Thank you for arranging this opportunity in order that I could forward my feelings about the contract. I have known ITU since 2001, a year in which a youth forum took place in South Africa. Actually, I was not a participant by that time. Two years later, that is in August 2003, came a golden opportunity of signing a contract as a web designer under the BDT youth program. Without any exaggeration, it enhanced my dream and enthusiasm of joining the ICT world. I have no words to describe my heartfelt excitement and satisfaction by the time I commenced my long journey and as well my first real career.

I have enjoyed the facility and meeting the staff of ITU Regional Office for Africa and am particularly impressed by the professionalism and dedication that the staff is exhibiting. They are too cooperative and also good guidelines. I am most impressed by the amount that the ITU has accomplished so far and I feel proud of being able to share this outstanding achievement. The philosophy about the importance of standardization and support for developing countries is one that everybody shares. I also believe in the importance of maintaining an attractive and stimulating physical environment.

Ever since I started my contract as a web designer, my interest of joining the ICT world keeps on increasing, let alone the fact that I am gathering experience and peaking my talent. My current career is paving a way for me to serve my country and the whole of Africa in all aspects.

I share the vision of the Telecommunication Development Bureau and am currently in search of such a professional opportunity – one that allows me and others in this same route to maximize our potential and thereby our achievement. This cannot be accomplished without ensuring integrity with the ICT world. I anticipate to develop a strong attachment to this need of the world, be it with ITU or other local or international organization.

ITU Telecom World 2003, to be held in Geneva, October 12-18, is one of the special circumstances in which the most influential representatives of government and the telecommunications industry gather for the exchange of ideas, knowledge and technology for the benefit of the global community, and in particular the developing world. Youth participation is also promoted implying the sympathy for developing awareness and skill for the new generation. Writing this short statement three days ahead of the commencement of ITU Telecom World 2003, I am anticipating its success and looking forward for the valuable outcomes.

I am greatly indebted to the support provided for me via ITU Regional Office for Africa and strive to strengthen my attachment with the organization and in effect with the ICT world.

Thank you.

Elias Belayneh

– Web Designer under BDT Youth Program