Compaq Partners with Southern Institute of Tech.

Media Release

23 April 2001

COMPAQ PARTNERS WITH SOUTHERN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Innovative pilot programme shares technology with local schools

AUCKLAND, April 23, 2001 - Compaq Computer has entered into a strategic technology partnership with Invercargill-based Southern Institute of Technology and Computerland New Zealand to assist Bachelor of Information Technology students.

Compaq and Computerland have contributed equipment and services and will offer work experience internships for Bachelor of Information Technology students. Successful graduates will also have preferred status for employment opportunities.

The deal includes the exclusive purchase and lease of Compaq Desktop PCs, Proliant severs and StorageWorks, and SIT staff have also become accredited Compaq warrantee technicians. Compaq has also donated desktop PCs to the Institute's computer suite, which has been named the "Compaq Inspiration Technology Suite."

The consistency of product across the whole system has lead to easier manageability and better reliability - for students and computer support staff - and will reduce the total cost of managing the IT system. Previously a variety of 'clone' PCs and servers were used.

The Institutes' technology suite will also be shared with local schools in a pilot believed to be the first of its kind in New Zealand. Initially the pilot will see two secondary schools and one primary schools use the Institute's facilities for free Internet access via a wireless link up organised by Computerland. The pilot could eventually encompass all education providers in Southland.

The pilot project received the seal of approval from the Minister of Education, Trevor Mallard on his recent visit to the region.

CEO of Southern Institute of Technology Penny Simmonds sees the pilot as a win:win situation with students at both the schools and Institute being able to use a wider range of resources than they currently do.

Blair Valentine, Manager of Computerland Invercargill, agrees. "It's great to be able to train the younger generation in these technologies using leading-edge products and technology here in Invercargill. The students are using the best systems, have comprehensive support and will now also be given the opportunity to put it into practice."

The partnership is a logical one for Compaq according to Ken Erskine, Compaq's Director of Education and Corporate Communications.

"Compaq has been heavily involved in the New Zealand education sector for the last five years. In 1999 for instance we invested $1 million into education and this year we'll be investing a similar amount. This agreement with SIT is a logical extension of Compaq's commitment to education in New Zealand."

EDITORIAL CONTACT Pamela Bonney Public Relations Manager Compaq Computer New Zealand Tel: 09- 918-9278

pamela.bonney@compaq.com

Kirsten Blanchard Manager Client Service Consultus New Zealand Ltd Tel: 09- 913-1824

kblanchard@consultus.co.nz

Issued by Consultus NZ Ltd for Compaq Computer NZ

ABOUT COMPAQ Compaq Computer Corporation, a Fortune Global 100 company, is a leading global provider of technology and solutions. Compaq designs, develops, manufactures, and markets hardware, software, solutions, and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, and communications products, commercial desktop and portable products, and consumer PCs that are sold in more than 200 countries. Information on Compaq and its products and services is available at www.compaq.co.nz

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