Microsoft has today been announced as the principal partner for an IT device initiative which has been called ‘game-changing’.
Created by IT specialist company Consenna, Devices for Education has been launched to help the nation address the challenges posed by the digital divide, which have been exacerbated by COVID-19.
The pandemic has not only highlighted the importance of technology in delivering quality teaching, but its legacy will also accelerate the uptake of hybrid learning. As such, the need for every student to have access to an adequate and reliable device has never been greater.
Devices for Education differs from other 1-2-1 and leasing programmes because it is entirely transparent from a cost and device lifecycle management perspective – a first of its kind for the sector.
The aim of the initiative is to connect students with a fit-for-purpose device in the first 12 months, whether that’s via an outright ownership, leasing or parental contribution model.
As part of its role as principal partner, Microsoft has secured the support of device manufacturers HP, Tactus and MS Surface, with other names expected to be confirmed in the coming months.
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“The important role technology plays in education has never been more visible nor critical than it is now,” said Chris Rothwell, director of education at Microsoft.
“Devices for Education is a step change in how laptops are procured for student use to ensure standardisation across spec, security and usability and we are proud to have taken the principal partner role in this important initiative. Now, we need to encourage schools, parents and corporates alike to register and find out more about how they can easily and effectively make a difference to every student in England.”
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