Recycling Computers - A Guide for 2020
This article answers the following questions:
What is computer recycling?
Why should I recycle my old computer?
What are the benefits of E-Waste recycling?
What is the best way to reuse/recycle my computer?
How can I recycle with IT Schools Africa?
What happens to my data when recycling my computer?
What is computer recycling?
Why should I recycle my old computer?
What are the benefits of E-Waste recycling?
What is the best way to reuse/recycle my computer?
How can I recycle with IT Schools Africa?
What happens to my data when recycling my computer?
1. What is computer recycling?
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Computer recycling refers to the reuse and reprocessing of desktop computers and laptops, as well as other IT equipment, which have been discarded. It is done to reduce landfill, conserve non-renewable resources and promote both environmental and human health after disposing of computers in an environmentally beneficial way. It reduces the volume of waste in landfill, decreases the amount of raw materials necessary to manufacture new products – resulting in more efficient, convenient recycling and if refurbished; this benefits those unable to afford new IT equipment (Computer Weekly).
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Not sure what to do next?
Further information regarding why you should choose to recycle your IT equipment, the process, data security throughout, the benefits of donating to charity, frequently asked questions and more information can be found below.
Further information regarding why you should choose to recycle your IT equipment, the process, data security throughout, the benefits of donating to charity, frequently asked questions and more information can be found below.
2. Why recycle your computer?
Three ways to recycle (Panda Security).
Reusing IT equipment saves energy and resources, prevents hazardous materials from ending up in landfill and is 20 times more effective at saving life cycle energy use than recycling. Whilst recycling your computer is beneficial towards keeping toxic waste out of landfill, computer recycling also helps to conserve natural resources - reducing the amount necessary to produce new, electronic items. We encourage schools to return their old equipment when it has stopped working so we can either repair it or send it to be recycled. Where possible, we send all working equipment to Africa however, for equipment that is not suitable, is damaged, or has missing parts; we will recycle or resell it in the UK. The proceeds are used by the charity to further develop its work in Africa.
3. Electric waste recycling (E-Waste)
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Worldwide, approximately 40 million tons of electronic waste are generated a year. E-Waste is comprised of electronic devices or gadgets which are near to or at the end of its useful life.
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E-Waste disposal is often a complicated and expensive process (Mashable) but you can dispose of E-Waste by returning the product to the manufacturer, taking the item to a professional waste disposal facility or by donating the goods to a non-profit organisation where the equipment can be reused. Currently, only around 12.5% of E-Waste is recycled. IT Schools Africa uses an E-waste recycling process to recycle computer equipment such as flat screen monitors, laptops, keyboards and mice. All equipment is wiped using specialist approved software; for a full list of equipment specifications, please click here.
What is E-Waste? (World Economic Forum).
The Circular Economy
The Circular Economy is an industrial system that is restorative or regenerative by design (World Economic Forum); a system of resource utilisation where reduction, reuse and recycling prevail. It aims to eliminate waste by encouraging the continual use and refurbishment of resources. Within a circular economy, waste is non-existent as products ensure reuse. Currently, the production of resources and goods is centred on short-term consumption, an unsustainable system (Active Sustainability). The circular economy offers benefits for both businesses and consumers; it is more cost effective, sustainable and provides several social and environmental solutions. It is based on three principles: design out waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use and regenerate natural systems (Ellen Macarthur Foundation). Overall, the circular economy is extremely useful in ensuring that products can easily recycled, reducing the amount of waste produced.
The Circular Economy is an industrial system that is restorative or regenerative by design (World Economic Forum); a system of resource utilisation where reduction, reuse and recycling prevail. It aims to eliminate waste by encouraging the continual use and refurbishment of resources. Within a circular economy, waste is non-existent as products ensure reuse. Currently, the production of resources and goods is centred on short-term consumption, an unsustainable system (Active Sustainability). The circular economy offers benefits for both businesses and consumers; it is more cost effective, sustainable and provides several social and environmental solutions. It is based on three principles: design out waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use and regenerate natural systems (Ellen Macarthur Foundation). Overall, the circular economy is extremely useful in ensuring that products can easily recycled, reducing the amount of waste produced.
