Skills Competition 2007

Over its 50 year history, WorldSkills (formerly known as the "Skill Olympics") has come to symbolize the pinnacle of excellence in vocational training. Every two years hundreds of young skilled people, accompanied by their teachers and trainers, gather together from around the world to compete before the public in the skills of their various trades and test themselves against demanding international standards. They represent the best of their peers drawn from regional and national skill competitions held currently in over 45 countries/regions.

The experience and results of all the competitions provide valuable feedback both to the individuals and the systems and enterprises in which they are being trained. For some it is recognition for outstanding achievement, while for others it provides the motivation and knowledge to aspire to higher standards. For the onlookers it is a revealing experience to see highly competent young trades people in action. The competitions are particularly effective in the context of providing positive career role models for school aged youngsters.

The 39th WorldSkills competitions will be held in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan from 14th - 21st November 2007. Preparation is well underway. Over the four days of competition, more than 850 young people drawn from over 48 member countries/regions will test themselves against tough international standards in 47 key skills and technologies. The ultimate prizes will be gold, silver and bronze medals. Also, for the first time in history, the WorldSkills Competition and the International Abilympics will take place together under the banner “International Skills Festival for All, Japan 2007".



Shizuoka Prefecture, the site of the event, promotes universal design and environmental accessibility. At the same time, it has a wide range of industries – from transportation equipment and semiconductor industries to bamboo crafts and other traditional goods. The area – home of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay – is rich in natural beauty and there are many time-honored hot springs resorts in Shizuoka, mainly on the Izu Peninsula. Everyone who participates in ISF2007 will enjoy the natural beauty of the venue and its surroundings.

For a detailed description of Shizuoka visit http://www.skillsfestival2007.or.jp/en/location/index.html.

Official Website – WorldSkills Competition 2007