A Dubai school has paid an emotional tribute to a student who lost their life in a fire at a Swiss ski resort, remembering the pupil as deeply loved and cherished.
‘Deeply loved’: Dubai school honours pupil who died in blaze at Swiss ski resort
A Dubai-based school has shared an emotional message in memory of one of its students, Emanuele Galeppini, who lost his life in a devastating fire at a Swiss ski resort during New Year celebrations. The Swiss International Scientific School Dubai posted a tribute on Instagram, remembering the teenager as a cherished and much-loved member of its community.
In its message, the school described Emanuele as a kind-hearted, optimistic, and highly respected student. He was remembered as a loyal friend, a gifted learner, and a talented sportsman whose warmth, generosity, and enthusiasm for life left a lasting impression. The school concluded its tribute by extending heartfelt condolences to Emanuele’s family and loved ones.
Emanuele, an Italian national and a rising golf talent, was later identified as one of the victims of the tragic blaze at a ski resort in Crans-Montana, Switzerland. The incident claimed 40 lives and left more than 115 people seriously injured. Due to the severity of the burns suffered by many victims, the identification process took several weeks and was only finalised last week. Reports indicated that 26 of those who died were teenagers, with some as young as 14.
According to Reuters, Emanuele’s body was repatriated to Milan last week along with those of other Italian victims. The fire has been described as one of the deadliest disasters in Switzerland in recent years. Messages of sympathy and remembrance poured in from around the world, including tributes from the UAE’s golfing community, where Emanuele was widely admired.
Gone too soon
Parents and members of the school community shared deeply personal tributes, reflecting on Emanuele’s achievements and character. One parent recalled applauding him during school ceremonies and golf events, describing the loss as heartbreaking and expressing deep sympathy for his mother. The message spoke of a promising young champion whose life was cut tragically short.
Another parent shared memories of seeing Emanuele during school pick-up times, noting how his face would light up when he spotted his mother and younger brother. The tribute recalled concerts, school showcases, and golf victories, tracing his journey from a small child to a young man. The writer said Emanuele’s kindness, joy, innocence, and love for his family left a lasting mark that far exceeded the years he was given.
Several mothers of his classmates also expressed how deeply their children would miss him, both as a friend and as someone whose successes they celebrated together. Many described Emanuele as humble, exceptionally talented, and genuinely kind, qualities that made him stand out among his peers.
Emanuele had been staying at the ski resort with his family when the fire broke out in the early hours of January 1. International media reports said his family last spoke to him around midnight and were unable to reach him afterward. His father later appealed publicly for information when he could not locate his son, before the tragic news was confirmed.
The tragedy has prompted renewed conversations within school communities about the emotional impact of losing a young life so suddenly. Teachers and counsellors at the Dubai school have reportedly been supporting students as they process their grief, offering spaces for reflection and discussion. School officials emphasised the importance of community during moments of loss, encouraging students to lean on one another and seek help when needed. Memorial activities are also being considered as a way to honour Emanuele’s memory and celebrate the positive influence he had on those around him.
Emanuele’s passion for golf was widely recognised, with coaches and peers often praising his discipline and sportsmanship. Those who trained with him recalled a young athlete who balanced competitive drive with humility, always willing to encourage others. His dedication to the sport was matched by his commitment to his studies, making him a role model for younger students. Members of the golfing community described him as someone who represented the values of respect and perseverance, both on and off the course.
The incident in Switzerland has drawn attention to safety measures at large holiday destinations, particularly during peak celebration periods. Authorities there have continued investigations into the cause of the fire, while families of victims await further answers. The scale of the tragedy, involving many young people, has deeply affected communities across multiple countries. Officials have pledged to review safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future, as the focus remains on accountability and improved emergency preparedness.
Across Dubai, families and parents have expressed solidarity with Emanuele’s loved ones, many sharing messages of support through social media and community groups. Parents said the loss resonated deeply, as many could relate to the joy of watching their children grow, achieve milestones, and pursue their passions. These shared expressions of grief have highlighted the close-knit nature of international school communities, where students from diverse backgrounds form bonds that extend beyond classrooms and campuses.
As tributes continue to be shared, many have focused on preserving Emanuele’s legacy by remembering his kindness, enthusiasm, and generosity of spirit. Friends and teachers said he will be remembered not only for his achievements, but for the way he made others feel valued and included. For those who knew him, his memory serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, connection, and cherishing time with loved ones. His impact, they say, will endure far beyond his years.
