Lyon, France - September 10, 2024

Young Chinese vocational specialists are aiming to extend their championship streaks at the 47th WorldSkills Competition (WSC), which officially commenced Tuesday evening with an opening ceremony at the LDLC Arena near the city of Lyon, France.

Formerly known as the International Vocational Training Organization, WorldSkills is an international charity that organizes national championships for vocational skills. Every two years, the organization hosts a competition, attracting competitors from around the world.

This year's competition is scheduled to run from Sept. 11 to 14, with the closing ceremony on Sept. 15. The event will bring together approximately 1,400 participants from nearly 70 countries and regions, competing in 59 skill categories.

Competition categories are divided into six major sectors: Creative Arts and Fashion, Information and Communication Technology, Construction and Building Technology, Manufacturing and Engineering Technology, Transportation and Logistics, and Social and Personal Services.

China has sent a contingent of 68 competitors, comprising 58 men and 10 women, with an average age of 22. They will participate in contests in all the skill categories, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China.

WorldSkills was born out of the ruins of the Second World War, seeking to give young people opportunities to excel in professional fields with the goal of raising "the profile and recognition of skilled people." The competition now serves as a platform for member countries or regions to showcase and exchange vocational skills at an advanced level.

Shotlist:
Lyon, France - Sept 10, 2024:
1. Screen reading "welcome to the opening ceremony";
2. Opening ceremony in progress;
3. Screen showing Chinese national flag;
4. Chinese contestants at opening ceremony;
5. Various of competition in progress; Chinese contestants;
6. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Lu Yanlin, Chinese contestant:
"Having been battle-tested, we are confident that we can represent our country and succeed in this competition.";
7. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Zhai Tao, assistant, China delegation, 47th WorldSkills Competition (WSC) (partially overlaid with shot 8/ending with shot 9):
"For example, in CNC milling operation, we have won the gold medal for four consecutive editions. We have also snatched gold medals in welding, masonry, and fashion technology for three editions. I believe that every contestant who showcases their skills and youthful vigor on the WSC stage is exceptional.";
[SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]
8. Various of Chinese contestants during competition;
[SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE]
9. Various of Chinese contestants;
10. Venue of WSC.

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