World Champions Crowned at Pearson’s Certiport 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist Competition

The world champions of this year's Pearson's Certiport Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship, (L2R) Liang Xinzhi, Macao, China, Microsoft PowerPoint™ (Office 2019) Reem El Shafii, Lebanon, Microsoft Word (Office 2019) Zhong Tin Kin, Macao, China, Microsoft Excel™ (Office 2019) Nguyen Mai Chi, Vietnam, Microsoft Excel™ (Microsoft 365 Apps) Sio Keng Nim, Macao, China, Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 Apps) Santiago Matteus Dardón Pinzón, Guatemala, Microsoft PowerPoint™ (Microsoft 365 Apps) GNW

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HOBOKEN, N.J., July 29, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L) today announced the winners of the Certiport 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship, a global competition that recognizes students from around the world using Microsoft Office. Now in its 24^th year, the championship highlights the value of Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications in preparing learners for academic and career success.

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This year’s event, held in Anaheim, CA, welcomed 135 finalists (ages 13–22) from 36 countries who qualified by passing Microsoft Word, Excel™, or PowerPoint™ certification exams, and won their respective country competitions. This year’s event, held in Anaheim, California, welcomed 135 finalists ages 13–22 from 36 countries.

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The global competition celebrates excellence in Microsoft Office, helping students build confidence and develop essential digital skills for the future. Through their participation, students gain valuable real-world experience, preparing them to succeed in an economy increasingly shaped by new technologies.

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The winners:

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Why it matters: “These students have not only earned a valuable credential, they have demonstrated the commitment, capability, and confidence needed to succeed in a fast-changing digital world. As certified Microsoft Office Specialists, they are building a strong foundation for academic achievement, career opportunity, and lifelong learning,” said Arthur Valentine, President of Assessment and Qualifications at Pearson. “Their initiative and adaptability show exactly the kind of future-ready talent employers need. By mastering essential digital skills, they are preparing to thrive in an AI-driven economy.”

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What Microsoft said: “The Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship celebrates more than technical excellence. It highlights the power of digital skills and certifications,” said Jeana Jorgensen, Corporate Vice President, Global Skilling, Microsoft. “The students who take part in this competition demonstrate that their talent, dedication, and certification can open doors. These opportunities will also extend far beyond the event, creating pathways for success in the workforce.”