From September 12 to 15, 2023, the highly anticipated BRICS Future Skills Challenge Grand Final was successfully held in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event was not only a competition of skills but also a vibrant exchange of knowledge and ideas. Alongside the competition, four expert panel discussions were successfully organized, covering key topics including energy, health, water resources, and future skills development. Nearly 300 participants—including experts, scholars, business representatives, educators, and contestants—from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, as well as African nations such as Zimbabwe and Zambia, took part in the discussions.
At the “Innovative Solutions in the Energy Sector of BRICS Countries” panel, experts focused on addressing the challenges of global energy transition. They shared the latest research achievements and best practices in renewable energy development, energy efficiency, and energy storage technologies. The discussion highlighted the large-scale application potential of solar, wind, and hydro power across BRICS countries, and explored how technological innovation and policy guidance can jointly promote sustainable development in the energy sector, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and enhance energy security and green growth within the BRICS framework.
The “Health Innovation Solutions in BRICS Countries” session centered on improving public health, optimizing healthcare resource allocation, and tackling global public health challenges. Participants explored the application of digital health technologies—such as telemedicine and AI-assisted diagnostics—discussing how to overcome geographical barriers and expand access to quality healthcare. The discussion also delved into the integration of traditional and modern medicine, aiming to unlock the unique value of traditional practices in disease prevention and treatment, thereby bringing renewed vitality to the development of healthcare in BRICS countries.
At the “Innovative Approaches to Water Resource Challenges in BRICS Countries” panel, in response to increasing water scarcity and pollution issues, experts shared innovative technologies and practical case studies in water resource management, wastewater treatment, and seawater desalination. Topics included how to utilize advanced information technologies for precise monitoring and efficient allocation of water resources, the promotion of water-saving technologies and practices, and the pursuit of sustainable solutions to ensure water security and ecological sustainability across BRICS nations.
The “Future Skills Development Landscape in BRICS Countries” panel addressed the evolving demands of the future labor market and how to cultivate a high-quality skilled workforce suited to emerging industries. Experts analyzed the impact of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and the Internet of Things on professional skillsets. Discussions focused on how to reform education systems and innovate vocational training mechanisms to enhance the employability and innovation capacity of the younger generation in BRICS countries, thereby building a strong foundation of talent to support economic and social development.
These four expert panels provided a vital platform for exchange and cooperation among BRICS countries in key sectors. They facilitated knowledge-sharing and mutual learning in technologies, experiences, and development philosophies. Participants expressed their commitment to taking this opportunity to further strengthen collaboration, jointly promote innovation in energy, health, water resources, and talent development, and contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals.
The successful conclusion of the BRICS Future Skills Challenge and its concurrent expert panels not only enhanced vocational skill levels across participating nations, but also injected new momentum into multi-sectoral collaboration among BRICS countries. This has significant implications for advancing development both within the BRICS bloc and around the globe.
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