University calculator donation adds to learning for school students

A donation of scientific calculators by The University of Queensland to Brisbane high schools has given disadvantaged students a boost in their studies.

In total, 202 calculators and 116 USB memory sticks were donated to Yeronga State High School and Kelvin Grove State College.

Having a high population of refugee students and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, the donation of learning equipment was greatly appreciated.

It is the first time UQ has donated calculators and USB sticks, having already established projects giving sun and prescription glasses to developing countries through the Lions Club and textbooks to the UQ Alumni Association to sell to students at reduced prices.

Yeronga High School Principal Terry Heath said the donation is greatly appreciated.

“The calculators will greatly enhance the school’s ability to lift Science and Maths opportunities for students,” Mr Heath said.

“Currently, only some senior students have access to scientific calculators, however this donation will assist us to enable all students to have access to this level of equipment, regardless of socio-economic ability,” he said.

UQ Security runs the calculator and USB stick donation project. The learning equipment, which is lost property, used to be sold to Government auction. Little financial benefit was gained for the valuable items at auction and donation was considered an alternative solution.

UQ Secretary and Registrar Douglas Porter said UQ Security Manager Warren Collyer and colleague Melissa Petrie came up with the concept.

“It is important to give valuable learning equipment to those who require the resources to benefit learning, when otherwise they may not have access to them,” Mr Porter said.

“The project also allows UQ to remain in contact with Brisbane high schools and to play and important role in supporting Maths and Science education in the state,” he said.

Media: For further information, contact Elizabeth Kerr at UQ Communications on 07 3365 2339.

*Hi resolution photos are available from Diana Lilley on 07 3365 2753, d.lilley@uq.edu.au