Young Chinese vocational specialists are aiming to extend their championship streaks at the 47th WorldSkills Competition (WSC), which officially commenced Tuesday evening with an opening ceremony at the LDLC Arena near the city of Lyon, France.
Formerly known as the International Vocational Training Organization, WorldSkills is an international charity that organizes national championships for vocational skills. Every two years, the organization hosts a competition, attracting competitors from around the world.
This year's competition is scheduled to run from Sept. 11 to 14, with the closing ceremony on Sept. 15. The event will bring together approximately 1,400 participants from nearly 70 countries and regions, competing in 59 skill categories.
Competition categories are divided into six major sectors: Creative Arts and Fashion, Information and Communication Technology, Construction and Building Technology, Manufacturing and Engineering Technology, Transportation and Logistics, and Social and Personal Services.
China has sent a contingent of 68 competitors, comprising 58 men and 10 women, with an average age of 22. They will participate in contests in all the skill categories, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China.
"Having been battle-tested, we are confident that we can represent our country and succeed in this competition," said Lu Yanlin, a Chinese contestant.
"For example, in CNC milling operation, we have won the gold medal for four consecutive editions. We have also snatched gold medals in welding, masonry, and fashion technology for three editions. I believe that every contestant who showcases their skills and youthful vigor on the WSC stage is exceptional," said Zhai Tao, assistant to the China delegation.
WorldSkills was born out of the ruins of the Second World War, seeking to give young people opportunities to excel in professional fields with the goal of raising "the profile and recognition of skilled people." The competition now serves as a platform for member countries or regions to showcase and exchange vocational skills at an advanced level.
'Battle-tested' Chinese team in high spirits as 47th WorldSkills Competition kicks off in France
Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Brussels, Belgium on Monday in solidarity with workers from an Audi factory that is scheduled to close and to call for a support plan to maintain industrial jobs.
According to local police, 5,500 people took to the streets of the Belgian capital, with many gathering in Place du Luxembourg, a major public square adjacent to the European Parliament building, Espace Leopold.
The demonstration was prompted by Audi's decision to close its factory in the city's Forest neighborhood, where some 3,000 people are employed.
Many who turned out to protest wore union jackets, and local unions have also called for a strike day in solidarity with Audi workers.
Protesters emphasized, however, that grievances for working Belgians have been building up for years and the factory closure is only the latest in a slew of hardships.
"It was there a bit with COVID. Then it began with the war, and prices are getting higher from the materials and this makes it only more difficult for normal working people to buy, for example, a car. On the other hand, the demand is lower than before because of this reason, and this is something to think about. This is our signal to the government," said Alen, a protest organizer who wore the jacket of the General Confederation of Liberal Trade Unions of Belgium (ACLVB or CGSLB).
The situation is further complicated by the Russia-Ukraine crisis, with some protesters in Belgium noting that the influx of refugees is affecting local employment.
"All these issues, including the Russia-Ukraine crisis and the economic situation, are detrimental. Additionally, many workers are from Ukraine. The war benefits no one," said Pierre, a protester.
Belgian media have reported an increase in bankruptcies within the manufacturing sector as companies struggle to keep up with technological advancements. There are calls for the government to implement policies that improve workers' skills and protect high-quality employment and industry investment, avoiding the loss of European manufacturing.
"We hope to send a clear message that manufacturing in Europe is declining. Manufacturing must be sustained. Europe or any country should not rely solely on social welfare. Manufacturing has been moving outside Europe, and European politicians have not taken action," said Frank, an Audi factory employee.
Audi has announced that its Brussels factory will be reorganized in July this year. The facility has halted operations since September.
Thousands protest, unions call for strike amid Audi factory closure in Brussels