4. Recycle your computer with IT Schools Africa
IT Schools Africa has been sending refurbished computer equipment to schools in Africa since 2004. One donated computer gives 40 children access to a world of educational opportunities.
The reuse of old computers is the best form of recycling and donating computers to IT Schools Africa (ITSA) helps to preserve the environment, as well as meeting all your legal obligations. In October 2019 IT Schools Africa celebrated 15 years of transforming lives through e-Learning. We are registered with the Environment Agency and are fully compliant with the UK Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations. It is vital to consider the data security implications and understand that computers must be recycled and disposed securely; a process which is of vital importance to IT Schools Africa.
The reuse of old computers is the best form of recycling and donating computers to IT Schools Africa (ITSA) helps to preserve the environment, as well as meeting all your legal obligations. In October 2019 IT Schools Africa celebrated 15 years of transforming lives through e-Learning. We are registered with the Environment Agency and are fully compliant with the UK Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations. It is vital to consider the data security implications and understand that computers must be recycled and disposed securely; a process which is of vital importance to IT Schools Africa.
Reuse Unwanted Hardware
IT Schools Africa is a UK registered international charity (no. 1146157), which aims to transform lives through access to technology. It helps to provide quality education in Africa through the sustainable reuse of donated computers to schools – as well as supporting a wide range of community work-based initiatives in the UK. Based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, IT Schools Africa has been running for 15 years.
IT Schools Africa is a UK registered international charity (no. 1146157), which aims to transform lives through access to technology. It helps to provide quality education in Africa through the sustainable reuse of donated computers to schools – as well as supporting a wide range of community work-based initiatives in the UK. Based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, IT Schools Africa has been running for 15 years.
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In that time, with the help of an army of volunteers, the UK registered charity has:
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An IT lab at Chichiri School.
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Learning in a Zambian School, IT Schools Africa.
Saving Working Computers from Landfill
Monis Khalifa, who has been with charity since day one, explains how it began back in 2004: "I was shocked to see people throwing what appeared to be perfectly good computer equipment in to a skip and felt that something must be done to put an end to this waste." After discussing his idea with a local businessman, to address the situation and do something positive about it – IT Schools Africa was born.
Recycling in Africa
To ensure the equipment has a further extended life of 5-6 or more years, we aim to send only good quality equipment to our country programmes. Inevitably the computers will reach their end of life and when this happens we encourage the schools to send the equipment back to the technical centre who in turn will send it to recycling plant in South Africa. They will dismantle it to minimise the amount going to landfill.
Monis Khalifa, who has been with charity since day one, explains how it began back in 2004: "I was shocked to see people throwing what appeared to be perfectly good computer equipment in to a skip and felt that something must be done to put an end to this waste." After discussing his idea with a local businessman, to address the situation and do something positive about it – IT Schools Africa was born.
Recycling in Africa
To ensure the equipment has a further extended life of 5-6 or more years, we aim to send only good quality equipment to our country programmes. Inevitably the computers will reach their end of life and when this happens we encourage the schools to send the equipment back to the technical centre who in turn will send it to recycling plant in South Africa. They will dismantle it to minimise the amount going to landfill.
5. Equipment specifications
We can securely wipe all data using specialist data erasure software. We are no longer able to accept any old white equipment (includes computers, screens, keyboards and mice) as we have a responsibility to supply equipment that is in keeping with modern technology. Please make sure that the user accounts on iPads or iPhones have been deleted and the device is unlocked. Devices cannot be refurbished if the existing user account is still active on the device. You can read more about how to remove personal information here.
We take data security very seriously; please ensure you have reset your phone to factory settings so your data is deleted from your device.
