Manila: The Global Information and Technology Challenge (GITC) for Youth with Disabilities commenced on Monday at The Manila Hotel, attracting 154 participants from 15 countries. The event, now in its 13th year, is designed to enhance the IT capabilities of youth with disabilities. According to Philippines News Agency, the competition aims to provide participants with the experience and skills needed to succeed in technology fields. Rehabilitation International Korea board member Jun Oh emphasized during a media forum that participants are capable of achieving on par with those without disabilities. The event serves as a transformative platform for these young individuals. The competition includes 104 participants aged 14 to 23 from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines, who have various disabilities, including visual, physical, hearing, and developmental disabilities. Glenda Relova, executive dire ctor of the National Council on Disability Affairs, highlighted that Filipino winners from previous GITC events have secured employment both locally and internationally, demonstrating the event's impact. The competition is divided into basic and applied categories. The basic segment tests presentation and spreadsheet skills, as well as the ability to solve everyday problems using online resources. The applied segment evaluates creative video production, coding for smart cars, and developing IT solutions to challenges faced by the participants. An international forum is set for Tuesday to discuss the future development of GITC, with stakeholders from participating countries tasked with managing their delegations and support systems. Jun Oh noted the forum's importance in shaping future policies and practices for the GITC.