LG hosts global IT competition for youth with disabilities in Manila

Participants pose for a photo at the 2024 Global IT Challenge for Youth with Disabilities in Manila. Courtesy of LG Electronics

SEOUL, November 08 (AJP) - LG Electronics concluded its six-day Global IT Challenge for disabled youth Friday in Manila, drawing 104 participants from 16 countries to compete in six categories, including generative AI skills.

Nur Zulzahirah Binti Mohd Anwar, 16, a hearing-impaired contestant from Malaysia, won the overall championship.

"This was my first time participating in GITC, and I'm surprised and honored to be selected as a global IT leader," she said. She encouraged fellow participants to pursue their dreams overcoming prejudices.

The annual competition, which began in 2011, is jointly organized by LG, South Korea's Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Philippine government. It has drawn more than 5,000 participants from 40 countries, expanding from Asia to the Middle East and North Africa.

Past participants include Aikeo Koomanivong, a 2014 contestant who now heads Laos' disability service center and develops free braille software.

"GITC has served as a stepping stone for 5,000 youths to grow into competitive IT professionals beyond the barriers of disability," said Yoon Dae-sik, LG Electronics' executive vice president of external relations.

The company will continue supporting talented individuals in the IT field, he said.

Candice Kim candicekim1121@ajupress.com