On 15 November, the Final of the 3rd Shanghai Vocational Students Innovation and Creativity Competition was held in Shanghai. Organized by the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, the Competition features two major categories: the Technology Innovation Group and the Cultural Creativity Group. A dedicated track themed “Licensed Merchandise for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026” was introduced as a key component of the Cultural Creativity Group. The WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 mascots, Neng Neng and Qiao Qiao, were also present on site and, together with 32 shortlisted WorldSkills-themed projects selected through the preliminary and intermediate rounds, created a unique WorldSkills-inspired showcase.

Since its launch in September, this year’s competition has attracted 1,141 project submissions from students across 66 vocational institutions in Shanghai. As one of the core thematic tracks of the Cultural Creativity Group, the “Licensed Merchandise for the 48th WorldSkills Competition” category highlights the younger generation’s creative interpretations and fresh perspectives on WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

The projects cover two main design directions: illustrations and cultural-creative products. Using the logo of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 as a key element, the works creatively incorporate the mascots Neng Neng and Qiao Qiao, distinctive Shanghai cultural features, WorldSkills competition items, and skill-related elements through a diverse range of creative expressions. The submissions include items such as 3D calendars, tote bags, paper-cut fans, and temperature-sensitive mugs, combining both creativity and practicality. Many of the works also explore Shanghai’s intangible cultural heritage, traditional cuisine, and iconic architecture, achieving a sophisticated blend of skill elements and the city’s cultural essence.

In addition, a range of trendy creations, such as mascot-themed bracelets and blind-box collectibles, were also on display. These original designs generated strong visitor engagement and brought high visibility to the WorldSkills-themed booths, sparking interest from the wider public.

Notably, many of the participating institutions have long been the “cradles” of WorldSkills Champions. Students from these institutions noted that they first learned about the competition through their “champion classmates,” and expressed their hope to further promote the WorldSkills spirit through the products they designed themselves.

Outstanding works from this WorldSkills-themed track will be selected for development into official licensed merchandise for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 and will be available for sale both online and on site during the event. Through the Innovation and Creativity Competition, vocational students are turning their creative ideas into tangible products. By applying cultural and creative design, they help convey WorldSkills culture and contribute to building a platform that is co-created, widely shared, and actively driven by young people.

This WorldSkills-focused creative initiative showcases the achievements of vocational education and innovation in Shanghai. It also serves as an engaging and dynamic channel for amplifying the impact of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, fostering city-wide participation and building a welcoming and energetic atmosphere ahead of the global skills event.