Twenty-nine young South Africans represented the country at the 48th WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai, China, where they competed alongside some of the world’s best young skilled professionals.
The competition, held from 22 to 27 September 2026, brought together young people, industry leaders, educators and government representatives from across the globe to promote excellence in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Team South Africa competed in 27 skills categories, including Mechatronics, Aircraft Maintenance, Plumbing and Heating, Refrigeration, Construction and Water Technology.
The South African delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube. She was accompanied by the Department of Higher Education and Training Director-General, Dr Nkosinathi Sishi, and National Skills Fund Acting Chief Executive Officer Melissa Erra.
This year’s WorldSkills competition attracted a record 1,385 competitors from 68 countries and regions, highlighting the growing global demand for technical and vocational skills.
The event provides young professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their technical knowledge, innovation, precision and problem-solving abilities while allowing participating countries to exchange ideas and strengthen skills development systems.
South Africa’s journey to the international competition began with the WorldSkills South Africa Regional Heats and National Competition held in March 2026. The national competition selected the country’s top young skilled professionals to represent South Africa on the world stage.
Reflecting on the competition, Dube-Ncube praised the achievements of Team South Africa and highlighted Matthew Bowen’s outstanding performance. Bowen won a silver medal in the Aircraft Maintenance category and was recognised as South Africa’s Best of Nation competitor.
The Deputy Minister said Bowen’s success demonstrates the opportunities available to young people who pursue technical and vocational training through South Africa’s skills development system.
She also stressed the important role that TVET colleges play in preparing young people for the changing labour market. Dube-Ncube pointed to uMgungundlovu TVET College’s electrical engineering and solar photovoltaic installation programmes as examples of training that supports the country’s growing demand for energy-related skills.
She encouraged learners and parents to view TVET colleges as a valuable pathway to employment, entrepreneurship and economic participation rather than seeing them as a second choice to university education.
Government says strengthening technical and vocational education remains a key priority as South Africa works to equip young people with practical skills needed to support economic growth, infrastructure development and job creation.
