The Digital School, an initiative of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has launched the “DYOD: Donate Your Own Device“ campaign in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) and Ecyclex.
The campaign aims to collect 10,000 used electronic devices from individual and institutional donors, which will then be refurbished, recycled and redistributed to students in underserved communities. Not only does this support the humanitarian and educational objectives of bridging the digital gap and improving access to education, but it also promotes the circular economy and sustainability.
The campaign shared that a staggering 50 million tons of electronic waste is created every year, which equates to 800 laptops being thrown out every second. And on top of this, e-waste comprises 70 per cent of all toxic waste. Giving electronic devices a new lease of life means that they’re diverted away from landfills and provides disadvantaged children with education opportunities.
So far, 3,213 devices have been donated, and 41 organisations have pledged to the campaign. Further, organisations participating in the campaign will be awarded Green Contribution Certificates in Sustainability and Recycling from Ecyclex and ReLoop.
The DYOD: Donate Your Own Device campaign accepts (working or broken):
- Computers, laptops, and tablets
- Smartphones
- Telecom and networking devices, routers, switches, modems,
- Printers,
- Accessories, headphones, chargers and power banks.
The Digital School is the first integrated digital school and was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, back in 2020. The initiative aims to expand access to education through digital learning.
Over 60,000 students are enrolled across eight countries, including Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Mauritania, Lebanon, Colombia, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, head over to the Donate Your Own Device website.