The Linux Foundation Partners with Kids on Computers to Support the Next Generation of Open Source Professionals

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At The Linux Foundation we support a variety of community initiatives and organizations that are advancing free and open source software and creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds and ages to contribute. We focus this support through partnerships, donations and activities like the workshop we’re planning with Kids on Computers.

Just last week we announced a comprehensive, new partnership with Kids on Computers in an effort to further our commitment to supporting the future of open source. Our partnership includes a hands-on workshop for children to run their first Linux installation and will likely be hosted at a LinuxCon event this year. It also includes free and discounted passes to Linux Foundation events for members and volunteers of Kids on Computers. We are also making a donation to the organization to help advance their larger education and technology accessibility mission. 

Kids on Computers is a nonprofit organization that establishes computer labs around the world for kids who don’t have access to technology. The organization uses free and open source software (FOSS) to build and supply computers to eighteen computer labs throughout Mexico, India, Morocco, Nepal and Argentina.Their work extends opportunities to the next-generation of FOSS developers and SysAdmins.

“Linux provides a free and open source platform for our kids to learn about technology,” said Avni Khatri, Kids on Computers President. “This partnership with The Linux Foundation aligns with our mission perfectly and will allow us to impact the lives of even more kids. Partnerships like this are what keep the technology field growing and moving in new directions. We thank The Linux Foundation for helping to bring technology to underprivileged kids!”

Through our community giving work we hope to help advance like-minded organizations that protect and advance free and open source software; increase diversity in technology and the open source community; support career development opportunities for the next generation of IT managers and developers, regardless of background or circumstances; and empower open source professionals to take on leadership opportunities and advance open source. The greatest shared technology investments begin with a vision, a passion for innovation, and a talent pool of individuals who understand the power of collaboration. We’re excited about our work with Kids on Computers and for what the future holds.