The Polish government has modified its student laptop distribution policy, moving away from the previous approach of providing laptops as personal property. Under the new plan, schools will receive the equipment and decide on its allocation based on educational needs. The distribution will prioritize less affluent regions, ensuring that students in underprivileged areas have better access to digital resources.
Prioritizing Schools Over Individuals
Unlike the previous government’s initiative, which granted laptops directly to students, the new “Digital Student” program focuses on equipping public schools, including primary, secondary, and artistic institutions. The Ministry of Digital Affairs aims to distribute 735,000 laptops and tablets, with allocation based on regional economic factors such as unemployment rates and average wages. Schools in areas affected by natural disasters in 2024 will also receive priority.
The government plans to launch a procurement process for the laptops and tablets in early 2025. The devices will remain the property of the school’s managing authority, rather than being assigned to specific students. This approach ensures flexible use of the technology, adapting to the evolving needs of different classes and educational programs.