 the commemoration of the International Day of Girls in Ice City's continues to be of crucial importance to the International Telecommunication Union and more specifically, the Telecommunication Development Bureau. Women continue to be critically underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics commonly referred to as STEM careers where they are really found in leadership positions compared to men. While inequality exists in every industry, this gap is most pronounced in STEM fields, where less than one third of STEM roles globally are held by women. One of the main reasons for this gender divide is the lack of encouragement and mentorship to empower girls and young women to pursue leadership roles and develop the necessary skills and networks to successfully achieve their objectives. Addressing such challenges is a priority for the international girls in ICT day. It is with pride that I noted the fact that since 2011, nearly 380,000 girls and young women have taken part in more than 11,400 international girls in ICT day celebrations in 175 countries, featuring role models who inspire girls and young women to pursue STEM education and careers. In order for us not to lose momentum and to also keep our eyes on the ball, the girls in ICT day has become a global movement seeking to achieve digital gender equality. Dear friends, I'm strongly convinced that change is not a title, change is a mindset, a habit. Girls can make invaluable contribution to society and deliver change, capable of profoundly impacting the community they live in, especially through digital. Forstaring a greater presence of girls and women in the tech sector generates much-needed inclusivity in the design and development of digital tools and platforms. That's why the Telecommunication Development Bureau has launched numerous initiatives to encourage the participation of women and girls in ICT at all levels. Under the theme leadership, this year girls in ICT day will be celebrated on the 25th of April. I invite and encourage everyone to organize and take part in the countless different events to celebrate this special day. Feel free to get your inspiration for ideas from our website or by following us on hashtag girls in ICT. Thank you and happy international girls in ICT day.