 It seems like just yesterday that I decided to become an engineer in information and communication technology. Today, many of you are pondering the same choice of a career in tech. Never before has such a decision been so important. Information and communication technologies are at the heart of the response to the unprecedented crisis we are facing. From teleworking and e-commerce to telemedicine and remote learning, digital technologies have proved a key ally in helping to tackle COVID-19. They have kept people safe, productive and connected as the world brings to a halt. In this term, girls in ICT day is a ray of hope. It is the hope of all these young women and girls around the world who see and take the promise of a better future, not just for themselves but for all the people and communities around them. No virus, no matter how powerful, can ever diminish that hope. I call on all government, business, university leaders and others to give these young women and girls the chance to achieve their dreams. Learning must not stop during this crisis. Controlling ITU and other partners to support remote learning and ensure the vital telecommunication networks they rely on are resilient now and long after we have defeated these diseases. Now is the time to renew our commitment to science, technology, engineering and maths and encourage more young women and girls from all backgrounds and cultures to enter STEM careers. My message to you is, you are the next generation of women in tech and we at ITU cannot wait to see what you are going to do next. Girls in ICT day is your day. To inspire many of you to start the journey to the fascinating world of information and communication technologies. On this day, let us remember that COVID-19 knows no borders, that nobody is safe until we are all safe and that we should not rest until we are all connected and bridge the digital gender divide. Today, I am more confident than ever before in our capability and in the new generation of young women and girls to rise to the challenge and continue to use tech as a source for good for everyone.