The Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC) held a Plaque Unveiling Ceremony for WorldSkills Training Bases in “Painting and Decorating” and “Plumbing and Heating” on 18 March. Ir Prof. Thomas HO, Chairman of the CIC, Ir Albert CHENG, Executive Director of the CIC, along with industry leaders and DEVB Representative, attended the ceremony to witness this historic occasion.

Ir Prof HO emphasised the importance of a good training environment with well-equipped facilities for the training of the WorldSkills competitors. HKIC has set up training bases to provide comprehensive equipment, enabling competitors to enhance their skills through practical experience and excel in the WorldSkills Competition. Ir CHENG also pointed out that the training base was established with reference to past WorldSkills Competitions and Mainland training facilities. Additionally, competition-designated tools specified for the WorldSkills event have been acquired to ensure that participants can train in the most realistic simulated environment, thereby increasing their chances of winning.

Dr. Stewart WAN, Assistant Director of HKIC, conducted a chit-chat session with Ivan and Fan, competitors in the WorldSkills Competition 2024 for “Plumbing and Heating” and “Painting and Decorating” respectively. Ivan mentioned that the competition requirements differ from basic craftsmanship, as the scope of the competition is broader. More than a year of training and participation in the competition have also allowed him to meet friends from different places. Fan highly recommended young people to participate in the WorldSkills Competition as it is a valuable and eye-opening experience.

Following the ceremony, the guests toured the two training bases, where the experts and the competitors provided introductions and demonstrations, showcasing the equipment, competition modes and modules of the WorldSkills Competition.

The WorldSkills Hong Kong Competition will be held in May. A Badge Pinning Ceremony was conducted for the participants in “Plumbing and Heating”, as well as “Painting and Decorating”, with Ivan and Fan pinning badges on them, progressing on the professional spirit of craftsmanship, and wishing them success in the WorldSkills Hong Kong Competition and WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.