We take data security very seriously; please ensure you have reset your phone to factory settings so your data is deleted from your device.
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Computers and Laptops:
• All brands • Dual core and above • No more than seven years old • Laptops – ideally alongside the charger Monitors with stands: • In working order • Black or silver • Flat screen Tablets and Mobile Phones: • In working order • Smart mobile phones • iPads and tablets • Ideally with the device charger • Maximum six years old |
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Peripherals and Accessories:
• Keyboards • Mice • Power leads • Cables • RAM and hard drives Printers (small size): • In working order • Laser only • HP • Samsung • Canon Networking Equipment: • Gigabit (Gb) switches • POE switches |
If you have any questions please contact us on 01242 228800 or visit contact@itschoolsafrica.org. Thank you for donating.
6. The process
The British Computer Society (BCS) represents those working in information technology and computer science in both the UK and internationally. An article written by the BCS on reusing unwanted hardware with IT Schools Africa (which can be read here) informatively summarises the process we take, which is detailed below.
ITSA is able to collect donations of IT equipment from anywhere within a three-hour driving radius from our Cheltenham headquarters, we aim to collect 600 working computers and monitors per month. Once collected, all the equipment donated is brought to our depot in Cheltenham and each computer is given a serial number, so there is an audit trail, meaning we can keep track of every item as it passes through our workshop to its final destination.
Data Erasure
ITSA is able to collect donations of IT equipment from anywhere within a three-hour driving radius from our Cheltenham headquarters, we aim to collect 600 working computers and monitors per month. Once collected, all the equipment donated is brought to our depot in Cheltenham and each computer is given a serial number, so there is an audit trail, meaning we can keep track of every item as it passes through our workshop to its final destination.
Data Erasure
- On arrival at the depot, the computers are given a basic clean and the hard drives are wiped to ensure all data is completely erased;
- We use internationally approved data erasure software called ‘Kill-Disc’ which is a US Department of Defence standard and ‘Wipe- Drive’ which is National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) approved;
- We can issue certificates of data erasure to prove all data has been erased if requested
- Once the hard drives have been wiped, the equipment then gets taken to a prison where teams of specially trained inmates clean, refurbish and upgrade the units;
- "We are proud to work with HM Prison Service and provide people with the opportunity to learn useful skills, so they can give back to society - and hopefully reduce their risk of re-offending. We’ve had a lot of very positive feedback from the prisoners working on the project…they tell us they enjoy learning new skills and say that they get a lot of satisfaction from knowing that their efforts are helping children with their education - and life chances" – Simon Richardson, UK Operations Manager.
Packing and shipping at IT Schools Africa, Cheltenham.
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Improving Skills in Africa
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An IT Schools Africa shipment arriving in Africa.
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The team will check and make sure that equipment hasn’t been damaged during shipping and is fully functioning;
- "Zambia is our flagship country where we have been able to supply many state schools with computers. Deliveries to Zimbabwe have been more intermittent, over recent years, due to the political and economic situation there. The programme in Malawi has been going from strength to strength in recent years and we have now constructed 30 purpose-built e-learning centres. We recently started a new programme delivering to Kenya, so this is a new venture for us" - Simon Richardson Operations Manager
7. Data security and compliance
Laptop data wiping at IT Schools Africa, Cheltenham.
Throughout our 15-year proven track record, we have taken data security very seriously and to ensure all data is wiped from the machines we use specialist approved software by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC provides guidance to the public and private sector on information assurance. We can provide data erasure certificates on request.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Privacy
Following the new GDPR law of 2018, this impacts the handling and protection of personal data, including disposal. Any IT equipment which is collected assures the safe removal of any information and data which is wiped a in a GDPR compliant manner; saving the hassle of paying for a data wiping service.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Privacy
Following the new GDPR law of 2018, this impacts the handling and protection of personal data, including disposal. Any IT equipment which is collected assures the safe removal of any information and data which is wiped a in a GDPR compliant manner; saving the hassle of paying for a data wiping service.
