Charity Computer Aid International has launched a campaign to
encourage businesses to donate their old PCs to developing
countries, with the message that it can be easier than scrapping
the hardware and can boost staff morale.
"Donating old computer systems instead of throwing them away could
indeed help to improve staff morale," said Nick Pye, hardware
support manager at Tokyo Mitsubishi International. The bank donated
250 Pentium PCs to Computer Aid International earlier this year.
In most developing countries 99% of children leave school without
ever touching a computer in the classroom, according to the
charity's estimates. There is enormous demand for refurbished
computers in these countries and, through Computer Aid
International, companies such as Tokyo Mitsubishi are able to
donate their old hardware to the schools that need them.
Pye said it was easier to let the charity have the equipment than
scrap it. "Making such donations of IT equipment is felt by all to
be a worthwhile way to handle our disposal requirements. Because
good use can be made of the items donated, we feel are acting in a
responsible manner," he said.
New computers in developing countries are often more expensive than
in the West and the price of even one new PC is prohibitive for
most schools in sub-Saharan Africa. For the price of just one new
PC, Computer Aid International can supply 20 quality, refurbished
machines.
Tony Roberts, director of the charity, said, "End-of-life PCs are
worthless to most companies, but invaluable to school children.
Companies have written down the value of their redundant computers
to nil and all they see is a headache in getting rid of their old
kit. We can take care of the headaches, while at the same time
ensuring that the PCs go to very good causes."