Corporate Social Responsibility
Empowering Futures: The Story of Escola Estrela do Mar, Inhassoro
In the quiet coastal town of Inhassoro, Mozambique, a powerful story of transformation is unfolding—one classroom at a time. Escola Estrela do Mar, founded in 2004, has become a cornerstone of opportunity and growth for hundreds of young Mozambicans.
The school was born from a visionary partnership led by Don Pio Bono and Caterina Fassio, who were deeply committed to social development through education. Their mission was supported by the Parish of Santo Eusebio, the Diocese of Inhambane, and Italian civil society, with a pivotal role played by Luigi Bobba, former President of ACLI and later Undersecretary of State for Labour in Italy. Thanks to his leadership and advocacy, this international collaboration became a concrete reality—turning a bold idea into a thriving institution.
What began as a small vocational centre focused on dignity, inclusion, and practical skills has grown into one of Mozambique’s most respected educational institutions. Officially recognised by the Ministry of Education in 2011, Estrela do Mar evolved into a full-fledged Instituto Técnico e Comercial by 2016, offering both academic and professional training.
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Today, the school community includes around 900 students and teachers, with programs in carpentry, mechanics, electricity, tailoring, accounting, and hospitality. Boarding houses accommodate students from remote communities, and facilities include computer labs, sports fields, and modern workshops—ensuring a holistic and accessible education.
International support has helped drive this transformation. Japanese cooperation funded dedicated hospitality training facilities in 2012, while Italian NGOs such as CELIM and Enaip contributed expertise in tourism and vocational training aligned to the local economy.
A defining chapter in the school’s growth came through its partnership with Sasol, a global energy company. In 2015, Sasol joined forces with the school to establish the Inhassoro Vocational Training Centre (CFPI). With an investment of over £1.3 million, Sasol constructed container classrooms, industrial workshops, dormitories, and sports areas. In 2022, President Filipe Nyusi inaugurated these new facilities—signaling a new era for vocational education in the region.
To date, more than 480 young people have completed vocational training through CFPI, many securing employment in skilled roles, including within Sasol operations.
But beyond numbers and infrastructure, Escola Estrela do Mar is a symbol of what happens when community values, faith, and global solidarity meet purpose and action. Rooted in dignity, driven by partnerships, and fuelled by local leadership, the school continues to shape a generation of confident, skilled, and empowered youth.
At Airlandlords and Auris Property Academy we are honoured to stand beside this extraordinary institution—investing in education not as charity, but as shared responsibility for a more equitable and sustainable future.