Social affairs ministry's Em Chan Makara (right) visits youth with disability. DAC
In an uplifting move, the Disability Action Council (DAC) recently organised an energetic online international information technology competition. This platform saw young people with disabilities showcasing their technological skills, competing for four prized positions.
The victors had the honour of representing Cambodia at the esteemed Global Information Technology Challenge for People of Determination (GITC) International Competition. This worldwide event took place in the bustling city of Adu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates.
This electrifying competition ran its course on July 25-26. Adding to the anticipation, five additional competitors from the initial event have been granted the opportunity to take part in the GITC competition online. This digital contest will be sparking screens from October 24-29.
Em Chan Makara, secretary of state for the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation and secretary-general of the DAC, was present at the competition.
"I would like to encourage all young people with disabilities to participate in the competition and hope that those who participated today will have the opportunity to compete in the United Arab Emirates in the future," he said.
Makara was also vocal about his heartfelt pride that Cambodians with disabilities could match wits in this contest with international peers.
As an added feather in their cap, he joyfully noted, Cambodian competitors have previously clinched gold, silver and bronze medals.
During the event, Makara made a point of visiting a group of children with disabilities. He had a lively chat about donating musical instruments from Prime Minister Hun Sen to support the Marist Solidarity Cambodia group's “Children with Disabilities Music Band”.
Following this, he inspected a park that his donations had helped fund, providing more outdoor space for persons with disabilities.
The online semi-finals held from July 25 to 26 saw an impressive turnout, with over 530 eager young participants from 17 countries. Cambodia alone contributed 24 competitors, hailing from the Lavalla School, the National Institute of Special Education, Pour un Sourire d’Enfant and other community youth members.
The DAC shed light on the fact that the GITC International Competition is a flagship project, specifically designed to bolster technology communication skills of young people with disabilities. It aims to lay the foundation for social progress and intensify awareness of digital accessibility for young people with disabilities.
Looking forward, 2024 promises to make the GITC competition even more impactful. The aim is to amplify its reputation and sustainability, transforming it into a globally recognised platform. This will certainly shine a spotlight on the immense capabilities of youth with disabilities, underscoring the significance of inclusivity in the world of technology.
