A new initiative, the Skills CoLab, will premiere at WorldSkills Conference 2026 as a dedicated platform to showcase innovative projects in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), exchange practical experience, and connect with peers from around the world.
Inspired by marketplace formats, the Skills CoLab moves beyond the traditional conference model to offer an interactive, hands-on networking experience. Participants will engage directly with selected project representatives through structured, pre-scheduled one-to-one or small-group consultations, creating a dynamic environment for exchange and collaboration.
Supported by professional facilitation, selected project representatives will showcase their initiatives in parallel 20 to 30-minute consultation sessions with Conference participants, ensuring smooth coordination, clear navigation, and maximum networking value.
The Skills CoLab is designed to highlight innovative projects from a wide range of organizations involved in skills development and TVET. Its aim is to generate tangible outcomes for both presenters and participants, from knowledge exchange and new collaborations to connections with potential partners and donors to support project scaling and implementation.
The call for submissions for the Skills CoLab at WorldSkills Conference 2026 is now open. We are seeking innovative projects that contribute to shaping a skills-driven future through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and scalable solutions.
Interested? Visit the Skills CoLab page and apply before 17 April 2026.
WorldSkills Conference 2026 will unite leading voices from across the global skills landscape – including policymakers and government representatives, industry, education, and youth. Taking place alongside the world’s largest skills competition, WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, the Conference will be held from 23 to 25 September 2026 under the banner “Shaping a Skills-Driven Future”.
Register for WorldSkills Conference 2026 for a rare opportunity to witness the world’s best skilled young people, benchmark against national TVET systems, network with leading change-makers in skills development, and gain fresh insights and best practice from around the globe.
Learn more about the programme of WorldSkills Conference 2026.