TWELVE schools across the country received 139 laptops as part of KPMG Fiji’s initiative to enhancing access to digital learning for students across Fiji and the Pacific.
The accounting firm’s Laptops for Lifelong Learning initiative, launched in Australia in 2022, has now expanded for students in Fiji.
In Australia, the initiative has already provided more than 1000 refurbished laptops and digital inclusion support to students across Australia since its launch.
Fiji schools on the list to receive laptops as part of this initiative are Nadi Special Education Centre, Votulevu Public, Nausori Primary School, Tavua Primary, Ratu Kadavulevu School, Namalala District School, Adi Maopa School, Levuka Public School. St John’s College, Noi Koro District School, Vakacereivalu Memorial Primary and Ra High School.
Partnering with LiteHaus International, KPMG Fiji aims to help close the digital divide through the donation of the laptops which can be used in Primary and High school learning.
KPMG Fiji managing partner Lisa Apted said the program is expected to support approximately 10,000 students by providing them with much needed access to technology.
“We are delighted to be able to work with LiteHaus to provide laptops for local computer labs across Fiji schools,” Ms Apted said.
“The first donation of laptops will be utilised in 12 schools with this number extended over time.”
The laptops, once used by KPMG employees, were reformatted for student use with computer labs being set up by LiteHaus, an Australian NGO and KPMG partner with a focus on digital equity programs and bridging digital divide in Asia and the Pacific.
Ms Apted said the donation was KPMG’s version of ‘pay it forward’.
“We have many KPMG people working across our firm who may have been the first in their family to go to university or know what it was like to grow up without ready access to technology.
“Our people know how powerful it can be to have the tools to elevate your studies — and open doors to new opportunities for the next generation,” Ms Apted said.
“The laptops program not only provides the students with technology but also equips them with the skills they need to use the technology effectively.”
The collaboration will ensure that devices are ready to use, and schools receive necessary training to maximise their benefit.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated August 13, 2025