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From the outset, we saw strong interest in the
program with more than 3,500 applicants. Out
of this pool, six exceptional young professionals
were selected and are now working across ITU’s
sectors. They have already brought so many
new ideas and fresh energy into our work in
addition to technical expertise in key areas such
as artificial intelligence, submarine cables, and
Girls in ICT Day cybersecurity. Some of them even had a chance
to address our governing body, the ITU Council,
but significant challenges remain, many tied to which was very exciting.
broader inequalities in society.
Looking ahead, we are excited to expand the
ITU is working to close this gap through initiatives YPP and strengthen partnerships to ensure the
like EQUALS, which is empowering 100 million program continues to grow. To me, the YPP
women and girls to contribute actively to the is about more than recruitment—it’s a way to
global economy by 2035. Programs like Her invest in ITU and make sure our organization is
Digital Skills, CyberTracks, and the AI Skills fit for the future.
Accelerator are creating pathways for individuals
Visit in Ethiopia to enter, stay, and lead in the digital space. The ITU has recently collaborated with UNHCR
with UNHCR to support refugees. Could you tell us more about
There is a path forward: through collaboration, this initiative and its objectives?
education, and sustained investment we can The Connectivity for Refugees (CfR) initiative,
close the gender digital divide. launched in 2023, is a powerful example of
how partnerships can transform lives through
The AI for Good Global Summit and WSIS technology. Together with UNHCR, ITU is
Forum 2026 will be a valuable platform for working to bring meaningful and affordable
amplifying voices, sharing solutions, and connectivity to 20 million refugees and host
fostering collaboration. These events will bring communities by 2030. Connectivity isn’t just
together female leaders, ministers, regulators, about access to the Internet — it’s about opening
and innovators who are driving change in their doors to education, healthcare, livelihoods, and
communities and industries. Their participation hope for people facing unimaginable challenges.
sends a powerful message about representation Last year, I visited Chad’s Sudanese border, where
and leadership in the digital space. over 1.5 million refugees are seeking safety.
What struck me most was seeing how digital
I am hopeful that stakeholders will commit to tools are helping displaced individuals and
specific, measurable actions — whether through local communities regain stability. Connected
funding, policy reforms, or educational programs learning hubs powered by satellite technology
that can advance progress for all people. and local mobile operators are enabling refugees
to access vital services and take steps toward
You have launched a Young Professionals self-reliance.
Programme. Is this initiative continuing, and
how would you assess its impact and reception The CfR initiative is reaching one million people
so far? across 15 countries, but there’s much more to do.
ITU membership and staff alike are thrilled Expanding infrastructure, removing regulatory
by this initiative! Launched to empower early- barriers, and scaling local solutions are critical
career professionals aged 21–30, the program to achieving our ambitious goal. Connectivity is
offers a unique two-year experience that not a luxury — it’s a lifeline, and we will continue
combines learning, mentorship, and exposure to work tirelessly to ensure that no one is left
to digital policy-making at ITU. It is designed behind.
not only to nurture talent but also to foster
innovation and diversity within the tech sector,
particularly by encouraging participation from
underrepresented countries.

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