Vocational skills contest in Chongqing showcases China's light industry innovation

The light industry track final of the World Vocational College Skills Competition 2026 was held from Sept. 24 to 27 at Chongqing Business Vocational College, drawing more than 210 contestants in 55 teams from 26 provincial-level regions across China.

The competition covered a range of light industry sectors, including furniture, leather, printing and cosmetics.

The light industry track final of the World Vocational College Skills Competition 2026 takes place in Chongqing, Sept. 24-27, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Under a "three self-determined" format, contestants chose their own project titles, designed their project content and selected the equipment they would use. The competition tested their skills in product development, process optimization, quality inspection and digital management.

After three days of competition, judges presented five gold, 10 silver and 15 bronze awards.

Teams from Chongqing Chemical Industry Vocational College, Guangxi Eco-Engineering Vocational & Technical College, Chongqing Business Vocational College, Hubei Ecology Polytechnic College and Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College each won gold.

The light industry track final of the World Vocational College Skills Competition 2026 takes place in Chongqing, Sept. 24-27, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

The chief judge noted that the contestants demonstrated strong technical skills and professional competence while keeping pace with industry trends, and incorporated technologies such as artificial intelligence into their practical work.

The competition has promoted industry-education integration and advanced teaching reform, the chief judge said, calling on vocational colleges to deepen cooperation with enterprises and develop talent by combining workplace needs, curricula, skills competitions and vocational certificates.

The light industry track final of the World Vocational College Skills Competition 2026 takes place in Chongqing, Sept. 24-27, 2026. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Since its upgrade in 2024, the World Vocational College Skills Competition has become an important platform for showcasing vocational skills and promoting the integration of industry and education.

Chongqing has hosted the light industry track for two consecutive years, highlighting the city's capacity to host major vocational education events.