Government, Industry Celebrate Success of Computers for Schools Initiative

Government and industry came together today, June 2, to urge more businesses to get involved with the Computers for Schools program.

The program has put more than 70,000 computers in Nova Scotia schools, helping students gain skills they need to find good jobs and grow the economy.

During an event in Halifax, Education Minister Marilyn More; Lisa Setlakwe, director National Access Program Directorate, Industry Canada; and Candace Salkey, manager, Bell Aliant Pioneers, recognized the staff and volunteers of the Computers for Schools program.

"This province's students benefit every day from the resources Computers for Schools provide, helping them gain the knowledge needed to build good careers," said Education Minister Marilyn More. "This organization helps provide essential learning tools that complement the new technology resources we are committed to providing each year."

Computers for Schools Nova Scotia is a public/private partnership that provides school boards, libraries, literacy programs and non-profit organizations with refurbished computer equipment. More than half the computers in schools have come from the Computers for Schools initiative, which gets equipment from government and business.

"The Computers for Schools program is an important stepping stone in preparing students for the workplace of the future by providing them with access to technology and the Internet," said Industry Canada Minister Tony Clement. "Through the program, and the work of dedicated volunteers and staff, young Canadians in Nova Scotia, and right across our country, are being positioned for success in tomorrow's digital economy."

During the event, more than 50 potential partners were offered a tour of the workshop where computers are refurbished and stored. Staff hope to make connections during the event to gather more resources to expand services.

"Refurbishing computers for schools provide students with important tools for learning while extending the life of equipment that would otherwise end up in a landfill," said Ms. Salkey. "The Bell Aliant Pioneers see great value in partnering with Computers for Schools across Atlantic Canada."

Computers for Schools Nova Scotia has provided good job opportunities by hiring recent college graduates as technicians. It is working with the Department of Education to make more connections with students, providing co-op high shcool students placements in its workshops.

"Computers for Schools has been a great work experience for me," said Brandon MacLean, technician for Computers for Schools. "Rebuilding computers to give back to schools and the community has been a really fulfilling experience. I have learned so much, and I will carry these skills with me into my future career."

In addition to the refurbished computers, the Department of Education provides more than 1,000 computers and projectors, worth $900,000, through the Information Economy Initiative Extension.

For more information about how to get involved with Computers for Schools, visit trp.ednet.ns.ca .