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A sample Certificate of Data Erasure which can be provided upon request.
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8. The benefits of donating to charity
ICT continues to bring new opportunities to individuals and communities; technology has the potential to be an empowering, life enhancing tool (UNESCO).
Our Approach
What sets ITSA apart from other UK organisations sending refurbished computers to Africa is its uniquely holistic approach. In the UK, the programme supports the local community. We have welcomed over 1,000 volunteers to ITSA and volunteers are at the heart of what we do. We support, train and nurture people that volunteer with us from all walks of life. They may be on a back to work placement scheme, working within our prison workshops, special needs students or university students. They help to refurbish computers, clean them of data and prepare them for shipping. In Africa, the programme delivers IT teaching training and technical support to all recipient schools and deals with the final disposal of computers in an environmentally friendly way.
Our Approach
What sets ITSA apart from other UK organisations sending refurbished computers to Africa is its uniquely holistic approach. In the UK, the programme supports the local community. We have welcomed over 1,000 volunteers to ITSA and volunteers are at the heart of what we do. We support, train and nurture people that volunteer with us from all walks of life. They may be on a back to work placement scheme, working within our prison workshops, special needs students or university students. They help to refurbish computers, clean them of data and prepare them for shipping. In Africa, the programme delivers IT teaching training and technical support to all recipient schools and deals with the final disposal of computers in an environmentally friendly way.
An IT Schools Africa shipment, Kenya 2017.
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Educating a Wider Audience
The computers which are donated to schools in Africa are used during school-time, but can also be set up for use at breakfast clubs or after school clubs - allowing the schools to make a small charge for their use. The money made from this can then be used to buy books, tables and chairs for the school. Using the computers outside normal school hours means that more people benefit from learning IT skills, furthering their education. |
A TECH Connect session in Cheltenham.
Improving Digital Inclusion in the UK
As well as sending computers to Africa; for 15 years the charity has donated equipment to local UK charities and community organisations. It has recently launched TECH Connect , a digital learning centre, an initiative in Cheltenham which is open to charities, elderly and unemployed people. It offers a range of IT training - free of charge - where people can to learn everything from basic internet use to managing their finances online. Lack of access to technology can result in digital exclusion and reduced access to resources and benefits, whilst also being a barrier to education, gaining employment, managing money (accessing Universal Credit) and making social connections. Those without access to computers can become isolated and disadvantaged. Our aim is to help those who need access to technology - low income families, people out of work, and people with disabilities, the elderly and refugees - so they can use it effectively. This helps them learn new skills, helps reduce social isolation, makes them better placed to apply for jobs and have access to online public services. It gives them access to life enhancing skills and knowledge so they can make more informed choices.
As well as sending computers to Africa; for 15 years the charity has donated equipment to local UK charities and community organisations. It has recently launched TECH Connect , a digital learning centre, an initiative in Cheltenham which is open to charities, elderly and unemployed people. It offers a range of IT training - free of charge - where people can to learn everything from basic internet use to managing their finances online. Lack of access to technology can result in digital exclusion and reduced access to resources and benefits, whilst also being a barrier to education, gaining employment, managing money (accessing Universal Credit) and making social connections. Those without access to computers can become isolated and disadvantaged. Our aim is to help those who need access to technology - low income families, people out of work, and people with disabilities, the elderly and refugees - so they can use it effectively. This helps them learn new skills, helps reduce social isolation, makes them better placed to apply for jobs and have access to online public services. It gives them access to life enhancing skills and knowledge so they can make more informed choices.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Our vision is where we work in Africa all students and members of their communities benefit from fully functioning e-Learning technology which offers life enhancing knowledge and skills, access to further education and improved opportunities for employment. IT Schools Africa can help to meet your organisation's CSR objectives, by developing a mutually beneficial partnership while you support a great cause.
