School supplies are being delivered to students’ doorsteps ahead of the Academic Year 2026–27, which begins on April 6.
Dubai/Sharjah: Indian Schools Deliver Supplies Ahead of Online Reopening
As Dubai’s Indian schools prepare to start Academic Year 2026–27 online, several institutions are going the extra mile by delivering textbooks and other school supplies directly to students’ homes.
Schools across Dubai are set to reopen online on April 6, with distance learning in the UAE extended through April 17. The initiative ensures that students are ready to begin lessons from day one without requiring parents to leave home.
The program, which also reaches families in neighbouring Sharjah, has received positive feedback from parents navigating another disrupted school start, reminiscent of experiences during the COVID‑19 pandemic.
‘A Win-Win for Everyone’
At Delhi Private School (DPS) Dubai, the home delivery system has been operating for nearly two weeks, with hundreds of parents placing orders. Rashmi Nandkeolyar, Principal and Director, described it as a practical solution with appeal that could extend beyond the current circumstances.
“Parents find it extremely convenient, as they don’t need to come to school—they can simply order a book set and have it delivered to their homes. It’s a win-win. We are even considering offering this option to parents in future years. In today’s age, when so much is available online—like on Amazon—this is a highly efficient way to distribute books,” said Rashmi Nandkeolyar.
She added that home delivery also helps avoid the long queues that usually form during traditional book collection drives.
Structured and Phased Delivery
The The Indian Academy, Dubai, part of the LEAMS Education Group, has adopted a phased delivery model in line with directives from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority.
“To prioritise student safety and ensure operational efficiency, the school introduced a centralised online ordering and home delivery system for textbooks and stationery,” the institution stated.
Hajera Lahir, Director of LEAMS Education, added: “Ensuring that every student is fully prepared from the first day of the academic year is a key priority for us. Through structured planning and coordinated execution, we have ensured that learning resources are delivered in advance, supporting continuity, confidence, and consistent academic progress for all students.”
The school highlighted that selected textbooks have been updated to align with the latest curriculum requirements ahead of the new academic session.
Reaching as Far as Sharjah
Meanwhile, Global Indian International School (GIIS) Dubai, part of the Global Schools Group, has extended its delivery service beyond Dubai, reaching families in Sharjah.
Anita Singh, Principal, said the initiative goes beyond logistics: “We knew that learning must continue with a sense of normalcy and care. Delivering books directly to our students, no matter where they live, allows us to support them without placing any extra burden on parents. As soon as a purchase is made, we ensure the books reach their homes promptly, and we plan to deliver as many consignments as possible this week.”
She emphasized that the initiative goes beyond delivering books: “It is about connection, reassurance, and standing beside our community during uncertain times. The heartfelt response from our parents has been deeply moving.”
Sharjah Schools
Indian schools in Sharjah, where the academic year began online on March 30, are also implementing their own book distribution plans.
Dr Pramod Mahajan, Principal and Director of Sharjah Indian School, said the school is finalizing arrangements in coordination with relevant authorities.
“We plan to use school buses and drivers, who are familiar with local areas and households, to deliver books directly to families. We may also set up nearby collection points for parents who prefer to pick up books themselves. For those who wish to come to school, we can accommodate a small number at a time within permitted limits.”
Some Books from India Delayed
Although the arrival of certain physical textbooks from India has been delayed, Dr Pramod Mahajan assured that Sharjah Indian School is well-prepared to manage in the meantime. “We have downloaded materials from the NCERT website and have our own Learning Management System where all resources are available chapter-wise, including presentations and assessments. Books aren’t a major constraint; the online resources are robust. But of course, the physical books do need to reach students, and we are working on that.”
At Delhi Private School (DPS) Dubai, a clear plan is also in place for delayed books. Rashmi Nandkeolyar explained: “If something hasn’t arrived in time, we will provide soft copies to students for the first two weeks. Once the physical books are available, class teachers will distribute them on campus, or we will courier them to students still at home. We have it all mapped out—Covid taught us a great deal about adapting.”
