More than 60 teams competing at the 48th WorldSkills Competition visited their partner schools on Sept 22, the competition's opening day.

The visits were part of One School One Member, a cultural exchange program whose predecessor was launched in 2007. Schools and WorldSkills members were paired on Feb 4, giving them time to exchange messages and presentations before meeting in person.

At Tongji University, members of the United States team used virtual reality to explore a simulated water treatment plant. The training system recreates a real-world water treatment plant and its equipment, allowing users to practice different stages of the water treatment process.

For competitor James Cahill, the experience showed how technology can enhance technical training, making it more engaging and intuitive.

Technology was a common thread throughout the visits. At Shanghai Urban Construction Vocational College, the Luxembourg team observed robots used in intelligent construction, including bricklaying, inspection, and 3D printing. At Shanghai City Science and Technology School, Zambia's delegation watched students operate industrial robots and precision machining equipment, while drone demonstrations and student-made 3D-printed works showcased creative applications of emerging technologies.

The exchanges also highlighted how traditional skills are being reimagined for a new generation. At Shanghai Xingjian College, the delegation from the United Kingdom watched a lion dance, dancing robots, and robotic dogs. They then added beads and tassels to 3D-printed pendants featuring AI-generated designs that combined British castles with Chinese cloud motifs.

Cultural experiences offered another way for competitors to connect. Members of the Austrian delegation tried Chinese paper cutting and baduanjin, a traditional Chinese fitness routine, while the Malaysia delegation explored traditional skills including ancient-book restoration and stele rubbing.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, WorldSkills Shanghai 2026