Our vision is where we work in Africa all students and members of their communities benefit from fully functioning e-Learning technology which offers life enhancing knowledge and skills, access to further education and improved opportunities for employment. IT Schools Africa can help to meet your organisation's CSR objectives, by developing a mutually beneficial partnership while you support a great cause.
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Support the Global Goals and Sustainable Development
IT Schools Africa supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), otherwise known as the Global Goals. The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. These 17 Goals build on the successes of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which ran from 2000 to 2015. The SDG's are 17 goals tackling major world issues agreed by 193 UN member states to be achieved by 2030. 169 targets underpin the 17 goals. |
The Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations).
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How do we contribute and support the SDG's
We are contributing to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by transforming lives through access to e-Learning and providing quality education. We align ourselves mainly to the goals mentioned below however the goals are interconnected often the key to success on one will involve tackling issues more commonly associated with another.
We are contributing to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals by transforming lives through access to e-Learning and providing quality education. We align ourselves mainly to the goals mentioned below however the goals are interconnected often the key to success on one will involve tackling issues more commonly associated with another.
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Goal 4 - Quality Education
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. Access to e-Learning facilitates the provision of quality education, this is the foundation to improving lives and sustainable development. Goal 5 - Gender Equality Providing women and girls with equal access to education, health care, decent work and representation in political and economic decision-making processes will fuel sustainable economies and benefit societies and humanity at large. Goal 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth Sustainable economic growth will require conditions that allow people to have quality jobs that stimulate the economy and not harm the environment. Access to e-Learning increases job prospects, life opportunities and a brighter economic future. Goal 17 - Partnerships for the Goals Global Partnerships for sustainable development based on spirit of strengthened global solidarity. Collaboration brings better results and we are committed to working with our partners to transform the provision of quality education. |
9. What our donors say
We work with a number of generous businesses, schools, colleges and universities who regularly support IT Schools Africa by donating their IT equipment. We depend on these donations to make it possible for us to carry on sending out IT equipment to schools in Africa. Here are a few quotes from a number of our admirable equipment donors.
David Gridley, Humanities Inter-Faculty IT, University of Oxford
“I work at Oxford University and I have donated computer equipment to IT Schools Africa several times now. The process of donating is extremely easy and the staff are very helpful. Data is professionally and securely wiped and the charity is WEEE compliant. It is great to know that University computers will continue to be used in the further education of young people and contribute towards sustainable development”.
Christina Hinder, Operations Manager, Environmental Dimension Partnership
"We are very proud to be associated with IT Schools Africa, not only does it provide computer equipment for children in Africa, it also provides work for people in the UK. Using IT Schools Africa has been so simple – you contact them, they come and pick up your equipment and within the week, you get all the certificates to show you have not only donated to a good cause, but that you are helping the environment by recycling as much as we can."
John Hunt, IT Logistic Officer, Gloucestershire Constabulary
“Our computers contain more sensitive data than most and it’s only after they’re thoroughly and securely cleansed that they’re reconditioned and sent thousands of miles to schools on another continent…It’s nice to think that having helped us keep people safe from doing harm here in Gloucestershire, the machines are still ‘doing good’ by helping school children in Africa.”
Steve Holley, Head of ICT Customer and Business Support, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
“ITSA have worked extensively with Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust during their IT renewal processes. In total, IT Schools Africa have received over 1,500 flat screens and 200 computers since the charity began working with the Gloucestershire NHS in 2011.”
Tim Howe, IT Desktop Team Leader, Ecclesiastical
“To recycle our computers in the normal way would cost us money because we’re actually dealing with hazardous equipment—this is where the idea of using ITSA came about. I would highly recommend any organisation that has spare or surplus IT equipment to donate it to such a worthy cause…The process for picking up equipment was very easy. It was all straightforward, they were here when they said they would be and everything ran really smoothly.”
