Three universities in England are experiencing the benefits of Vodafone’s everyone.connected campaign, thanks to The Access Foundation’s distribution of 1,450 free SIMs to disadvantaged students.
The first few weeks of university should be a time of connection for students – from making new, potentially lifelong friends to engaging with a course that may set up their career for decades to come.
But, for some, the digital divide is making this a much more difficult experience than it should be. On arrival at their campuses, many disadvantaged students find themselves instantly, or at risk of being, digitally excluded due to a lack of connectivity.
The results of which can be hugely detrimental to young adults during what is a crucial period of development. Which is why, across the 2023-24 academic year, Vodafone donated 3,350 SIMs to The Access Foundation through its everyone.connected campaign.
Digital divide: ‘People shouldn’t have to live without connectivity’
Nicki Lyons, Vodafone’s UK Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, went to Finsbury Park in North London to meet charity partner, The Trussell Trust, as it launched its 'Guarantee our Essentials’ campaign on Tuesday.
By making computing facilities, support and learning more readily available to those that need it, The Access Foundation supports organisations and charities in mitigating the digital divide – a goal they share in common with Vodafone.
For 1,450 students at Aston, De Montfort and Birkbeck universities, these SIMs – which are loaded with 40GB of mobile data, unlimited calls and texts for six months – helped in three key ways.
Educationally
Without consistent connectivity, students are at an educational disadvantage, having to travel into campus, libraries or elsewhere to work online. Vodafone SIMs therefore allow them to access modules, assignments or emails while at home or on the go.
“The free data provided by Vodafone allows me to access my university studies as much as I need to. I can stay in touch with my peers and professors, while accessing learning resources without limitations. This is especially important for online learning, where reliable connectivity is crucial for success.”
Student at Birkbeck University
Financially
For many, working around university commitments is a necessary part of student life. However, without the connectivity provided by these SIMs, finding and applying for jobs can be a tricky task, aggravating financial stress.
“I spend some days every week at a placement and I have to travel a long way to get there. Before this, I was having to choose between data and the train fare. Now, I have both, and I can keep up with the coursework on the journey as well. The cost-of-living crisis is affecting a lot of students, so gestures like these go a long way.”
Student at Aston University
Socially
Whether it’s making friends on campus or staying in touch with loved ones back at home, students rely on their phones to stay connected to both new and old social circles. With unlimited texts and calls, Vodafone SIMs can help students prioritise social connections and, in turn, protect their mental health.
“I recently became a first-time mum and am struggling to find a SIM card at the moment….This SIM will be really useful for keeping connected to people.”
Student at De Montfort University
The Access Foundation applied for these SIMs through Vodafone’s charities.connected programme – find out more, here.
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