Tech Desk 
Dec 06, 2024
The ministry of federal education & professional training on Friday was given approval to buy 200,000 refurbished Chromebooks for students in ICT schools and colleges.
This decision was made to save costs, as new laptops and Chromebooks are very expensive, costing over Rs200,000 and Rs100,000 respectively.
One refurbished Chromebook goes for around Rs5,000 to Rs15,000 in the market and would significantly cost less if intended to be used for teaching.
As procurement rules stated, there were specific terms which asserted that all required items should be bought brand new, without opening their pack. It requested to exempt that since the burden will be heaved upon the national treasury budget.
The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) agreed to this request by permitting the ministry to purchase refurbished Chromebooks through open competitive bidding.
This is part of a more extensive move to upgrade the education infrastructure in ICT schools and colleges. The ministry is renovating school buildings and upgrading IT labs with the latest technology, including laptops, smart screens, and Chromebooks.
Notably, by opting for refurbished Chromebooks, the ministry aims to equip more students with necessary IT gadgets without overspending and to provide them with quality education and modern facilities, ensuring they have the tools to succeed in today’s digital world.