Sam Newton Taylor, STA Travel
“STA Travel have been donating computer equipment to IT Schools Africa for about 2 years and are thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful charity. It’s great to know that not only are we reducing waste but we are helping and providing for such a great cause.”
David Gridley, Humanities Inter-Faculty IT, University of Oxford
“I work at Oxford University and I have donated computer equipment to IT Schools Africa several times now. The process of donating is extremely easy and the staff are very helpful. Data is professionally and securely wiped and the charity is WEEE compliant. It is great to know that University computers will continue to be used in the further education of young people and contribute towards sustainable development”.
Christina Hinder, Operations Manager, Environmental Dimension Partnership
"We are very proud to be associated with IT Schools Africa, not only does it provide computer equipment for children in Africa, it also provides work for people in the UK. Using IT Schools Africa has been so simple – you contact them, they come and pick up your equipment and within the week, you get all the certificates to show you have not only donated to a good cause, but that you are helping the environment by recycling as much as we can."
John Hunt, IT Logistic Officer, Gloucestershire Constabulary
“Our computers contain more sensitive data than most and it’s only after they’re thoroughly and securely cleansed that they’re reconditioned and sent thousands of miles to schools on another continent…It’s nice to think that having helped us keep people safe from doing harm here in Gloucestershire, the machines are still ‘doing good’ by helping school children in Africa.”
Steve Holley, Head of ICT Customer and Business Support, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
“ITSA have worked extensively with Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust during their IT renewal processes. In total, IT Schools Africa have received over 1,500 flat screens and 200 computers since the charity began working with the Gloucestershire NHS in 2011.”
Tim Howe, IT Desktop Team Leader, Ecclesiastical
“To recycle our computers in the normal way would cost us money because we’re actually dealing with hazardous equipment—this is where the idea of using ITSA came about. I would highly recommend any organisation that has spare or surplus IT equipment to donate it to such a worthy cause…The process for picking up equipment was very easy. It was all straightforward, they were here when they said they would be and everything ran really smoothly.”
Sam Newton Taylor, STA Travel
“STA Travel have been donating computer equipment to IT Schools Africa for about 2 years and are thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful charity. It’s great to know that not only are we reducing waste but we are helping and providing for such a great cause.”
10. Accreditations
The Environment Agency and Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2010 confirm that IT Schools Africa are registered to carry out the repair or refurbishment of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment under waste exemption T11 of the above Regulations at Unit 8, Mead Road Industrial Estate, Mead Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 7EF. The exemption reference is: NC1/060909/2017.
11. Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. I have an old computer, do you want it?
Yes, but it has to be in working order. We take all brands; preferably, the computer is no more than six to seven years old and it must run Windows 7 or Dual Core and above. We are no longer able to accept any old white equipment (including computers) as we have a responsibility to supply equipment that is in keeping with modern technology.
2. I found a computer which I could possibly donate, but I am unsure whether it will meet your requirements?
Here is a full list of our equipment specifications. If you are still unsure, feel free to give us a call on +44 (0)1242 228800 or visit us at IT Schools Africa, Unit 8, Mead Road Industrial Estate, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, GL53 7EF and someone will be happy to answer any queries you may have.
3. Do you take laptops?
Yes, we do take laptops but we would prefer them to be donated alongside a laptop charger where possible. Laptop requirements are the same as the computer specifications stated previously.
4. What if I am able to donate cables, keyboards and other accessories without a computer, would you still be interested?
Yes we have a high demand for all computer accessories too; we take USB keyboards (not PS2) as well as mice, power leads, cables, RAM and hard drive.
5. Can you recycle telephones?
Yes, we take tablets and smart mobile phones which are in working order and ideally with the devices charger – they can be up to a maximum of six years old. Please make sure that the user accounts on iPads or iPhones have been deleted and the device is unlocked. Devices cannot be refurbished if the existing user account is still active on the device. You can read more about how to remove personal information here. We take data security very seriously, please ensure you have reset your phone to factory settings so your data is deleted from your device.
