INTEL Malaysia has come forward to support the ‘E-Learning Computer Program’ introduced by the state government recently by contributing RM250,000.
The amount was used to purchase new laptops for eligible students as a loan for a period of six months to help them take part in e-learning.
State Women and Family Development, Gender Inclusiveness & Religions Other Than Islam Committee chairman Chong Eng said that no one should be left behind with regard to the e-learning.
“A total of 90 students (first batch) so far have been approved of the loan application and they can use the laptops for six months (June till November) for free of charge,’’ said Chong Eng during the laptop handover ceremony at the PSC today.
“This programme is a joint effort between Intel Malaysia and Penang Science Cluster (PSC) whereby a total of 125 laptops were purchased by the PSC using the donation.
“The most essential tool in e-learning is definitely having a computer, thus this initiative will be helpful for those students who have some financial difficulties. It is important to ensure that all students get equal opportunity when it comes to learning,’’ she added.
Meanwhile, Intel Malaysia representative S.B. Ngoo said that the programme was a part of the company’s pledge to donate over RM2 million to help healthcare professionals and other related agencies in combating the Covid-19 outbreak.
“Intel is donating RM250,000, which is part of the RM2 million fund announced earlier, and we have partnered with PSC to deliver the laptops to the students.
“This is in line with ‘Intel Online Learning Initiative’ with the goal of supporting education-focused non-profit organisations and business partners to provide students without access to technology with devices and online learning resources,’’ Ngoo said.
He added that Intel has also contributed money to purchase test kits, ventilators, patient monitors and air purifiers for general hospital in Penang and Kedah.
Chong Eng called upon all parties to come forward and assist students who are in need of help pertaining to the e-learning.
“Perhaps, organisations and companies can emulate the initiatives undertaken by Intel. They can also contribute old laptops which can be refurbished and we can give it free to those needy students,’’ she said.
According to PSC director of operations Aimy Lee, the applications for the laptops were sent by the respective schools.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis