Computer Aid is a charity I have lots of respect for, so I was interested recently when I stumbled across a UK company that supports Computer Aid. Knowledge Train is a training company that has social responsibility as one of its core values, and has supported Computer Aid. Knowledge Train is typical of the many smaller and large organisations that contribute to Computer Aid by donating computer equipment.
Its mission is to empower the developing world by providing access, education, implementing technology, and supporting environmentally responsible solutions.
Since its formation in 1997 is has helped millions of people in over 100 countries by providing over 250,000 computers.
Computer Aid seeks to provide technology to help create a better learning environment by delivering computers which allow easier communication and access to educational resources.
What it does
Computer Aid offers the following services:
- Provides access to low-cost computers and software for non-profit organisations
- Trains teachers in ICT skills to improve their confidence when teaching
- Places its projects in places where they will create the biggest impact
- Offers a secure IT disposal service to help companies tackle electronic waste
- Recycles electronic waste at the end of its usable life.
Computer Aid receives donations of ICT equipment – computers, tablets and mobile phones from individuals, and organisations. These are then data-wiped, refurbished, and used in its projects worldwide.
Computer Aid works with local partners in a country because they are best placed to understand the precise needs of their communities. Computer Aid provides training to realise the potential of ICT.
It also uses solar power to run its computers in areas where the electricity supply either doesn’t exist or is unreliable. It developed its own Solar Learning Lab specifically for this purpose. It uses a Connect device to create a local area network of digital educational resources for schools lacking Internet access and school libraries.
If you like the aims of Computer Aid and would like to contribute, then you can find more information on its web site here: Computer Aid.