On 15 July, the “Young Craftsmen: Mastering AI, Crafting the Future” Youth Skills Camp was officially launched. Guided by the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Human Resources and Social Security and hosted by the Shanghai Employment Promotion Center, the event commemorated the 10th World Youth Skills Day and contributed to building public engagement ahead of the 48th WorldSkills Competition, to be held in Shanghai in 2026. From 15 to 17 July, over 60 young participants engaged in immersive learning across three major skill domains. Through three days of intensive hands-on activities and in-depth exploration, they were introduced to cutting-edge industries, discovered emerging professions, and witnessed the transformative power of skills.

Digital Security Engineer: exploring technology with intelligence and skills

During the three-day “Smart Explorers at Tech Giants” Skills Camp, young participants transformed into “digital agents,” gaining firsthand experience with essential competencies for the digital age. Their journey began at Fanbook, where they uncovered the secrets behind big data recommendations and learned how algorithms anticipate user needs. At Bilibili, they delved into the inner workings and distinctive culture of one of China’s most influential content platforms. Later, at Dewu, they discovered how technology enables product authentication and experienced the craft of a professional fashion authenticator.

The program also included a visit to the WorldSkills China Cybersecurity Training Base, where students explored drone applications in security. During a hands-on workshop at a new media training studio, they practiced livestream hosting, analyzed viral short-form video strategies, and acquired filming and editing techniques. This journey opened doors to the digital security and internet industries and planted seeds for future career aspirations.

Biopharmaceutical Researcher: applying skills to safeguard health and navigate the microscopic world

A group of 22 students became junior researchers as they embarked on a three-day biopharmaceutical journey bridging traditional Chinese and modern Western medicine. Their first stop was a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) training lab, where they learned the names and functions of Chinese herbs, practiced using a dengcheng—a traditional Chinese balance scale—and crafted aromatic sachets to refresh the mind and repel mosquitoes.

At the Zhangjiang Antibody Drug Training Platform and the Shanghai Pharmaceutical School, students visited cell banks and cell culture labs. They operated precision instruments, prepared reagents, identified bacterial strains, measured protein concentrations, and formulated oral solutions—gaining an appreciation for the spirit of craftsmanship at the microscopic level.

On the final day, participants used butterfly pea flowers to make hydrating gels, studied human anatomy and basic first aid, and practiced medication dispensing in a simulated pharmacy. “I learned so many lab skills and developed stronger health awareness. I really hope I can come back again,” said one of the students.

Sustainable Fashion Designer: breathing new life into denim with creativity

The “Sustainable Fashion Designer” Skills Camp began with a lesson on denim fabric and techniques for its upcycling. Participants sketched their own designs and incorporated creative elements such as lace and bold color-blocking.

During the hands-on workshop the following day, the young designers immersed themselves in pattern drafting, cutting, ironing, sewing, and seam ripping. “I want to add some floral patterns to my skirt to make it cuter!” “Let’s roll up the pant legs and add some pearl buttons for flair.”

On the final day, the revamped denim pieces took center stage. From skirts and vests to sleeveless tops with ethnic flair, students proudly walked the runway wearing their own creations.

“I feel so accomplished! I don’t want to take it off!” one participant exclaimed. Beyond learning fashion design and garment-making skills, these students put environmental consciousness into practice and walked away with stylish, self-made pieces to call their own.