Class in: science and technology
Theme : CFG
Since the program launched, two million refurbished devices have been distributed to Canadians who need them most
OTTAWA, ON, September 26, 2023 /CNW/ – Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honorable François-PhilippeChampagne, today highlighted 30 years of investment in digital integration of the Computers for Schools and More (OPE+) program. The program provides refurbished computer equipment at the community level, helping young Canadians gain enriching work experiences and the skills they need to participate in the digital economy.
Since 1993, the program has helped reduce the environmental impact of e-waste by extending the life of electronic devices. The OPE+ program also helps bridge the digital divide by supporting access to technology and connectivity. Approximately two million computers and other digital devices were provided to schools, libraries, non-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and eligible low-income Canadians.
For 30 years, the OPE+ program has also enabled 8,500 young people to complete practical, paid work placements in rehabilitation centers across Canada. These young people were able to acquire advanced digital skills that will be useful to them in the job market.
The Government of Canada continues to support communities by providing citizens who need it most the technologies they need to access the digital world. In addition, it helps young people improve the digital skills that are in high demand to enter today’s job market, while making further progress in implementing environmental priorities.
Quotes
By working to build a more resilient, sustainable and competitive economy, we help all Canadians to thrive. That’s why our government is working to build a strong workforce ready for the workplace of tomorrow. That’s why our government is also working to bridge the digital divide by providing refurbished electronic devices to the Canadians who need them most while reducing e-waste. Investing in youth and helping Canadians access the digital world are important parts of our efforts to support an increasingly digital economy. We are proud that the “Computers for Schools and Beyond” program makes a significant contribution to this.
-The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honorable François-Philippe Champagne
The success of the Computers for Schools and Beyond program is based on the efforts of the many partners, members and volunteers who have worked there for 30 years. They have helped more than a generation of Canadians become digitally savvy and connected online. We invite others to also do their part and continue this spearhead.
– The Director General of Computers for Excellence Canada, MichelLangelier
We are proud to support the Computers for Schools and Beyond program through the CEO Pledge campaign and our collaboration with Computers for Excellence Canada, its subsidiaries and the Government of Canada. It is absolutely important that all Canadians have equal access to technology, and it is with this in mind that the program was created 30 years ago. Young Canadians need technology to participate in the digital economy and we must give them the tools to build a more prosperous economy for future generations.
-The President and CEO of Desjardins Group, Guy Cormier
At Microsoft, our goal is to empower everyone to reach greater heights. We are proud to have supported the Computers for Schools and Beyond program for decades and to have jointly initiated the CEO Engagement Campaign. As of June 2021, more than 50 CEOs of major Canadian companies have committed to donating their old equipment to less affluent Canadians. We invite Canada’s top executives, entrepreneurs and small businesses to donate their devices. Every device counts. There is enough computer equipment in the country to bridge the digital divide. We simply have to make it available to those who need it most.
– Vice President, Global Partner Solutions, Microsoft, JasonHermitage
Fast facts
- The Computers for Schools and Beyond (OPE+) program benefits communities, industry and the environment by helping to extend the life of electronic devices and reduce the amount of e-waste that ends up in computers.
- The OPE+ program distributed two million refurbished devices to people in great need across Canada.
- Almost 11,900 tons of e-waste were recycled before ending up in landfills.
- Over the last 30 years, more than 8,500 young people have had access to employment opportunities through the internship component of the OPE+ program, enabling them to gain valuable digital skills.
Related links
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Press release sent on September 26, 2023 3:00 p.m. and distributed by:
