Almost a decade ago, Sae-A invested in Haiti's educational landscape by starting S&H School and this year, the South Korean manufacturer is celebrating a cohort of 47 students graduating through its comprehensive educational programme.

The manufacturer, which employs more than 10,000 people in the country, opened second school in 2017.

Sae-A points out these graduates stand as a testament to the remarkable power of free, high-quality education offered over ten years, encompassing their entire scholastic journey from elementary to high school.

It further adds that of these graduates, 11 have successfully secured employment, while 36 are primed to continue their studies at universities. In fact, last year, Global Sae-A says it pioneered internships for aspiring graduates at Sae-A Trading's international branches for a "seamless transition into society."

Attending this ceremony in person were Global Sae-A Chairman and school founder WK Kim, Global Sae-A CEO KM Kim, Haiti government officials, the director of the Regional Ministry of Education, as well as local community leaders, and international stakeholders connected virtually.

Since 2010, Haiti has been at the brunt of crises. It began with the earthquake that saw apparel output slump and things changed for the worse following the assassination of the country's President, Jovenel Moïse.

The Haiti apparel sector continues to struggle as the wider country experiences ongoing lawlessness and political chaos and industry officials have told Just Style international help is the only way to protect its vital manufacturing sector.

Several factories have also since shut operations in the country, laying off over 3,500 workers and moving their production operations to other countries amidst strikes and social unrest leading to delays in shipments, order cancellations and other problems.

However, Sae-A shares that its unwavering commitment has extended beyond education to encompass epidemic prevention initiatives and significant medical volunteering.

The company is of the opinion that education is the catalyst for national development and S&H School emerged as a cornerstone in the reconstruction process in 2013.

S&H schools provide free tuition, books, supplies and lunches, a distinction setting as Sae-A calls it that sets it apart as one of the sole institutions in Haiti offering this provision.

Sae-A's chairman, Kim, states: "I urge our graduates to embrace their potential and embrace 'courageous challenges,' an ethos integral to Global Sae-A's values, thereby becoming agents of transformation in Haiti's history."

In addition to this, Global Sae-A is partnering with the international NGO CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort) and its affiliate Ssangyong Engineering and Construction, earmarking a commitment of $8m for humanitarian aid.

The company explains this comprehensive pledge encompasses diverse initiatives, including the financing of shelters tailored for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), with collaboration between these entities underscoring a resolute drive to effect positive change in communities in need.

In August last year, Sae-A created 400 jobs in Costa Rica as part of its $150m investment plan and expected the completion of its second mill to create 200 more across multiple areas for people with different educational levels, from primary to higher education.