Free Apple Software for Schools

Press Release:

Free Apple Software for Schools

Free operating system upgrades and additional Apple Macintosh software will be available to all state and state-integrated schools using Macintosh systems in mid- February, the Ministry of Education announced today.

" With more than 20,000 Apple computers currently in use in New Zealand schools these software upgrades will greatly benefit teachers and students throughout the country," said Murray Brown, Manager Information Communications Technology, Curriculum Teaching and Learning, Ministry of Education.

"Besides up-dates for their current operating software schools will also be provided with additional Apple-specific programmes. Schools will have access to free upgrades for their operating systems over the next three years.

"Building the capability of students, educators and institutions is a key education initiative and providing this software to schools should assist with our goal of providing students with skills to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

"Licences have also been extended to all teaching and administrative staff to cover home-use for work purposes.

"While private schools will not automatically receive the free software, they will be eligible to buy the Apple software from the vendor at the same price negotiated by the Ministry of Education.

Murray Brown said the Apple software package includes upgrades of the Mac OSX 10.3 operating system, as well as the Keynote and iLife packages. The in-principle agreement with Renaissance Ltd has been negotiated for 36 months.

ENDS

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