing a total of 93 gold medals, 41 silver medals, 28 bronze medals, and 71 medallions for excellence. The country has topped both the gold medal tally and the overall team standings for four consecutive editions.

The competition covers a wide range of professional skills divided into six major categories, including manufacturing and engineering technology, information and communication technology, construction and building technology, transportation and logistics, creative arts and fashion as well as social and personal services.

It will feature 64 skills, including seven new skills, such as software testing and unmanned aerial systems. The competition focuses primarily on practical work and generally does not include theoretical exams, with competitors instead completing hands-on tasks.

A spokesperson for the Chinese delegation said the team will strictly abide by event regulations, compete fairly and with sportsmanship, and strive to demonstrate both skill excellence and a positive image, showcasing the craftsmanship and professionalism of China's young skilled workers.

The delegation's official awards ceremony attire and competition uniforms have also been unveiled. Both outfits draw inspiration from the wooden structural craftsmanship widely found in ancient Chinese architecture, reflecting a heritage of artisanship and cultural confidence.