Subjects: NPT, EXE, ENI, NTA
Computers for Schools program has delivered 1.5 million computers to Canadians
Minister Bains celebrates major milestone in program that equips next generation with digital skills for future jobs
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Sept. 29, 2017 /CNW/ - In today's digital economy, the demand for employees with digital skills continues to grow. The Government of Canada is committed to making sure all Canadians are equipped with the right skills for the well-paying jobs of today and tomorrow.
That was the message delivered today by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. Minister Bains was joined by Sven Spengemann, Member of Parliament for Mississauga?Lakeshore, to celebrate a major milestone in the Computers for School (CFS) program: 1.5 million computers have been delivered across Canada. The celebration took place at Homelands Senior Public School in Mississauga and involved several CFS partners and recipients.
The Government of Canada's CFS program refurbishes donated computers and distributes them to schools, libraries, not-for-profit organizations and Indigenous communities across Canada. It has employed more than 6,900 youth interns across Canada and has helped divert millions of tons of e-waste from landfills throughout the country.
CFS is one of many digital skills programs focused on providing all Canadians with computer and Internet access and the skills to use digital technologies. The program aligns with the Government's Innovation and Skills Plan, a multi-year strategy to create well-paying, middle class jobs.
Quotes
"My congratulations to everyone involved with Computers for Schools. This is a big milestone, and it marks another important step in creating the innovation culture that will sustain our job growth and ensure our success in the digital age. We especially need more women and other under-represented groups to learn the digital skills they need for the jobs of the future. Canada will only succeed if we use everybody's talents to their full potential."
? The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
"Our government recognizes that it is vital for young people across Canada to develop the skillset to excel in today's modern, digital and knowledge-based economy. I am proud to celebrate the efforts of all those involved in making the Computers for Schools program a success."
? Sven Spengemann, Member of Parliament for Mississauga?Lakeshore
"The real impacts of the Computers for Schools program are seen in the creativity, skills and expansion of minds that are happening in our classrooms, in our non-profit sector, in our CFS workshops and in our communities. Thank you to the Minister and the Government of Canada for supporting Renewed Computer Technology in delivering over 458,400 computers in Ontario and for helping us empower youth in the technical field to pursue their career goals."
? Shauna L. McCaffrey, Executive Director, Renewed Computer Technology
"The CFS program is a Canadian success story?a multi-sector partnership of public, private and not-for-profit organizations focused on digital inclusion and innovation. Today's celebration of the delivery of 1.5 million computers by program affiliates in every province and territory over nearly 25 years is a moment to reflect on Canada's leadership in developing clean technology, essential digital skills and economic opportunities."
? Toby Harper-Merrett, Executive Director, Computers for Success Canada?Ordinateurs pour l'excellence Canada
"An ever-changing world requires teachers and educators to be willing to innovate our practice in response to the needs of modern learners in a dynamic, global context. Contributions like these help schools prepare our students for the world they will inherit."
? Peter Joshua, Director of Education of the Peel District School Board
Quick facts
- Since 1993, the Computers for Schools program has delivered more than 1.5 million refurbished computers to schools, libraries, registered not-for-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and refugees across Canada, and it has employed more than 6,900 young Canadians in all regions.
- The CFS program minimizes governments' and businesses' impact on the environment by reusing and recycling computer equipment.
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada works with provincial and territorial governments, not-for profit organizations, the private sector and volunteers to deliver this program.
Associated links
Follow Minister Bains on Twitter: @MinisterISED
SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
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