The WSZA National Competition, National Conference, and Career Festival is a biennial (every two years) skills championship where top youth and students from across South Africa compete in a wide range of skill categories covering trades, technical and technology-driven competencies. Competitors come from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, universities of technology, and training institutions.
Purpose
Identify and reward excellence in vocational and artisan skills. Promote skills development as real career pathways. Select the best performers to represent South Africa on the global WorldSkills stage at the international competition.

Held alongside the national competition, the WSZA Conference is a multi-day professional gathering for policymakers, educators, industry leaders, TVET college representatives, employers, and other stakeholders in the skills ecosystem.
Purpose
Discuss strategic directions and policy in skills development. Build partnerships between education, government, and industry. Share insights on improving TVET quality, employer alignment, and labour market relevance.
Who attends
All artisan related stakeholders which includes Government officials, SETA leaders, TVET and CET college heads. Industry partners, training providers, and sector experts. The conference also often serves as a platform for launching new strategies (such as the National Apprenticeship and Artisan Development Strategy) and aligning stakeholder visions for future skills.

WorldSkills South Africa organises Career Exhibitions / Artisan Career Festivals in parallel with the national competition. These events are designed specifically for learners (especially high school learners), unemployed youth, parents, and educators. Exhibitors shall facilitate a “Try-a-Skill” session during the exhibition.
Purpose
Showcase the variety and opportunities of vocational and artisanal careers. Provide career guidance, information, and pathways into training and employment. Reduce the stigma around trade and technical occupations by highlighting their value and potential.

Click the icon to register to attend the WorldSkills National conference.