The Bank of Bermuda has donated more than 400 computers to the Ministry of Education and Development and to the Ministry of Telecommunications and E-Commerce.

The computers have been outfitted for students to use in their homes, in primary and middle schools and by the public in community centres.

The bank has paid for upgrades to these computers to ensure optimal use by their new owners while a number of bank staff volunteered their time in refurbishing the PCs.

Approximately 220 computers have been allocated to students currently attending Government schools.

This donation targets young people who may not currently have access to a computer in their home.

An additional 80 computers will go to schools and education projects around the Island, while a further 100 computers have been assigned to community centres, charities and individuals deemed in urgent need of access to technology.

Bank of Bermuda said in a statement that it firmly believes that businesses have a responsibility to the community in which they operate and so the bank makes substantial contributions each year to community projects with the majority of donations going towards educational and environmental initiatives.

Bank of Bermuda spokeswoman, Judy Doidge said: ?We are committed to supporting the educational development of young people in Bermuda and will continue to support initiatives that prepare the Island?s students for professional success.

?We are delighted that we could recycle these computers in a meaningful way, not only extending their working life, but also helping students achieve their goals.?

Education Minister Terry Lister expressed his gratitude to Bank of Bermuda.

He said: ?This is yet another great example of the kind of community partnerships that help to make Bermuda a better place.?