Promoting the Spirit of Craftsman: Workers Recognized for Skills and Dedication
At the recent 2024 National May Day Labor Award and National Worker Pioneer Commendation Conference, 1,088 workers were honored with the National May Day Labor Medal. Among them, 380 industrial workers were recognized, comprising 40.3% of the total awardees. This proportion is 5.3 percentage points higher than the prescribed ratio, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of skilled workers in driving the country’s progress.
The recipients of the National May Day Labor Medal have showcased their ingenuity and dedication in pursuing their dreams. These workers have harnessed their skills to illuminate their lives and achieve milestones that highlight the value of their contributions. The increasing number of industrial workers receiving this prestigious award reflects the expanding platform for skilled talents to serve the nation.
Skills are regarded as the cornerstone of a robust country and a thriving industry. With over 200 million skilled professionals in China, including more than 60 million highly skilled individuals, the workforce is a key pillar supporting the nation’s manufacturing and innovation endeavors. From frontline workers mastering complex tasks to technical experts revolutionizing manufacturing processes, skilled talents play a vital role in advancing the economy and fostering new avenues of growth.
In response to the escalating demand for skilled workers, the government has implemented various policies and initiatives to nurture talent. Programs such as the “Skills China Action” Implementation Plan and the “14th Five-Year Plan” for Technical Education have laid the groundwork for building a skilled society. By investing in vocational education and training, China has established a vast network of vocational schools that annually produce millions of skilled professionals. Additionally, vocational skills competitions offer a platform for showcasing excellence and fostering healthy competition among skilled workers.
Despite the progress made in skill development, there remains a significant shortage of senior technicians in key manufacturing sectors. By 2025, it is estimated that China will face a talent gap of nearly 30 million individuals in critical fields, highlighting the pressing need for upskilling and training. To address this gap, there is a call to enhance vocational education, streamline policies to support skilled talent growth, and inspire workers to pursue excellence in their craft.
As the country strives to bridge the skills gap and cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals, promoting the spirit of the craftsman is essential. By championing the values of model workers, labor spirit, and craftsmanship, China aims to create a culture that honors and celebrates skills. This ethos seeks to instill a sense of pride, achievement, and fulfillment in skilled workers, attracting more young individuals to pursue careers that leverage their talents and contribute to the nation’s vision.