Why would he buy hardware at all?

Because he's a computer teacher and obviously enjoys it, and since his identity is known if he cuts and runs he's basically throwing away his livelihood and community good will for a small short term gain. Whereas, if he uses it well and posts images of kids learning, then there's a real chance he could become an ambassador for similar projects elsewhere and lead a fulfilling and respected life of meaning? I dunno, sometimes you can trust and help people instead of being a bitter internet troll and it works out well for everyone. Sometimes not, but I'd prefer to believe in people :)

I'm not trolling at all. I'm not talking about cutting and running.

I'm saying it's arrogant and out of touch to think that if you're teaching Microsoft Word on a chalkboard the best use of $100 is buying a computer. Maybe he'd rather buy some medicine or a water purifier or even a lamp so he could teach at night as well.

Rigorous studies have demonstrated that direct giving is by far the best way to help someone in an impoverished environment.[1] Anything else is a declaration that you know better than they do and it enforces an idea that their situation is entirely their fault.

[1] https://academic.oup.com/qje/article-abstract/131/4/1973/246...

I was with you until the last sentence...

Perhaps a bit too hyperbolic, heh.