Laptops will be provided to 1000 students through a partnership between TasNetworks, WorkVentures, TasCOSS and Anglicare. With funding support from TasNetworks and the Tasmanian Community Fund (TCF), the Tech4Kids TAS – No child left behind program will help digitally excluded students across the state access the technology and skills they need to thrive.
TasNetworks Chief Executive Seán Mc Goldrick said the program was all about taking action to address the digital divide in Tasmania by providing laptops, internet plans, coaching and tech support to students in need.
“We are all about powering a bright future and this program is just one of many ways we can help the Tasmanian community,” he said. “Having access to technology can help young people in so many ways, and we’re proud to play a role in their learning and growth.”
WorkVentures Chief Executive Officer Caroline McDaid said Tasmanian young people face higher levels of digital exclusion than anywhere else in Australia and Tech4Kids TAS – No child left behind aims to help change that.
“We believe every Tasmanian child has the right to a quality, holistic education and the opportunities afforded through connection to the digital world. Unfortunately, right now, this is not the case,” she said.
TCF Chairperson Kym Goodes said the three main barriers to digital inclusion in education are access, affordability and digital ability. “The funds provided by the TCF and partner organisations will help directly tackle these barriers by allowing more children to have access to affordable technology” she said. “Removing barriers to education, such as digital barriers, are critical to ensuring more children are able to engage with learning and achieve better educational outcomes.”
TasCOSS CEO, Adrienne Picone, said one-in-four Tasmanians faced barriers to digital inclusion and 54,000 Tasmanians were unable to get online or navigate the online world. “Digital exclusion leads to other forms of disadvantage, including limited access to education, employment opportunities, health care, government services and social connections,” she said.
“Tech4Kids project is important to Anglicare because it enables children to do their homework and keep connected with school,” she said. This project is a holistic two-year digital uplift program supporting up to 1000 Tasmanian primary and high school children with essentials for continued engagement in digital learning.For more information please contact your supporting not-for-profit organisation directly, or James Ryan on 0490 532 994 or via email james.ryan@workventures.com.au