KEEP Foundation donates $140k in digital tools to Nadi school

Two hundred and fifty students at Hindu Maha Sabha School in Nadi will gain access to digital learning after a major donation from the United States–based KEEP Foundation.

The KEEP Foundation delivered more than $140,000 worth of laptops and school supplies to the rural school, expanding access to technology for its 250 students.

Foundation founder Ray Presley said the initiative was personal because his wife’s father, Shiu Govind Sharan, served as the school’s head teacher in the 1980s.

“We’re excited to support this school in a meaningful way,” Mr Presley said.

“These are small tokens of our appreciation, but we appreciate these students even more. It’s refreshing to see children who truly want to be in school and strive for the next level in life.”

The delegation hand-carried more than 40 laptops and iPads into the country to avoid customs delays.

They also donated 50 pairs of shoes and 50 backpacks filled with school supplies.

Mr Presley said the major challenge was getting the equipment and school supplies into the country.

“Close to 35 people had to bring the laptops and backpacks into the country because we wanted to make sure they got where they needed to be.

“We didn’t want to risk sending it by mail; maybe customs might stop it. We wanted to make sure they arrived safely and directly to the students,” he said.

Head teacher Neel Kant said the donation was a milestone for the rural school.

“We did not have enough resources, and receiving these laptops will allow teachers to carry out computer lessons and help students use digital technology in their learning,” Mr Kant said.

The school has allocated a room for a dedicated computer lab, with plans for air conditioning and upgraded internet.

Mr Kant said the donation would help put the school on track.

“We are really grateful to the Presley family, the KEEP Foundation, and the team for their contributions. They are the foundation upon which we will build our future. May God bless them."