obsolescence schmobsolescence?

I would rather have access to a PC that could only run Win98/NT/2000 or stripped down GNU/Linux than no PC at all. If I want to learn some ICT skills, how am I going to do that with no hope of affording even an obsolete PC, let alone an up-to-date one?

The PCs supplied by Computer Aid *are being used* and there is clearly a continuing demand for them. They are helping kids in Africa (and elsewhere) to be computer-literate. They are breaking down the digital divide and taking another step towards levelling the playing field for these nations in the global economy.

Sure, it's only a small step - there are other aspects to this such as the generation & supply of electricity, and long-term it would be better for kids in the developing world to have access to the same spec PCs that our children do. And it would help if Computer Aid's website gave some reassurance about what happens to the PCs after they come to the end of their lifespan in Africa.

But don't knock what they are trying to do. If you don't think these old PCs are good enough for Africa then why not donate some you think *are* good enough?