WorldSkills 2017 kicks off in UAE capital

WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017, the world championships of vocational skills, has officially opened in the capital of the UAE.

The opening ceremony of WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017 at the du Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on Oct 14, 2017. [Photo: WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017]

During the event this year, 1,300 competitors from the world will compete to be the best in their chosen skills. There will be competitions in 51 different skills ranging from floristry to bricklaying, aircraft maintenance to mobile robotics.

The event, scheduled from Oct. 15 to 19, began with a spectacular opening ceremony at the du Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The ceremony included a parade, during which all the teams walked through the arena. 

Simon Bartley, president of WorldSkills International, addressed the ceremony, saying that "WorldSkills is fast becoming the 'must-be-at event' to debate and shape skills around the world."

He also urged competitors to remember the help of their families and experts that assist them to this level, and that they "are all champions" who should share their WorldSkills stories with others in their home nations.

The Chinese delegation includes 52 contestants, 44 males and 8 females with average age of less than 21 years old, who will take part in 47 competitions in six categories, namely transportation and logistics, structure and building technology, manufacturing and engineering technology, information and communications technology, creative art and fashion as well as social and personal services.

Members of the WorldSkills International voted Friday that the 46th WorldSkills Competition would be held in the Chinese city of Shanghai in 2021.