UNESCO-UNEVOC has opened applications for the Skills in Action Photo Competition 2026, inviting amateur and professional photographers from around the world to showcase how technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is transforming lives through compelling visual storytelling. The global competition aims to highlight the role of skills development in preparing young people for employment, innovation and sustainable development.
The competition is open to anyone aged 18 years or older who owns the copyright to the photographs they submit. Participants are encouraged to capture authentic moments that demonstrate the positive impact of vocational education and practical skills training in communities, workplaces and learning institutions.
This year's competition focuses on four key themes: equity and inclusion, green skills and sustainability, digital transformation, and innovation and excellence. Through these categories, UNESCO-UNEVOC hopes to showcase how TVET is creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds while equipping them with skills needed in rapidly evolving industries.
"The UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition celebrates the transformative role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in preparing young people with the skills needed for the future."
Participants may submit up to four photographs, with one entry permitted for each competition category. Every submission must include a title, a brief description of no more than 75 words, and information on where and when the photograph was taken. Images must be submitted in JPEG format, although RAW or TIFF versions are encouraged to support image quality. Minor edits are allowed, provided they are disclosed during submission.
The competition offers cash prizes to the top three entries, with the first-place winner receiving US$750, the second-place winner US$500, and the third-place winner US$350. In addition to monetary awards, winners will receive official certificates, have their work featured on UNESCO-UNEVOC's Flickr platform, and gain international exposure through the organization's global communication channels.
Beyond the prizes, the competition provides photographers with an opportunity to contribute to a broader conversation about the importance of vocational education in addressing unemployment, supporting entrepreneurship and advancing sustainable economic growth. Selected photographs may also be used in future UNESCO-UNEVOC publications, campaigns and promotional materials, further extending their global reach.
The initiative comes at a time when many countries are increasing investment in technical and vocational education to address skills shortages across industries. By highlighting real-life examples of young people learning practical skills and entering the workforce, UNESCO hopes to inspire greater appreciation for vocational education as a pathway to decent work and inclusive development.
Photographers are encouraged to produce original, high-quality images that communicate compelling stories rather than simply documenting activities. Entries will be judged based on their relevance to the competition themes, originality, creativity and effectiveness in conveying the importance of skills development.
Applications for the UNESCO-UNEVOC Skills in Action Photo Competition 2026 are open until 31 August 2026. Individuals interested in participating can submit their photographs electronically following the official competition guidelines.