Emirates’ Initiative Brings ‘Piece of History’ to African Students with Unique School Bags

Talal Al Gergawi, Emirates' country manager for Zimbabwe, shared that the airline managed to gather a significant amount of the material for the project, ensuring the bags are both functional and sustainable

In a heartfelt gesture aimed at supporting education in Africa, Emirates Airlines has launched a special initiative to provide students with limited-edition school bags made from material salvaged from retired aircraft.

This initiative, which sees 50,000 kilograms of materials repurposed from 191 aircraft, has been hailed as a unique way to support the educational needs of children in several African countries.

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The backpacks, which are being distributed to students in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and beyond, are a symbol of the airline’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

The material for these one-of-a-kind bags was carefully sourced from Emirates’ fleet, which has seen a large number of aircraft retired.

Talal Al Gergawi, Emirates’ country manager for Zimbabwe, shared that the airline managed to gather a significant amount of the material for the project, ensuring the bags are both functional and sustainable.

“These bags are more than just a way to carry books; they carry a piece of history with them. We’re proud that these children are receiving something that not only helps with their education but also connects them to something special,” Al Gergawi said.

The initiative has already seen positive feedback from students, teachers, and local communities. In a video shared by the airline, students proudly show off their new backpacks, which, while made from aircraft materials, were carefully reworked to ensure they look and feel brand new.

According to Omar Bushlaibi, Emirates’ country manager for Zambia, great care was taken to ensure the bags met the highest standards of quality. “It was important to us that these bags are not only sustainable but also durable and comfortable for the students,” he said.

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Dubai’s Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, praised the initiative, describing it as a “beautiful initiative” that blends history with a commitment to social responsibility. He shared the video on social media, extending his approval and admiration for the project.

The response from the recipients has been overwhelmingly positive. Elarm Chalusa, headteacher of Jana Secondary School under the ACE (African Community Education) program, expressed his gratitude: “We are so touched that Emirates would think about us in this part of the world. The students are thrilled to have these bags, and it’s a moment they will remember.”

Dr. Fatima Maruta, founder of Rose of Sharon School, highlighted the deeper significance of the gesture, emphasizing that it was not just about the bags themselves, but what they represent.

“This is about comfort, dignity, and practical support to those in need,” she explained. “These simple items can make a world of difference in their everyday life.”

Beyond their educational use, the bags have sparked a sense of pride in the students. With each backpack carrying a piece of Emirates’ legacy, the children are not only receiving a useful tool for their studies but also a tangible connection to a larger global community.

Emirates’ innovative initiative has drawn attention to the airline’s ongoing commitment to supporting education, particularly in regions where resources are limited.

By repurposing materials from its aircraft, Emirates has managed to turn what might have been waste into a source of hope and inspiration for thousands of students across Africa.

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