School Computer Donation
The Computer Works Uganda school computer donation programme helps schools and communities across Uganda build modern, sustainable computer labs. Every year, we give 10% of our annual revenue to equip eligible schools with computers. In addition, our partners, Microsoft and the Global Technology Access Foundation, contribute hardware and software. As a result, more young people gain the digital skills they need to learn, work and compete.
Why We Support Schools
For many children in Uganda, a computer is still something they only hear about. Well-equipped labs are mostly found in urban schools. Meanwhile, learners in remote villages and informal settlements join the job market without digital skills.
Our founder, John Kyakuwa, knows this gap well. He was born in Nkuke, a village in Masaka District, and saw his first computer when an elder brother returned from abroad. He later studied networking at Makerere University by attending midnight classes. Then, in 2005, he founded Computer Works Uganda and began teaching computer literacy on a single Pentium II computer. Today, that same commitment drives our school computer donation work.
“A child in a remote village should have the same opportunity to learn technology as a child in any major city.” — John Kyakuwa, Executive Director
The Impact of Our School Computer Donations
Our donated labs reach more than 700 people in disadvantaged communities every year. Beneficiaries include:
- Kangole Girls Training School (Karamoja), Lango College (Lira), Maluku Secondary School (Mbale) and Lifeline Secondary School (Bukedea)
- St. Charles Lwanga Girls Training College (Kalungu), Mutorere Primary School (Kisoro), Buddo Christian Secondary School and Glad Tidings College
- Frontline Institute of Medical Science, Hoima City: 20 internet-connected computers in 2025
- Katwe community ICT lab, Kampala: 20 computers serving over 200 young people, school dropouts and single mothers
- Uplands High School, Mutundwe: upgraded from 6 to 20 users with Windows MultiPoint Server
- Sure Prospects Institute, Entebbe: an accessible lab for learners with special needs
In the news
Donated Computer Labs in Action
Here are some of the labs our school computer donation programme has helped to set up, together with our partners.
Video: Kangole Girls Training College computer lab
How the School Computer Donation Works
From 2010, we donated labs completely free. However, by 2018 we learned that schools did not always feel ownership of free equipment. Some labs failed, and the schools lacked the budget to repair them. Therefore, we moved to a 1:1 matching model. For example, if a school needs 20 computers, the school buys 10 and Computer Works Uganda donates 10. This shared responsibility keeps labs running for years.
Please note that we make only three (3) donations per year. As a result, donations for the current year may already be partly or fully allocated.
What each donated lab includes
- Energy-efficient Windows MultiPoint Server systems with Microsoft-licensed software
- Offline educational and research content
- Internet service for the first 3–6 months (including installation where no connection exists)
- Professional installation and teacher orientation
- Maintenance support through an annual service agreement, backed by our computer lab management team
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, your school must:
- Submit a formal application letter stating why you need computers and how the school community will benefit.
- Provide a brief school profile, including your website if available.
- Have a qualified ICT teacher on staff.
- Be willing to match the donation on a 1:1 basis.
- Finalise or submit a payment plan for your matching contribution.
Application and Selection Process
Step 1: Shortlisting and assessment
First, we review all applications and shortlist eligible schools. Next, the school hosts a site assessment by a Computer Works Uganda technician or authorised agent. Then our vetting team, headed by the Director, reviews the report together with our partner donors.
Step 2: Donor review and approval
After that, we arrange an online meeting between the school’s Board of Directors and ICT teacher, Computer Works Uganda representatives and our partner donors.
Step 3: Donation commitment
If approved, the school will be notified and must provide:
- An internet service quote. We cover the first 3–6 months of internet, plus installation if the school has no connection.
- A down payment. For instalment payments, at least 70% is paid upfront. The balance can be paid monthly (no interest) or termly (15% interest).
- A standing order or bank draft for the remaining balance.
- A signed Sales Credit Agreement (provided by Computer Works Uganda).
- A signed Annual Service Agreement for maintenance and support.
Step 4: Delivery and installation
Finally, we deliver and install the computers once all payments are made, all documents are received and all agreements are signed.
If a donation is not approved, the school may still purchase its intended order, complete the requirements and reapply in a later year.
Apply for a School Computer Donation
To apply, email your application letter, school profile and ICT teacher details to info@computerworksug.com. We welcome open communication. So, if anything is unclear, we are happy to meet and review your application and requirements together.
Please note: even after approval, Computer Works Uganda and its partners reserve the right to withdraw a donation if misleading information was provided during the assessment.
Slowly by slowly, the lion’s journey begins with a single step. We look forward to walking this journey with your school. You can also call us on +256 701 385898 or visit our Kampala office.
