Retired computers from Stellenbosch University's Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences are helping to advance education, skills development and rehabilitation in the Stellenbosch community and beyond.

Computers that once served students in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) are now making a meaningful difference in an early learning centre, a church and a correctional facility.

The donation initiative was sparked during a recent upgrade of one of the Faculty's computer user areas. Rather than selling the Dell All-in-One desktop computers that were being replaced, Mrs Heena Jivan, Head of IT and Operations in EMS, saw an opportunity to extend their value beyond the University's walls.

"While upgrading the computers in one of the Faculty's computer user areas, I thought of using some for a community outreach programme," said Jivan. "Computers that are being replaced are usually sold. I thought, why not donate some of the available computers to worthy recipients in the community?"

After consulting with her team, two organisations were identified as beneficiaries, while a third request was received through the University. A total of 14 computers were donated, with four going to Junior Akademie, five to St Mary's Anglican Church and five to the Ubuntu Learning Community.

Supporting early childhood education

Junior Akademie, an early learning centre in Stellenbosch, serves 135 children between the ages of four months and five years and employs 27 staff members.

According to Principal Mrs Lorain du Plessis Smit, access to computers will significantly improve the centre's day-to-day operations by assisting teachers with preparation, administration and communication.

The donation will also support staff members who are pursuing further studies while working full-time.

"Junior Akademie has six staff members who are furthering their studies this year but who do not have access to personal computers or laptops," said Du Plessis Smit.

"Balancing full-time work – from early mornings at 6:30 to late afternoons at 17:30 – with studies is already a significant challenge. Having access to personal computers greatly eases this burden and strongly supports their academic success."

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Enabling ministry and youth development

The second recipient, St Mary's Anglican Church on the Braak in Stellenbosch, plans to use the donated computers to strengthen both its administrative capacity and community outreach initiatives.

The church identified a need for adequate IT equipment to support the implementation of a new local network-based church management system and to enhance its Sunday school ministry.

Beyond these immediate needs, the computers will also help the church expand opportunities for youth development through basic computer training, skills development and educational support programmes.

The Rector of St Mary's, the Rev Canon Enrico Heuvel, said such opportunities are particularly important in equipping young people with valuable digital skills for education and future employment while fostering responsible digital citizenship within a faith-based environment.

Expressing his gratitude, Heuvel said, "On behalf of the Parish of St Mary's, I would like to express our heartfelt thanks for the donated computers. Your generosity has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our work and outreach. In a time where digital access plays such a vital role in education and ministry, your contribution has truly empowered us to serve more effectively and faithfully."

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Advancing education behind bars

The third beneficiary was the Ubuntu Learning Community (ULC), a pioneering partnership between SU and the Department of Correctional Services at Brandvlei Correctional Centre.

The initiative, the first of its kind in South Africa, brings together SU students and incarcerated students in a shared learning environment where they complete an interdisciplinary, SU-accredited short course presented by University academics. The programme seeks to challenge stereotypes and promote transformation through collaborative, ubuntu-centred learning.

Following completion of the course, ULC continues to provide social and academic support to alumni during incarceration and after their release.

Dr Mary Nel, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Public Law and Director of the Ubuntu Learning Community, explained that former and current ULC students are continuing their studies through UNISA but lack access to the technology needed to support their learning.

"Desktops donated by EMS are loaned to needy and deserving students to help them make a success of their studies," said Dr Nel. "We therefore have many students who benefit from the Faculty's generosity."

Extending impact beyond campus

What began as a routine technology upgrade has evolved into an initiative that supports learning and development across very different stages of life and community contexts. From early childhood education at Junior Akademie, to youth development and digital skills training at St Mary's Anglican Church, and higher education opportunities for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students through the Ubuntu Learning Community, the donated computers are helping to expand access to knowledge, opportunity and connection.

“In doing so, the initiative reflects how resources that have served their purpose on campus can continue to make a meaningful impact far beyond the University — empowering learning, growth and transformation, one computer at a time,” Jivan remarked.