IT equipment has been donated as part of the DVLA’s new Digital Inclusion Scheme, which aims to donate digital equipment to local authorities for redistribution to schools across Wales. Swansea Council is the scheme’s first recipient.
The scheme promotes the development of critical digital skills for all and helps to ensure that young learners are not subjected to digital exclusion.
Julie Lennard, Chief Executive of the DVLA, stated:
I’m very proud of this new initiative and thrilled that Swansea Council is the first to receive our donated laptops. Digital inclusion is critical to ensuring that all students have access to the technology they require to develop digital skills for themselves and the region.
We intend to roll out the scheme across Wales and encourage all local authorities to sign up and participate in the DVLA’s Digital Inclusion Scheme.
Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, stated:
I’m thrilled that Swansea is the first local authority to begin working with the DVLA on the Digital Inclusion scheme as part of our commitment to ensuring that all of our schools and students have access to digital devices at home and at school.
Some students have already begun to use the equipment, and many more will benefit along with their families, so I’d like to thank the DVLA for including us in this wonderful community initiative.
The Digital Inclusion Scheme also promotes the implementation of the circular economy. Repurposing IT equipment extends the life of a laptop, reducing the number of machines discarded. This act contributes to the DVLA’s carbon emissions being reduced to zero.
Primary and secondary schools in Wales can participate in the scheme. Local governments can join the scheme now by visiting the DVLA’s Stem website.
