Turning Waste into Educational Wonder

Lenovo has introduced its #Waste2Wonder program, a school project based on hands-on experience, where unboxing a Lenovo device becomes a journey of discovery into STEM subjects. Imagine a student opening a Lenovo device and finding more than just hardware, but an opportunity to learn the fundamentals of how electronic devices are made. A quick scan of a QR code sets them on a path of exploration, they are directed to cut along the lines on the internal packaging to create an educational tool which teaches students about electric circuits and forces – both of which are integral within the STEM curriculum.

 

The aim of the project is to uncover a unique, seamless blend of sustainability and STEM development. This innovative approach sets Lenovo apart in the market and allows them to offer something truly exceptional to both educators and parents, closing the loop in a sustainable way. Its packaging is designed with educational requirements in mind, ensuring it doesn’t end up in landfill but becomes a valuable resource for educational adventures. It will be available on all Chromebook and Winbook Education devices from October.

 

The initiative is custom-tailored for teachers, schools and parents with kids up to the age of 16. Introducing STEM concepts at a young age can instil a love for learning and curiosity about the world. It encourages lifelong learning and adaptability in an ever-changing job market.

 

As part of the initiative, schools can participate in the EMEA School Competition from September 18th to November 30th 2023. Step-by-step instructions are available on the dedicated website to guide participants in the STEM activities and projects. The winning groups will walk away with impressive prizes, including Lenovo Winbook, Intel Skill for Innovation modules, LanSchool Software, Arduino kits and the prestige of inclusion in the 2024-2025 Lenovo Digital Booklet. The awards will be recognised at the renowned Bett 2024 event.

 

Manuela Lavezzari, EMEA Education Marketing Director at Lenovo, stated: "We have a firm commitment to enhancing technology access in schools and raising awareness about environmental and social issues. This initiative exemplifies the power of collective intelligence and dedication to fostering innovative solutions, serving as a model for ESG efforts. It all began with a roundtable discussion involving education resellers a year ago. We brought together experts in STEM pedagogy, the environment, packaging, design, and more to make it a reality. We hope teachers and students will appreciate what we have prepared for them, and we eagerly anticipate the next innovation.

 

The STEM Alliance, who have co-organised the competition with Lenovo outlined why initiatives like this are important for the education system. A spokesperson from the company said: “The STEM Alliance is glad to co-organise the Turning Waste into Educational Wonder competition with Lenovo. We aim to promote STEM education through sustainability-driven projects and inspire young students to pursue STEM careers by engaging them with hands-on and pedagogical activities, such as the creative projects proposed in Lenovo Activity Booklet.”

 

About Lenovo

Lenovo (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY) is a US$62 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #217 in the Fortune Global 500, employing 77,000 people around the world, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver smarter technology for all, Lenovo has built on its success as the world's largest PC company by further expanding into growth areas that fuel the advancement of 'New IT' technologies (client, edge, cloud, network, and intelligence) including server, storage, mobile, software, solutions, and services. This transformation together with Lenovo's world-changing innovation is building a more inclusive, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere.