Emirates donated 100 school backpacks from its ‘Aircrafted by Emirates’ collection to students supported by the Association des Parents d’Enfants Inadaptés de l’Île Maurice (APEIM), according to an April 3 announcement. The donation event took place during Mauritius’ Independence Day celebrations and was attended by H.E. Mr. Dharambeer Gokhool, President of the Republic of Mauritius.
The initiative aims to support education and community development in Mauritius, particularly for children and young people with intellectual disabilities. APEIM provides specialised education, therapy, and vocational programmes designed to foster life skills and confidence among its beneficiaries.
The donated backpacks were made from repurposed materials taken from Emirates aircraft interiors, including fabric from A380 and Boeing 777 planes. The bags were handcrafted in Dubai by Emirates Engineering and filled with stationery supplies such as pencils, notebooks, story books, and drawing books. Oomar Ramtoola, Emirates’ Manager for the Indian Ocean Islands, led the presentation alongside local team members who distributed the bags directly to students at APEIM.
H.E. Mr Dharambeer Gokhool said: “I express my profound gratitude to Emirates for its sincere commitment to Mauritius, a commitment that goes far beyond economic development to also support human and social well-being.
These gestures of solidarity and generosity take on an even deeper meaning and remind us how essential mutual support and humanity remain.
I hope that this donation from Emirates will contribute significantly to the well-being of our children and young people and encourage them to progress in their learning and development.”
Oomar Ramtoola said: “Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape society and inspire the next generation. Through Emirates’ Aircrafted initiative, we wanted to support students with something practical that helps them in their daily learning journey while also sharing a small piece of our history as an airline serving Mauritius.
Mauritius has been an important part of the Emirates network for more than two decades, and we remain committed not only to connecting the island to the world but also to supporting the communities we serve. It was truly inspiring to meet the students and educators at APEIM… It has been exceptionally rewarding…to make a small difference in a community we have been a part of for over 23 years.”
Jocelyne Beesoon, Director of APEIM said: “At APEIM, our mission is to empower children…by guiding them on their journey toward autonomy…We deeply value partnerships that embrace…these advocacy commitments…. We are grateful…for this meaningful gesture…. The backpacks are more than practical school items; they are a symbol of encouragement…”
Globally, Emirates reports having donated more than 3,700 Aircrafted backpacks across ten countries through partnerships with eighteen non-governmental organisations.
