Port Louis, Mauritius - August 29, 2025 – HEI Schools Mauritius has officially opened its doors as the first Finnish early education center in the country – HEI Schools Mauritius Forbach. On August 29, the team hosted an opening ceremony to mark the beginning of their journey with 50 children enrolled for the first academic year.
The new preschool represents a groundbreaking partnership between reputable local entrepreneur, –Rebecca Espitalier-Noël, and HEI Schools – a leading Finnish early education provider known for delivering the best of Finnish education through collaborations with local operators worldwide. This marks HEI Schools' first branded preschool in South Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
Photo: Entrance to HEI Schools Mauritius Forbach
Ms. Espitalier-Noël, a social entrepreneur recognized by Forbes for impact, has successfully led multiple innovative projects in Mauritius through her company FoodWise, started on this educational journey three years ago with a vision to change early childhood education in her community. Her dream became reality when she discovered HEI Schools' innovative approach to bringing Finnish pedagogical methods to diverse cultural contexts.
Photo: Rebecca Espitalier-Noël delivered a speech at the opening ceremony on August 29, 2025
"Three years ago, I had a dream to transform education in our community," said Rebecca Espitalier-Noël. "I spoke with inspiring leaders around the world who were reimagining education, searching for the system that truly meets the needs of today’s children. Again and again, Finnish pedagogy emerged — innovative, research-based, and consistently ranked among the best in the world. When I discovered HEI Schools and their commitment to partnering with local leaders to bring Finnish education to new regions, adapting it to each culture and natural environment, I knew this was the right path forward for Mauritian families."
The project began in the winter of 2023 and opened its doors September 2025 to the first cohort of families who believe in the quality of HEI Schools’ early education, rooted in Finnish educational philosophy. HEI Schools Mauritius at Forbach will serve as a pioneer center for bringing quality Finnish early education to local children.
Photo collage: HEI Schools Mauritius Forbach, showing the heritage site and HEI-branded interior
The newly renovated HEI Schools Mauritius campus in Forbach is nestled within a stunning historical site, surrounded by lush natural beauty. The building has been renovated to incorporate the existing heritage with the lush green landscape, creating a unique, nurturing environment where children can flourish.
The opening ceremony was a great success, with more than 50 families enrolled their children at HEI Schools Mauritius in Forbach. This strong enrollment shows the community's commitment to improving early education and marks an important moment for the area. The strong interest from local communities highlight a desire for world’s best education, such as that offered by Finnish education model.
Photo collage: Moments from the HEI Schools Mauritius grand opening on August 29, 2025
For enrollment details, please visit https://heischools.mu/
More information
About HEI Schools
Founded in Helsinki, Finland in 2015, HEI Schools (Helsinki International Schools Group) is an award-winning early education company that provides globally scalable education solutions inspired by Finland’s renowned school system. With its child-focused approach and scientifically-backed curriculum, HEI Schools equips educators and parents with the tools they need to foster inspiring learning environments. Today, HEI Schools operates in over 15 countries and continues to expand its mission of bringing joyful learning to children around the world. For more information, visit www.heischools.com
About Rebecca Espitalier-Noël
Rebecca Espitalier-Noël is a Mauritian social entrepreneur and co-founder of FoodWise and LearnWise, the organization behind HEI Schools Mauritius. With academic roots in Management and Sustainability from the University of St Andrews and Sciences Po Paris, she has built ventures that merge innovation with social and environmental impact. As Managing Director of FoodWise, she has led efforts to rescue millions of meals, cut food waste, and influence national food donation policie. Recognized by Forbes Afrique’s “30 under 30”, she is widely regarded as a change-maker in the region. Through HEI Schools Mauritius, Rebecca brings her vision of combining Finnish pedagogy with Mauritian heritage and nature to create meaningful, sustainable education.
About Foodwise
FoodWise is a Mauritius-based social enterprise dedicated to reducing food waste while empowering communities and protecting the environment. foodwise.io Through food rescue, education, and innovative solutions, the organization transforms surplus food into value—redistributing to NGOs, educating the public, and fostering systemic change around consumption and waste. foodwise.io FoodWise offers turnkey support to businesses wishing to donate food safely and effectively, covering the donation process, staff training, impact reporting, and delivering real social and environmental returns. foodwise.io
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