OSRAM Opto Semiconductors (M) Sdn Bhd has stepped in to support the Penang ‘E-learning Computer Programme’ by donating 200 units of used computers to help underprivileged students.
Its managing director Glen Brownlie said the company was very pleased to be part of the initiative.
“We are happy to help the eligible schools and students. We hope to continue working together with the state government.
“Thank you for the opportunity,” he told a press conference in Komtar today.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the donations from OSRAM and others from the corporate sector had helped alleviate the adverse effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The needy students are able to pursue their studies with the digital devices contributed by the corporate companies.
“We have distributed 749 units of free computers to eligible students, and 97 units to six selected schools in Penang to date.
“Some 300 units of used computers, including the 200 computers from OSRAM, are still in the process of refurbishing,” he said.
Chow expressed his appreciation towards the Penang ‘E-learning Computer Programme’ task force, led by state Social Development and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Chong Eng, for the initiative and effort in obtaining and distributing the e-learning devices to eligible students.
“I am happy to note that the programme will continue despite that the schools have reopened. This is to bridge the inequality gap caused by the digital divide.
“The initiatives within the framework of the Penang ‘E-learning Computer Programme’ task force which are to be continued, include the laptop loan scheme and the used computer grant scheme,” he said.
“I believe that through the concerted efforts of the Penang ‘E-learning Computer Programme’ task force, state agencies, private and corporate sectors, non-governmental organisations and the public, we will be able to develop local students and build a healthy pipeline of talents for the future,” he said.
Chow welcomed more organisations and individuals to take part in the meaningful programme.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad