LG поддерживает молодёжь с ограниченными возможностями на Global IT Challenge в Маниле

The Global IT Challenge (GITC) 2024 for youth with disabilities, co-organized with LG Electronics, has concluded in Manila, Philippines. Held from November 3 to 8, it brought together 104 participants from 16 countries who competed in six IT disciplines.

After preliminary qualifying stages, the finalists tested their skills in a variety of digital challenges. The eTool task assessed the ability to create presentation slides and manage spreadsheets; the eLifeMap task assessed online search and image retrieval skills; the eContent task assessed video editing and production capabilities; and in eCreative, participants developed a program for self-driving cars and proposed technological concepts aimed at improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. This year, the GITC competition also featured a new discipline – proficiency in generative artificial intelligence. It allowed participants to demonstrate the increasingly sought-after skills of adaptability and creativity in the IT field.

The winner of GITC 2024, Zulzahira Binti Mod Anwar from Malaysia, excelled in several categories and expressed her pride in competing side by side with peers who share her aspirations and advocate for the establishment of friendly relations around the world.

The Global IT Challenge was created in 2011 to help youth with disabilities become more experienced in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) and to support them in developing the confidence and practical tools needed for full participation in society. Over 13 years, the competition has involved approximately 5,000 young participants from 40 countries, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the IT field and related areas. For example, a 2014 participant with visual impairments, Ayko Kumaniwong, currently heads a service center for people with disabilities in Laos, where he implements developments in the field of accessible technologies, including software for Braille.

In accordance with LG's "Better Life for All" concept (Better Life for All), GITC reflects the company's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. LG is also actively working to improve the accessibility of its services and products through initiatives such as the inclusive LG Comfort Kit accessory set, Braille stickers, and sign language customer service centers.

"The Global IT Challenge has been a starting point for nearly 5,000 young people with disabilities, allowing them to overcome barriers and become competitive IT professionals," said Yoon Dae-sik, Senior Vice President of External Relations at LG Electronics. "We remain committed to supporting people with disabilities as they improve their skills and gain self-confidence, helping them realize their dreams in the field of information technology."

Through GITC and similar initiatives, LG continues to champion the principle of inclusivity and accessibility, providing young people with disabilities with the tools and support they need to live full lives in a technology-driven world.

Photos courtesy of LG's press service.