#National News

Brussels Airlines extend largesse to Fajara Skills Development Centre

May 9, 2025, 12:10 PM | Article By: Makutu Manneh

In a significant show of support, Brussels Airlines through its philanthropic arm, b. foundation for Africa, has recently donated over 3,000 boxes of clothing including T-shirts, socks, jackets, and trousers to the Fajara Skills Development Centre (FSDC).

This initiative underscores the airline's commitment to empowering communities across Africa. The gesture seeks to assist students at FSDC, by providing them with essential clothing items

The b. foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering communities through education, skills development, and sustainable initiatives. Since its inception, the foundation has worked tirelessly to bridge gaps in access to resources, enabling individuals to achieve their potential and contribute meaningfully to society, with a core focus on fostering self-reliance,

The foundation has also collaborated with like-minded organizations to ensure that opportunities for growth and learning are accessible to all, especially marginalized and underprivileged communities.

Jean Able-Thomas, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FSDC, while expressing gratitude for the donation, noted that the support would significantly help students in their educational journey. "The support will impact on our students' lives, while providing them with the necessary resources to pursue their training with dignity and confidence."

Emily Hughes, team leader Brussels Airlines Banjul, revealed that Brussels Airlines' b. foundation for Africa has a history of supporting educational and health initiatives across the continent.  "Their programmes, such as "Bike for Africa," have raised substantial funds for various projects, including those in The Gambia. This recent donation aligns with their ongoing efforts to foster sustainable development and community empowerment in Africa."

Kujai Jah, a student of Fajara Skill Development Center expressed gratitude to Brussels Airlines for the gesture.

Established in 1999, the Fajara Skills Development Centre has been instrumental in providing vocational training to a number of Gambians, equipping them with the necessary skills to gain employment and entrepreneurship.