Chongqing - Stefan Praschl, Chair of the Competition Commission at WorldSkills International, shared insights into the evolving vocational training landscape at the upcoming Second "Belt and Road" International Skills Competition. During an exclusive interview with Bridging News on April 27, Praschl highlighted the importance of integrating advanced technologies into the competition framework.

The event is scheduled for June in Chongqing to strengthen ties among Belt and Road nations. It will showcase 18 competitions, including in areas like digital construction, floral design, and new energy automotive technology.

Praschl recently visited local training facilities and expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Chongqing’s educators and engaging with former competition participants. He stressed the competition's role as a platform for sharing expert knowledge and best practices in vocational training.

One of the key topics discussed was the influence of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, on the workforce. “We need to think about incorporating these future technologies into our skills competitions," Praschl noted, highlighting the need for innovation in vocational education.

Stefan Praschl, Chair of the Competition Commission at WorldSkills International. (Photo/Chen Zhan)

Moreover, Praschl is eager to increase African involvement through the WorldSkills Africa initiative and views the Belt and Road Initiative as an opportunity to expand global engagement and enhance the competition's impact.

(Ma Manlin, as an intern, also contributed to this report.)