HMD, the maker of Nokia phones, has teamed up with the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation for a multifaceted initiative to empower underprivileged youth and communities in India.
Even though tablets and smartphones have become essential for students, many from less privileged backgrounds face substantial challenges due to financial constraints, hindering access to smart devices. Both organizations are committed to addressing this digital gap and improving e-learning opportunities for all students.
The collaboration aims to provide smart devices to disadvantaged students in the Delhi NCR region, addressing the challenges of affordability and accessibility in advancing e-learning opportunities in India.
In addition to the distribution of smart devices, the initiative includes a plantation drive and awareness-raising programs about e-waste and sustainability, including UPI payments, among underprivileged communities.
The inaugural distribution event occurred at NeeV – A Learning Centre in Village Nangli Umarpur, Golf Course Extension, Gurugram. Ravi Kunwar (VP, India & APAC, HMD Global) and key leaders from both organizations were present.
HMD took the opportunity to raise awareness among school children at NeeV about e-waste management and initiated a tree plantation campaign at the school.
During the event, Ravi Kunwar, VP of India & APAC, HMD Global, said,
This initiative seamlessly aligns with HMD commitment to ensuring universal access to affordable, durable, and eco-conscious technology. Collaborating with the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, a partner that shares our values of creating profound and sustainable impacts in people’s lives, brings us immense joy and serves as a manifesto for our dedication to reducing e-waste. At HMD, our mission is to empower individuals with the right technology while championing sustainable practices.
Amitesh Shah, CEO of DA-ONE (a Shikhar Dhawan initiative), emphasized,
Technology access is indispensable for lifelong learning, transcending geographical boundaries. Through this initiative, our aim is to empower students, enabling them to make significant contributions to their communities. Our collaboration for this endeavour enables us to extend our reach to underprivileged school children, providing them with the tools to reshape the future with a wealth of resources at their disposal.
Dr. Kanika Dewan, Director of Impact and Strategy at the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating,
We are delighted to collaborate on this initiative aimed at enhancing e-learning accessibility in India. While technology has played a remarkable role in expanding the reach and enhancing the quality of education, basic smart devices remain a luxury for a significant portion of the country. By providing these essential tools to our promising young minds, we are making a substantial investment in the future. Our commitment persists in working towards ensuring that every student has access to quality education.