The Computer Aid model is simple – gathering unused and unwanted devices from corporations, businesses and individual suppliers, refurbishing them and then donating them to those who need them most via a series of local strategic partnerships both in the UK and overseas.
Our foundations are built on the understanding that the technological and digital divide is only increasing, with the Western world and privileged communities upgrading devices and handsets on a regular basis, this leaves those without access to such tools further behind with every upgrade and new app.
By donating unwanted, refurbished devices, and offering solar-powered solutions around the world as well as within schools and underprivileged communities across the UK, we are working to bridge that gap.
But why is this so important and how are we achieving it through the process of refurbishing and repurposing?
The digital divide and its impact on educational experiences
When communities, young and old, don’t have access to the tools they need to develop and learn in line with the modern world, not only are they left out of opportunities but they are unable to develop and finetune the skills that they need to thrive in the 21st century.
The modern world brings a whole host of benefits to local business owners, young people, and those looking to learn new things and tap into new skills to safeguard their future and earn a living – however, without the most basic access to technology and the internet, individuals and whole communities from marginalised and underdeveloped countries have no hope of being able to thrive in a digital environment.
Similarly, for those pupils in schools across the UK without adequate access to technology, entire parts of the curriculum are lost – pupils with individual learning needs are unable to be suitably supported, and connectivity outside of the classroom is near impossible.
The fact is that the digital divide exists, and is continuing to grow, because while one half of the population thrives and upgrades their computer and phone regularly, the other half barely knows what a smartphone is – and has little to no hope of using one to compete with those from a more privileged background.
So, how is Computer Aid helping?
How our refurbished equipment is improving access to education and opportunities
By collecting donations of unwanted equipment from suppliers and donors, we attack not only this but two growing global problems.
Firstly, by refurbishing and donating unwanted equipment and technology devices to those in need, we are able to ensure that those who are less fortunate have access to the tools and resources that they need to thrive. Through the connectivity of a few computers and internet via our solar-powered learning hubs, off-grid communities can upskill both their young people and local business owners, which leads to new opportunities.
In UK schools and communities, access to much-needed computers and devices allows pupils to stay connected – providing teachers with up-to-date learning resources and curriculum updates, and even enabling them to provide children with specific learning needs with the tools that they need to keep up and thrive in the education system.
Secondly, by taking those unwanted devices and giving them a second life where they are needed, we are working to combat e-waste and the rising problem of discarded technology which has a debilitating impact on the environment around landfill sites. Raising awareness of this cause serves to further increase the motivation of our corporate donors in particular, with regular technology donations serving both their environment and socio-economic requirements and goals.
Could you help us further bridge the digital divide?
Working with Computer Aid couldn’t be easier – with our team doing everything required to turn your unwanted devices and computers into environmental and social impact reports to pass on to your clients and stakeholders.
As evidenced by the multitude of case studies and real-life stories on our website, a simple computer with internet access can transform the future opportunities and educational experiences of young people both here in the UK and further afield. If that doesn’t make you thankful for what you’ve got, we don’t know what will!