The "SkillsLatvia 2026" contest recently held its semifinals, which took place from January 13 to February 26 at 13 vocational education institutions and two sector companies throughout Latvia. A total of 251 participants, including 78 girls and 173 boys, showcased their skills in competitions across 20 specific skill areas such as creative arts, information and communication technology, manufacturing technology, social services, construction technologies, and logistics. The semifinals served to identify the most proficient candidates, with more than 130 specialists moving on to the finals.

The evaluation process during the semifinals involved 146 educators and 20 industry experts, who developed the tasks and assessed the participants' performances. Scoring was based on an international evaluation system commonly used in prestigious skill competitions like "EuroSkills" and "WorldSkills", ensuring that the judging criteria were standardized and globally recognized. This approach not only helps in maintaining the quality of the competition but also prepares participants for the international stages they may encounter.

Support for the semifinals was provided by 13 vocational education institutions, reflecting a broad commitment to fostering skills development among the youth in Latvia. The successful organization of this event emphasizes the importance of vocational training and skill competitions in building a workforce that meets industry needs, ultimately contributing to the growth of the Latvian economy. As the finalists prepare for the upcoming challenges, their experiences will be crucial in shaping their professional futures and enhancing their appeal in the job market.