News from our businesses and markets

Computers are important tools in all schools, no matter how small or remote the community.

Faced with a shortage of computers for students attending Deninu School, principal Kate Powell contacted De Beers. The school is in Fort Resolution, a community of about 500 people located on the southeast shore of Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories.

De Beers Superintendent of Community Relations Elizabeth Biscaye said the company was able to step in with a $5,000 donation to purchase 10 laptops. "In today's world, students who don't have access to computers are at a disadvantage," said Biscaye. "De Beers is committed to working with our community partners on education and literacy and this initiative will help provide long-term benefits as students access new and exciting information.”

 The computers were quickly introduced to the classroom and are now being used by students from Grades 4-12.

 One of the first plans for the new laptops involved students incorporating technology into projects created for the school's heritage fair. The computers have had a big impact on the school as students began producing videos and PowerPoint slide shows of local pursuits such as jigging and dog mushing.

  “They felt empowered that they had up to date computers that were reliable and did not break down,” said Powell. “That has resulted in less frustration with technology and has helped increase students’ sense of success.”

 In the NWT, De Beers operates the Snap Lake Mine and is advancing the proposed Gahcho Kué Project through permitting. De Beers also operates the Victor Mine in Northern Ontario.