WorldSkills fires up young minds
abu dhabi — “Stone Age didn’t end because the world ran out of stones but because some resources came after that … oil and natural resources. Now we have that, but oil will run out in 20-30 years. However, the world is changing and moving to new technologies like electric cars. Technical education is important,” Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training director-general Mubarak Saeed Al Shamsi said, as he highlighted the importance of hosting WorldSkills in Abu Dhabi.
From today till Wednesday, thousands of young competitors from across the world will showcase technical abilities and prove they are best in their skill of choice at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
The 44th edition of the competition is being held for the first time in the region under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
And on Saturday, a first-of-its kind Youth Forum was opened where participants will debate and discuss different topics.
Shamma bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, said: “We aspire to have a clear imprint in the world around us and participate in efforts to build a better tomorrow.”
The recommendations from the forum will be presented before the ministers who will be visiting the WorldSkills.
Meanwhile, EmiratesSkills president Ali Al Marzouqi said more number of competitors from the UAE are participating compared to previous edition. He noted the increase in number of women participants.
Proud to innovate Competition brings out the best in us, they say. It’s how minds are nudged to strive for excellence and dominance. What is the purpose of education if it doesn’t lead to innovation or realisation of ideas? As WorldSkills makes its debut in the region, it chose to do so in the UAE, which is a remarkable feat anyway. It would reinforce UAE’s position as a hub for innovation and excellence. Education sector here is getting wonderful opportunities, and we all should be proud of it.
There are six Emirati women participants in six areas of competitions, whereas it was just four in 2015.” Ali Al Marzouqi, EmiratesSkills president
“We have 34 competitors participating in 31 skills from the UAE,” Al Marzouqi said.
In 2015, at Sao Paulo, Brazil, there were 27 competitors vying in 23 skills set. “Every year we have national competitions and try to introduce new areas by working with various sectors to make sure participation in some of the 51 competitions which we are holding,” he added. There are six Emirati women participants in six areas of competitions, whereas it was just four in 2015.
“The participants are competing in areas of refrigeration and airconditioning — sectors which are not known to have women in them. Others are in 3D, jewellery ... (etc).” Al Marzouqi said.
WorldSkills International president Simon Bartley said: “For a successful world, economy and business, you need a blend of academic and vocationally trained individuals. Vocational skills have always been important but the governments forgot that.”
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com