Agastya Karthik

Bridging the Digital Divide for Underprivileged Children

Hi Friend,
 
I am happy to be an ambassador under DISHA – Bandipur project.  Please join me in providing quality education to underprivileged children.
 
 

DONATE TO EDUCATE

THE PROBLEM

The pandemic has changed how millions around the globe are to be educated. This year, school closures due to COVID-19 have impacted the learning of 247 million children in India. Educational establishments are being challenged with finding the answers to provide continuity for education for children and are seriously exploring on-line education. 
 
Online education is not an option.

Only one in four children have access to digital devices and internet

Given the digital divide and lack of access to technology-enabled education, many children will be denied education and could widen equality gaps. Even more, with schools closed for over 18 months, there are significant learning losses which needs to attention as we get ready for the schools to reopen.

Every single day of school counts.
 
 

THE IDEA

Collect old laptops and desktops from IT companies, refurbish them through donations and distribute them to underprivileged children and train them how to use it. For smaller children, purchase android projectors, as it has been found to be more effective with the younger children in terms of adoption.
 

THE OUTCOME

Building digital literacy amongst those who are underprivileged and raising awareness in the community regarding digital divide.

Identify: Researching and identifying IT companies in the area by searching online or using local business directories and through personal networks.

Process: Once I have identified IT companies in my area, I will contact them to inquire about their policies on disposing of old laptops by calling them, sending an email or visiting their office in person.

Purpose: I will explain my purpose for collecting the old laptops.

Data Privacy: IT companies may have concerns about data privacy, so I will provide assurance that I will securely erase any data on the laptops.

Arrange for pickup or drop-off: If the IT company agrees to donate the old laptops, I will arrange for a pickup or drop-off of the laptops. I will make sure to confirm the date, time, and location for the pickup or drop-off.

Evaluate and refurbish the laptops: Once I have collected the laptops, I will evaluate them to determine if they can be refurbished or repurposed. If so, they will be cleaned, their hard drives wiped, and any necessary software will be installed  before putting them to use.

Identifying schools requiring laptops: I will search for schools (through known networks) lacking in technological development and provide laptops and android projectors to bridge the digital divide.

GOAL

3 android projectors – ₹ 15,000 per projector = ₹ 45,000

10 old laptops – ₹ 10,000 per refurbishment = ₹ 1,00,000

Total Budget = ₹ 1,50,000