The Digital School, part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), has launched the second edition of its campaign Donate Your Own Device, with the aim of collecting 100,000 used electronic devices to support underprivileged students globally. The initiative, run in collaboration with Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) and Ecyclex, promotes digital access, environmental sustainability, and educational equity.
Building on the success of its first edition, the initiative has now been made a permanent programme, reflecting the UAE’s broader vision of responsible innovation, social empowerment, and sustainable giving.
“This campaign is not just about collecting devices, but about creating lasting social and environmental impact,” said Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, and Chairman of the Digital School Board. “It represents the UAE’s strategic approach to combining technology, sustainability, and humanitarian work.”
From Waste to Learning Tools: A Model of Circular Education
The initiative collects and refurbishes donated laptops, tablets, and smart devices from individuals and organisations. Devices unsuitable for reuse are responsibly recycled in line with international environmental practices, reducing up to 200 tonnes of electronic waste and cutting 122 tonnes of CO₂ emissions during the previous cycle.
The first edition in 2023 exceeded expectations, collecting 50,000 devices through contributions from over 100 public and private entities. Environmental benefits included the recycling of 120 tonnes of e-waste, the saving of 170,000 litres of fuel, and the protection of 32,000 square feet of land from toxic waste.
The Digital School has now distributed refurbished devices to students across 33 countries, enhancing access to digital education for more than 500,000 learners, especially in underserved, refugee, and conflict-affected communities.
Community Involvement And Corporate Participation Key To Expansion
Citizens and institutions can contribute through various channels:
- Donate devices or funds via www.donateyourowndevice.org
- SMS donations (Etisalat: 2441, Du: 3551)
- Engage in institutional partnerships coordinated with the Emirates Red Crescent
“This is a pioneering model that integrates charitable, developmental, and environmental goals,” said Al Olama. “It enables students from marginalised societies to access quality digital education through repurposed technologies.”
Strategic Partnerships Drive Scalability
The campaign is supported by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and operated with technical partner Ecyclex, ensuring global compliance in device recycling. The initiative also aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education.
Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent Board, reaffirmed support for the programme, describing it as a “qualitative humanitarian initiative” that reflects the UAE’s leadership in global knowledge development and digital inclusion.
“The Digital School has already transformed education access for thousands of displaced and disadvantaged children. Its mission reflects the UAE’s growing influence in building resilient, digitally connected communities,” he added.
The first edition honoured key institutional supporters, including Dubai Police, Emirates NBD, Emirates Airlines, DP World Foundation, and the American University of Sharjah, who were recognised for their role in promoting sustainability and social responsibility.
–Input WAM
