GEMS schools extend helping hand to refugees hit by snowstorm

GEMS Education, the world’s leading education provider, has responded to the call by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to support the Tarahamu campaign. Tarahamu, which is Arabic for “Show Compassion,” was launched this week to provide relief for refugees who have been affected by the recent snowstorm in the Levant region.  

As the UAE’s leading provider of K-12 education, GEMS stakeholders felt particularly compelled to take part in the campaign.  In only 48 hours, GEMS families across the UAE responded to the call for donations, collecting thousands of blankets and hundreds of boxes of warm winter clothing, shoes, food items as well as cash.  

“We at GEMS Education believe in being a vital part in our communities,” said Dino Varkey, Group Executive Director and Board Member, GEMS Education, said. “Encouraging students to give back has a significant impact on their overall personal and social development skills. We believe that it is important to venture beyond the classroom to make a positive contribution to society. We are very pleased that we could take part in this important initiative, and provide this much-needed assistance to those who need it most during this difficult season of the year.” 

GEMS Education is also encouraging people across the community to take part in the campaign. Donations can be shared through dedicated Dubai Cares collection points The Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina Mall, and at the Al Boom Tourist Village. 

Dino added, “This is an enormous accomplishment that demonstrates the caring heart of our students, and the concern they have for their peers in other countries who are less fortunate. This is all part of the GEMS ethos of World Citizenship and Universal Values.”