DXC Technology donates laptops to NT primary schools

DXC Technology has donated 90 laptop devices to three primary schools in the Northern Territory as part of a second collaboration with NT Cricket and the Shell V-Power Racing Team. The initiative, which has increased in scale over the past year, aims to provide greater access to learning experiences for students at Malak, Ludmilla, and Millner Primary Schools in Darwin.

The project also involves contributions from partners Viva Energy Australia (Shell Licensee), Penske Australia and New Zealand, Repco, and LiteHaus International. DeadlyScience, an Indigenous STEM organisation, and the Shell V-Power Racing Team delivered a joint STEM session at the three schools. The event was held in conjunction with the Repco Supercars Championship Darwin Triple Crown, an annual Indigenous Round.

On June 11, 2024, 100 students from the three primary schools were invited to the DXC Arena in Darwin. There, Shell V-Power Racing Team drivers Anton De Pasquale and Will Davison presented them with the donated laptops. Minister for Education Mark Monaghan, MLA, Northern Territory Government, was also in attendance, along with student representatives, to reveal the Shell V-Power Racing Team's 2024 Indigenous Livery.

In addition to receiving the laptop devices, students participated in STEM sessions facilitated by DeadlyScience, completed truck tours by Penske Australia and New Zealand, explored the two Shell V-Power Mustangs, and engaged in cricket games organised by NT Cricket. Leading up to the event, NT Cricket had been conducting clinics at the three schools.

Seelan Nayagam, President of DXC Technology for Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, commented, "We are pleased to grow this initiative with our partners in the Northern Territory. Whether it be introducing cricket clinics with NT Cricket, donating laptops, or advocating STEM learning with DeadlyScience and the Shell V-Power Racing Team, it is vital for likeminded organisations to come together and give back to schools and communities."

He added, "DXC is committed to reducing barriers and contributing to the educational success of Territorians. We are grateful to LiteHaus International for preparing the 90 laptop devices to meet the Department of Education's requirements. Initiatives like this lay the foundation for students to participate more meaningfully in society and achieve better life outcomes."

This donation and the digital learning experiences are part of DXC's Digital Futures Programme, which has thus far donated over 1,000 laptops and impacted more than 20,000 students. The programme aims to provide refurbished technology equipment and support STEM pathways through partnerships with various organisations, schools, and community programs.

DXC Technology emphasises sustainable and responsible business practices by adopting a circular economy approach. The company aims to recycle or reuse 99% of its IT equipment to achieve a target of zero e-waste in landfills.

David Noble, Chief Executive Officer of Shell V-Power Racing Team, expressed, "We're delighted to be part of DXC Technology's Digital Futures Programme for a second year. This community engagement programme connects our partners, government, and schools. After the 2023 success, our joint effort will deliver 90 laptops, significantly benefiting many students."

Gavin Dovey, CEO of NT Cricket, stated, "Today is all about connection and partnerships. We are excited to have DXC Technology as a partner who shares our vision of uniting and inspiring communities through cricket and educational initiatives."

Corey Tutt, Founder and CEO of DeadlyScience, said, "DeadlyScience was delighted to run our STEM in Schools Programme at Malak, Ludmilla, and Millner Primary Schools. This support will help to fuel Indigenous futures in STEM and provide opportunities for Indigenous youth by supplying technology that facilitates access to further education."