The initiative aims to provide struggling learners with refurbished laptops to help them surmount this enormous challenge. Xperien collects redundant computers from corporate companies across the globe, offering a free data sanitising service in exchange. Once sanitised, the equipment is refurbished and redistributed to previously disadvantaged communities.
Wale Arewa, Xperien CEO, says there is a gap that needs to be filled in assisting scholars from the 'forgotten class'. "We have therefore developed a program to assist scholars from private schools at the lower end of the market.”
“With no support from government, these families find it extremely challenging to pay school fees or to purchase laptops to ensure the continuation of studies. The parent’s priority is to feed and provide shelter for the child rather than to pay school fees or to buy a refurbished laptop which would rather cover a month’s worth of groceries," he explains.
Through its relationship with corporate companies, Xperien has been able to create value from their used equipment to bridge the digital divide. However, when disposing of any IT asset, it is necessary for the company to guarantee that the data stored on the asset is destroyed according to industry standards and more importantly, government regulations.
"Our offer to corporates is the safe collection of redundant equipment, data erasure and reporting so that they can dispose of their IT equipment knowing that they have complied with relevant legislation and have received the best value for your redundant IT equipment," he concludes.
The need for support has grown exponentially, especially at middle-class independent and private schools. As a result, Xperien has decided to seek global assistance.
