As global economies evolve, vocational skills are gaining the spotlight like never before. International competitions like WorldSkills provide young people with a prestigious platform to demonstrate their expertise and measure their skills against global standards. With WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 approaching, India’s training institutions are intensifying their efforts to prepare candidates for this global challenge. This discussion explores the training ecosystem at Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF), an institution known for its commitment to technical excellence.
In this engaging panel discussion, Dr. Madhuri Dubey, Founder-Director of NSN, speaks with experienced faculty and experts from NTTF to understand the growing importance of global skill competitions, such as WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
The conversation highlights how WorldSkills promotes vocational excellence while showcasing NTTF’s role in mentoring and training students for both national and international standards. The panel offers valuable insights into training strategies, the competition journey, and how these platforms unlock new opportunities for Indian youth in the skill development ecosystem.
The panelists included:
- Mr. Prashanth AK – Faculty, School of Postgraduate Studies, NTTF
- Ms. Geethanjali G – Faculty, School of Postgraduate Studies, NTTF
- Mr. Shebi – Assistant Manager – Training, NTTF
- Mr. Nagesh S A – Deputy Manager – Training, NTTF
Below are a few excerpts from our conversation. You can watch the full video on our YouTube channel.
Q. Please share your views on the role of WorldSkills as a global platform in advancing vocational and technical education in India?
Mr. Prashanth AK: To understand the significance of WorldSkills, it’s important to look at its origins. WorldSkills started when several European countries were trying to rebuild their economies from the ground up. They realized that developing skills was essential for economic revival, and one effective way to encourage skill development was through competitions. What began as a small contest among vocational institutions eventually grew into a pan-European event, and over time, an international movement.
Today, in 2025, WorldSkills has grown into a massive global platform, often referred to as the “Olympics of Skills.” Over 75 countries now participate, making it a celebration of vocational excellence worldwide.
However, WorldSkills is not just about medals or winning. Its core purpose is to benchmark competencies. It allows countries to evaluate where they stand in terms of skill standards, learn from others, and adopt best practices. This exchange of ideas and practices makes WorldSkills a powerful tool for uplifting training quality and aligning with global standards.
Q. What has led to the growing importance of WorldSkills, and why is it considered critical in the present global context?
Ms. Geethanjali G: WorldSkills provides a unique platform for young individuals to demonstrate their capabilities at a global level. With the age limit being just 22, it encourages students at an early stage to showcase their skills and potential. I’ve observed a shift in mindset, many students are now showing interest in participating because they see this as more than just a competition; it is an opportunity to prove themselves. It is not only academics or sports where they can shine, this platform tells them that they can be stars in skilled trades too. That’s why it is gaining importance.
Ms. Shebi: International competitions like WorldSkills play a significant role in improving the quality of technical education. They help establish global benchmarks and inspire institutions and individuals to strive for higher standards. Most importantly, these events bring greater visibility and respect to vocational careers, encouraging more young people to pursue them confidently. The exposure gained here leads to personal growth and professional recognition.
Mr. Nagesh S. A.: WorldSkills is a global stage where young talent can demonstrate their proficiency across a wide range of vocational skills. It aligns closely with the evolving demands of modern industries. Participation in such competitions not only highlights emerging skills but also ensures that young professionals are industry-ready. It offers them international recognition and opens up better employment opportunities. By bridging the gap between talent and global standards, WorldSkills plays a vital role in shaping future-ready professionals.
Q. What is the training framework and process followed to identify and prepare candidates for WorldSkills competitions?
Mr. Prashant A K: In previous years, participation in World Skills competitions was more informal and reactive, competitors would register and, upon selection at some level, request training support. This approach was more out of interest than strategic effort.
However, this year marks a significant shift to a much more aggressive and structured training approach. Recognizing the immense value of having young participants (often 18–19 years old) represent the country on an international platform, the organization aims to provide this opportunity to all deserving candidates.
To do this, they have:
- Established a dedicated World Skills Cell.
- Compiled a list of subject matter experts who serve as trainers, with two experts assigned for each skill category.
- Designated specific centers equipped with the necessary infrastructure and knowledge for World Skills training.
- Developed a rigorous selection process involving multiple internal competitions to ensure unbiased, merit-based selection:
- Intra-unit (within each center) competitions.
- Inter-unit (between centers) competitions, planned to be held at key locations such as Bangalore Training Center or premier centers.
- Emphasized the importance of candidates being physically fit and psychologically robust, prepared to endure the tough training grind.
- Set clear expectations that candidates must prove their eligibility and commitment through these competitive stages.
- Committed to continuous improvement by welcoming feedback and modifications to this new structure, as this is their first year implementing it formally.
This structured approach aims not only to train the best candidates but also to build a pipeline of skilled youth who have a competitive edge and the experience of representing India internationally.
