HONOLULU (KHON2) — Oceanit, a local company that works on making scientific advancements, donated thousands of their FDA-authorized ASSURE-100 COVID-19 rapid test kits to schools across Oʻahu.
The rapid test was developed by Oceanit’s engineers, with the work to create the tests being done in Hawaiʻi.
Oceanit partnered with the state Department of Education so that countless keiki across the islands could have access to the important health tool as COVID and flu cases are on the rise.
For Assistant Superintendent Sean Tajima, who is part of the newly established Office of Campus Operations and Support, the donation signifies the importance of community ties and collaboration.
“This is the kind of coordination and partnership our office was created for, making sure schools have the resources and systems in place to respond to real-world challenges,” Tajima said. “Efforts like this help us strengthen school operations while keeping our focus on supporting students.”
The philanthropic effort is part of the company’s “Mind to Market” roots and their goal to inspire local youth by displaying homegrown scientific developments and advancements.
“We want our students in school, learning safely, every day,” DOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “These test kits will help schools respond quickly during flu season and give families added peace of mind. And it’s inspiring for our students to know this kind of innovation is happening right here in Hawaiʻi, it shows them what’s possible in their own future.”
By providing keiki with their products Oceanit hopes to curiosity in the next generation of scientists and engineers, the company said.
For more information, visit Oceanit’s website.