Pencil sharpeners? Check. Rulers? Check. Holdfast sticky tape? Check. Given the vast quantity of stationery in this room, it is hardly surprising that the expression on the face of the man in this photograph is one of bemusement.
This is the storeroom of the Ministry of Education in Dubai in 1974, which kept schools supplied with every conceivable item, from classroom materials to teaching aids and even clothing.
Dubai in the 1970s was expanding tremendously, with the opening of Jebel Ali Port, the dredging of the Creek and the construction of the World Trade Centre, what was to become the tallest building in the Middle East.
These projects brought expatriates in their thousands to the city, and then as now, the pressure was on finding enough school places for the children of the fast-growing workforce.
And thanks to the school stores. at least their pencils would be sharp.
* James Langton
Our family matters legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
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