Q. What are the different kinds of skills that are covered under WorldSkills, and how are they categorized?
Mr. Nagesh S A: At WorldSkills, candidates participate in a wide range of skill areas. These are broadly categorized into sectors such as
- Manufacturing and Engineering Technology
- Construction and Building Technology
- Information and Communication Technology
- Social and Personal Services
- Creative Arts and Fashion
- Transportation and Logistics
The selection of specific skills for participation often depends on the institution’s core strengths as well as prevailing market demand. For instance, institutions like NTTF, with their robust technical training infrastructure, tend to concentrate on high-demand skills such as CNC Turning, CNC Milling, Tool and Die Engineering, Additive Manufacturing, Electronics, and Mechatronics. These areas are especially relevant to industries like
The selection of specific skills for participation often depends on the institution’s core strengths as well as prevailing market demand. For instance, institutions like NTTF—with their robust technical training infrastructure—tend to concentrate on high-demand skills such as CNC Turning, CNC Milling, Tool and Die Engineering, Additive Manufacturing, Electronics, and Mechatronics. These areas are especially relevant to industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics.
Moreover, by aligning training programs with these in-demand skills, institutions like NTTF ensure that their candidates are well-prepared not just for WorldSkills competitions, but also for careers in advanced manufacturing. In contrast, regions with service-driven economies may shift focus to trades like Plumbing or Hairdressing, depending on local industry requirements. Ultimately, when training remains aligned with industry trends, institutions like NTTF not only stand out at WorldSkills but also contribute significantly to developing a future-ready workforce.
Q. Please share the journey of how a candidate prepares for the WorldSkills competition?
Ms. Geethanjali G: At NTTF, the journey of a student aspiring to participate in the WorldSkills competition begins with an internal competition. We have a dedicated WorldSkills Cell, and this year alone, we received around 1,200 registrations across eight selected skill areas.
Here’s how the training journey is:
1. Internal Competitions: Students first participate in internal skill-based competitions. Those who qualify begin focused training in their respective skill areas. This includes not just technical training, but also physical and mental preparation to ensure they’re ready for the challenges ahead.
2. Registration on NSDC Portal: Once the NSDC opens its portal for IndiaSkills, eligible students are guided to register for the national selection process.
3. Skill-Specific Training: Post-registration, students undergo more intensive, skill-specific training tailored to the WorldSkills technical standards.
4. Progression Through Competitions:
- Preliminary Round: The first round following internal selection.
- State-Level Competitions: Qualified candidates represent their institutions at the state level.
- Regional Competitions: Winners from states move on to compete regionally. India is divided into four regions – North, South, East, and West. For instance, the South region includes states like Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
- National-Level Competitions: The best candidates from each region (usually 12, sometimes more with wildcard entries) compete at the national level.
5. National Selections and Final Round:
National experts further train the top three candidates (gold, silver, and bronze winners) from each skill. These candidates compete in three more rounds, and based on their performance, the best among them earns the chance to represent India at WorldSkills 2026 in Shanghai, China.
This journey follows a structured and competitive path that ensures the final candidate becomes world-class in their skill and fully mentally and physically prepared for the global stage.
Also read: NTTF’s GET and DET Programs: Training Prospective Faculty for Industry-Driven Technical Education
Q. How does NTTF ensure alignment with international standards and benchmarks during the WorldSkills training process?
Ms. Shebi: At NTTF, the curriculum is designed in alignment with both industry requirements and WorldSkills standards. We continuously update our syllabus to reflect the latest trends and demands in the industry as well as any changes in the WorldSkills framework. This ensures our training remains relevant and globally competitive.
Our training approach emphasizes hands-on learning, with 70% of the sessions dedicated to practical exposure. This helps trainees build strong technical skills and prepares them to meet global standards and this is not just for competitions like WorldSkills, but also for real-world jobs.
When preparing candidates for skill competitions, we provide both in-house and external training to build their confidence and competence. NTTF regularly organizes internal competitions across its centers to simulate real competitive environments and motivate students to keep improving. NTTF continuously improves the quality of technical training to meet international standards, so our students are well-prepared to take on global opportunities and challenges.
Q. Is there anything else you would like to share?
Mr. Nagesh S A: Based on my experience of attending various skill competitions, I strongly feel that colleges should align their curriculum with WorldSkills standards. These competitions are designed in such a way that if a student is well-prepared, they become job-ready and industry-compliant. To achieve this, training must begin from the first year itself. From the second semester, we should begin identifying each student’s area of interest be it manufacturing, engineering technology, or any other skill. Once identified, we must start rigorous training in that area. By the time they reach their final year, they will not only be ready to participate in competitions but will also perform with confidence. I have seen students who may not win medals but return completely transformed, with greater confidence. Many even receive direct job offers from MNCs or go on to become entrepreneurs. That’s the real value of these competitions.
Ms. Geethanjali G: Skill-based training and competitions should be an integral part of college education. But, many colleges focus only on completing academic syllabus, without creating awareness about such life-changing opportunities. These competitions can redefine a student’s career and bring recognition to both the student and the institution. Colleges need to actively promote participation and provide support. While vocational training institutes emphasize skill-based learning, professional colleges like engineering institutions must also give it equal importance. It’s high time this shift happens across the board.
Ms. Shebi: Trainees must remain focused and committed to deepening their technical knowledge in their chosen skill area. They need to invest time in mastering technical inputs. The upcoming WorldSkills 2026 is an excellent platform for them to showcase their talents. This is a valuable opportunity for skilled individuals to shine on a global stage. It should be fully utilized to bring out their best potential.
Mr. Prashanth A K: I would like to say one key message: skills act as launchpads for careers. Young people must realize that acquiring strong skills can carry them through life, it’s a lifelong asset.