Unfortunately, we are unable to take office telephone systems.
6. What are your requirements in regard to printers?
We also take small-sized printers which are in working order however; we only take black and white LaserJet printers which are HP, Samsung or Canon. We are also able to take unopened and used printer cartridges where possible.
7. I have some old, broken IT equipment, can I recycle this at IT Schools Africa?
Regrettably, as we are a charity and rely heavily on volunteers and donations, we are unable to receive any broken IT equipment. This is a time-consuming process which we unfortunately do not have the power to manage, as we are primarily volunteer-led. For any equipment that we can't accept, please contact your local civic amenity centre to find out about recycling collections in your area.
8. Why don’t you take IT kit that is more than seven years old?
Unfortunately, we are only able to accept equipment that is no more than six to seven years old as we have a responsibility to supply equipment which is able to keep up to date with modern technology and remain compatible.
9. Do you collect?
Yes, IT Schools Africa are able to collect IT equipment donations from anywhere within a three-hour driving radius from their Cheltenham HQ. Please contact us for more information using the contact details page on our website.
10. Do you clear the data on my computer?
We take data security very seriously and to ensure that all data is wiped from the machines, we use specialist approved software by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC provides guidance to the public and private sector on information assurance. We can provide data erasure certificates upon request.
11. Do you put software onto the computers?
Yes, we load educational resources onto the computers for students so that they can be used offline. We use Khan Academy, a non-profit organisation which uses online tools to help educate students, for example they produce short lessons in the form of videos (Khan Academy). In addition, we also use RACHEL; a portable plug-and-play server storing education websites which can be easily accessed offline (World Possible).
12. Where will be donated computers and equipment be used?
In Africa and in the UK for educational and social projects.
In Africa IT Schools Africa is committed to putting in place the infrastructure necessary to ensure the computers reach the intended beneficiaries and are used effectively. Our core countries are Kenya, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe and so far, we have provided over five million children in Africa with access to digital education. We have also provided 30 complete e-Learning labs to schools in Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe; typically the labs have between 30 and 45 networked computers, laser printer, Internet access, digital projector and a teacher’s laptop. For more information on our projects in Africa, please go to our website.
In the UK we also donate computers to charities and community organisations to increase digital inclusion. To date 9,000 learners in the UK have been given digital skills support.
13. What happens to the computers when they arrive in Africa?
The equipment is carefully and securely packed and palletised and six to eight weeks later, the computers are delivered to our NGO partners in Africa. Our NGO’s are like sister charities to ourselves and are made up of a technical centre in each location, run by a local programme manager and supported by trained technicians. The NGO charities deal directly with the schools to ensure the technology is valued and looked after. On arrival, the first thing the team will do is to check and make sure that it hasn’t been damaged during shipping - and is fully functioning. The teams will also train and provide technical support and guidance for teachers and schools.
Yes, but it has to be in working order. We take all brands; preferably, the computer is no more than six to seven years old and it must run Windows 7 or Dual Core and above. We are no longer able to accept any old white equipment (including computers) as we have a responsibility to supply equipment that is in keeping with modern technology.
2. I found a computer which I could possibly donate, but I am unsure whether it will meet your requirements?
Here is a full list of our equipment specifications. If you are still unsure, feel free to give us a call on +44 (0)1242 228800 or visit us at IT Schools Africa, Unit 8, Mead Road Industrial Estate, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, GL53 7EF and someone will be happy to answer any queries you may have.
3. Do you take laptops?
Yes, we do take laptops but we would prefer them to be donated alongside a laptop charger where possible. Laptop requirements are the same as the computer specifications stated previously.
4. What if I am able to donate cables, keyboards and other accessories without a computer, would you still be interested?
Yes we have a high demand for all computer accessories too; we take USB keyboards (not PS2) as well as mice, power leads, cables, RAM and hard drive.
