The Group's Foundation builds futures through Aprann project

The Group's Foundation unlocks potential and build futures through the Aprann project

Aprann is an employability programme by the Group's Foundation (previously ENL Foundation), set up to help untrained and unqualified individuals from vulnerable communities to secure jobs or start their own business. Through life skills and vocational training, mentorship, and hands-on experience, Aprann offers a structured path towards autonomy. It is a programme built on belief in people, in potential, and in the power of guidance to ignite impact where it is needed most.

Aprann, a shared commitment to employability and inclusion

Launched in 2020 in collaboration with HSBC Mauritius, Aprann adopts a holistic approach to personal and professional development. The programme is delivered in three key phases, each designed to promote autonomy and employability and support the Inclusive Development pillar of the ER Group’s Sustainability & Inclusive Development (S&ID) Framework:

• Capacity Building Programme: Participants attend coaching and self-discovery sessions, and they learn to identify their strengths, build self-confidence and define a clear path forward.

   

• Skills Development & Vocational Training or Entrepreneurship: Based on their goals, participants either follow vocational training in a chosen field or receive support to start their own business, supported by trusted institutions and facilitators.

   

• Placement & On-the-Job Training: Finally, participants gain hands-on experience through internships or placements. This hands-on exposure allows them to apply what they’ve learned, build confidence in a real work environment, and take their first steps into the professional world.

Strengthened by collaboration

In 2023, the second edition of the programme was launched in collaboration with Oficea, a subsidiary of ER Group. A new evolution to the programme was the introduction of a structured mentorship component, which is particularly impactful during the final phase as participants begin internships or job placements. Mentors from ER Group and Oficea’s network offer consistent guidance throughout this important transition. 

Real progress, real impact

The first two editions of Aprann have made a positive impact on the professional journeys of participants. Individuals from regions where ER group operates, including, Sainte Catherine, Telfair, Moka/St Pierre, Vuillemin, Alma, Pailles/GRNW, L’Escalier and Le Bouchon joined the programme in search of opportunity to learn, grow and become independent.

Aprann has supported hundreds of participants across Mauritius in taking their first steps toward autonomy. The first edition (2020–2023) saw 133 individuals complete the programme, with 47 successfully launching their own businesses under the Group's Foundation guidance. The second edition of Aprann is also showing strong results. The first two cohorts (2023–2025) brought together over 175 participants. Many have moved into employment, including roles at Oficea and its network, while others are now running their own ventures or continuing technical training.

The journey continues

With the third and final batch set to begin soon, the Aprann project continues to drive inclusive, sustainable development. The programme has also been extended to the Bel Ombre region, with over 20 already starting their journey. 

At its heart lies a simple yet powerful belief: when people are given access to tools, trust, and support, they grow. They contribute. They carry momentum forward into their families, their communities, and the future.