6 Tuesday Women in ICTs MR 01 10.30-12.00 Abu Dhabi B In the words of the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, equality for women and girls is not only a basic human right, but also a social and economic imperative. Educated, empowered women create productive, strong economies; societies where women are fully represented are more peaceful and stable. ICTs are an essential tool for the social and economic development of women and girls, providing education, promoting literacy, improving access to health care and participation in government and civil society. Women then reinvest in families and communities, multiplying the benefits of investment. How can women and girls at the bottom of the pyramid be connected to ICTs and broadband networks? What best practices are in place for women to be trained in eSkills, set up online businesses and engage meaningfully in social, economic and political activity? 56 ministerial roun dtables