5. Can you recycle telephones?
Yes, we take tablets and smart mobile phones which are in working order and ideally with the devices charger – they can be up to a maximum of six years old. Please make sure that the user accounts on iPads or iPhones have been deleted and the device is unlocked. Devices cannot be refurbished if the existing user account is still active on the device. You can read more about how to remove personal information here. We take data security very seriously, please ensure you have reset your phone to factory settings so your data is deleted from your device.
Unfortunately, we are unable to take office telephone systems.
6. What are your requirements in regard to printers?
We also take small-sized printers which are in working order however; we only take black and white LaserJet printers which are HP, Samsung or Canon. We are also able to take unopened and used printer cartridges where possible.
7. I have some old, broken IT equipment, can I recycle this at IT Schools Africa?
Regrettably, as we are a charity and rely heavily on volunteers and donations, we are unable to receive any broken IT equipment. This is a time-consuming process which we unfortunately do not have the power to manage, as we are primarily volunteer-led. For any equipment that we can't accept, please contact your local civic amenity centre to find out about recycling collections in your area.
8. Why don’t you take IT kit that is more than seven years old?
Unfortunately, we are only able to accept equipment that is no more than six to seven years old as we have a responsibility to supply equipment which is able to keep up to date with modern technology and remain compatible.
9. Do you collect?
Yes, IT Schools Africa are able to collect IT equipment donations from anywhere within a three-hour driving radius from their Cheltenham HQ. Please contact us for more information using the contact details page on our website.
10. Do you clear the data on my computer?
We take data security very seriously and to ensure that all data is wiped from the machines, we use specialist approved software by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC provides guidance to the public and private sector on information assurance. We can provide data erasure certificates upon request.
11. Do you put software onto the computers?
Yes, we load educational resources onto the computers for students so that they can be used offline. We use Khan Academy, a non-profit organisation which uses online tools to help educate students, for example they produce short lessons in the form of videos (Khan Academy). In addition, we also use RACHEL; a portable plug-and-play server storing education websites which can be easily accessed offline (World Possible).
12. Where will be donated computers and equipment be used?
In Africa and in the UK for educational and social projects.
In Africa IT Schools Africa is committed to putting in place the infrastructure necessary to ensure the computers reach the intended beneficiaries and are used effectively. Our core countries are Kenya, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe and so far, we have provided over five million children in Africa with access to digital education. We have also provided 30 complete e-Learning labs to schools in Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe; typically the labs have between 30 and 45 networked computers, laser printer, Internet access, digital projector and a teacher’s laptop. For more information on our projects in Africa, please go to our website.
In the UK we also donate computers to charities and community organisations to increase digital inclusion. To date 9,000 learners in the UK have been given digital skills support.
13. What happens to the computers when they arrive in Africa?
The equipment is carefully and securely packed and palletised and six to eight weeks later, the computers are delivered to our NGO partners in Africa. Our NGO’s are like sister charities to ourselves and are made up of a technical centre in each location, run by a local programme manager and supported by trained technicians. The NGO charities deal directly with the schools to ensure the technology is valued and looked after. On arrival, the first thing the team will do is to check and make sure that it hasn’t been damaged during shipping - and is fully functioning. The teams will also train and provide technical support and guidance for teachers and schools.
12. Further information
Please visit our website at https://www.itschoolsafrica.org/ for further information.
For all general enquiries call +44 (0)1242 228800 or email contact@itschoolsafrica.org.
Alternatively, visit us at:
IT Schools Africa
Unit 8
Mead Road Industrial Estate
Leckhampton
Cheltenham
GL53 7EF
For more information on computer recycling and disposal, please see below:
For all general enquiries call +44 (0)1242 228800 or email contact@itschoolsafrica.org.
Alternatively, visit us at:
IT Schools Africa
Unit 8
Mead Road Industrial Estate
Leckhampton
Cheltenham
GL53 7EF
For more information on computer recycling and disposal, please see below:
13. Enquiry Form
If you have any enquiries, please fill out the form below and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
