The subject of diversity in the technology industry has frequently been in the news lately, from reports of sexism at Uber, to the recent Google memo furore, to Gizmodo's suggestion that "one percent of the tech workers for Facebook, Yahoo, Airbnb, and Google are black." While there are many ongoing discussions in this area, LG at least wants to make a statement with regards to those with physical limitations: that they are welcome in the world of IT.
To do so, LG has partnered with Rehabilitation International Korea (RI Korea) to organize the seventh annual Global IT Challenge for Youth with Disabilities in Hanoi, Vietnam. The event, which will take place from September 19 to 21, will see students from across 16 Asian countries compete in a range of IT-related tasks, the aim of which is to "minimize the digital divide in the participants' ability to access technology and improve their chances of finding meaningful careers."
The participating students will be judged on their ability to think creatively and solve problems using modern tools, and the winners will receive cash prizes towards "educational expenses." The tasks will be judged by a panel comprised of experts from LG Electronics' R&D department, Seoul National Univerisity's Computer Engineering department, and other IT specialists.
"The challenges disabled individuals face in Asia won't disappear overnight but with the proper training and attitude, we can help lower the barrier to entry into the IT workforce," said Kim Young-lak, president of LG Electronics Vietnam. "LG is providing a foundation for today's challenged youth to discover new possibilities and unleash their true potential. We are confident that these students will leave the competition knowing that they can achieve anything."
While LG's support for this competition isn't necessarily evidence of its efforts to be more inclusive as a business overall, the company's involvement is nonetheless positive — particularly as its one of the largest technology manufacturers in the world.
What are your thoughts on the news? Let us know in the comments.
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