Donate Your Own Device 2.0 Campaign Seeks To Collect 100,000 Electronic Devices For Underprivileged Students

The Digital School, part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has teamed up with the Emirates Red Crescent to launch "Donate Your Own Device 2.0." This campaign aims to gather 100,000 used electronic devices for refurbishment and recycling. The goal is to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds worldwide. This initiative combines education, humanitarian efforts, and environmental sustainability by collecting devices from individuals and organisations.

Following the success of its first phase, which collected over 50,000 devices with participation from more than 100 entities in the UAE, the campaign is now a permanent initiative. It reflects a long-term commitment to spreading knowledge and bridging the digital divide globally. The campaign also aims to reduce electronic waste by about 200 tonnes while promoting fair digital transformation and education for all.

Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, highlighted that making this campaign permanent shows the UAE's dedication to sustainability. He stated that it aligns with the leadership's vision of using technology as a tool for empowerment. The initiative integrates charitable, developmental, and environmental work by turning recycled electronics into educational tools.

Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent Board of Directors, noted that the Digital School has transformed educational services for refugees and vulnerable groups in underprivileged areas. He welcomed the partnership with the Digital School to enhance smart education opportunities flexibly and effectively. The Authority is committed to expanding these humanitarian initiatives regionally and internationally.

The Digital School was launched in November 2020 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is part of a broader effort to empower students through digital learning options. The school offers blended learning and distance education targeting underprivileged groups worldwide using modern educational materials and curricula.

The second edition of "Donate Your Own Device" highlights ongoing community commitment in the UAE towards sustainable giving and social responsibility. It raises awareness about reusing and recycling electronics through various community events. This effort is organised with partners like Ecyclex company and supported by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

Environmental Achievements

The first campaign launched in 2023 during the Year of Sustainability aimed to provide 10,000 refurbished devices to needy students. It achieved significant environmental milestones by collecting 50,000 devices, recycling 120 tonnes of e-waste, reducing carbon emissions by 122 tonnes, saving fuel equivalent to 170,000 litres, and protecting land from toxic waste pollution.

The Digital School continues its mission with over 500,000 students from 33 countries benefiting from its programs. It offers educational content in five languages: Arabic, English, French, Spanish, and Kurdish. This comprehensive approach expands educational opportunities through digital learning options globally.

Acknowledging Contributions

The first edition honoured key supporters like Dubai Police, Ministry of Health and Community Prevention, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority among others for their pivotal roles in its success. These contributions underscore a collective effort towards achieving development based on education and knowledge dissemination worldwide.

Al Mazrouei added that what sets the Digital School apart is its ability to provide quality education within a framework suited for future visions using technology. This shift from traditional methods ensures high satisfaction levels among students even in challenging regions.

With inputs from WAM