By its very nature, the computer technology world is a rapidly changing industry in which new innovations mean the disposal of hardware that is obsolete, yet in relatively good condition on a frequent basis. Our Chelezo High School students had their planned Computer Studies field trip to the Computer for Schools Kenya (CFSK) in Nairobi as mentioned in our blog post ‘The Digital Age.’ The students were excited for the opportunity to visit the center to learn more about various aspects of a multifaceted computer business that goes beyond computer programming.
The students first observed the CFSK computer refurbishment center where the students experienced a degaussing data destruction machine, which is used to destroy private data from computers that are slated to be refurbished. Our students, thereafter also observed the mass cloning of data, in a process that makes it easy to deploy many computer units with identical installation of applications and data.
CFSK’s Electronic Waste Management department collects decommissioned computers from organizations for free, which they then disassemble for parts. Our Chelezo students had the opportunity to learn about the disposal of hazardous computer components, such as lead and mercury, watched the crushing of plastic computer components to get the raw material used for creating fencing posts, and also saw the packaging of motherboards, which are then exported to CFSK’s partners who mine minerals such as gold in a process known as E-mining.
Our students also witnessed the cathode ray tubes being dismantled using equipment called a CRT cutter. Our Chelezo students' visit to the CFSK’s Electronic Waste Management was a very interactive session, in which they engaged in dialogue with CFSK expert staff, as they learned about the various aspects of recycling in technology.
The final department our students visited was the battery reassembly plant where CFSK staff collect lithium iron phosphate batteries from waste electronics, and refurbish and restack them to create rechargeable batteries. To complete their visit, our students had the opportunity to experience an electric car powered by a group of these batteries which drive about 93 miles on a single charge.
As the world grapples with the environmental impact of digital technology, this field trip was another opportunity to significantly expand our students' horizons, as they saw the many strides the private industry in Africa is making towards responsible and innovative environmental solutions. Our Chelezo students were inspired by their time at CFSK as they also interacted with staff who explained their work, educating our students on the various careers and potential opportunities the industry holds for hardworking, innovative individuals. When you give to eduKenya, you are helping the next generation of Kenyan students become a part of the solution to the various challenges we face as we continue to enjoy the benefits of living in this digital age.