KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has begun silver volunteer programme to optimally utilize the knowledge, skill and capacity of experienced and matured citizens aged above 45.

KMC has launched the programme to provide citizens with extensive experience in various fields and opportunity to contribute to society and the country’s development even after retirement, informed Bibek Bastola, member of the secretariat of the Urban Planning Commission under KMC.

Regarding the ‘Silver Volunteer Programme’, secretariat member Bastola said, ‘Are you over 45 years old? Have you retired from a job or business? If you wish to contribute to society rather than just rest after retirement, come and join hands in the development of the metropolitan’.

Through the programme, it is indicated that it is possible to work with KMC in areas such as education, health, sanitation, environment, administration, urban development, and heritage conservation.

The metropolis has invited applications according to the ‘KMC Silver Volunteer Procedure’. As stated in the procedure, eligible citizens can apply online through a link.

Nepali citizens/non-resident Nepalis/foreign nationals who are aboive 45 and below 74 can join the programme. Likewise, individuals should have at least 20 years of work experience in any sector in government, private, or non-governmental organisations and acquired relevant expertise to be eligible for the programme.

The applicants should be willing to provide a minimum of five hours of service per week for a period of one year.

Similarly, they should be capable of performing the responsibilities assigned to them honestly and effectively, have no criminal convictions, not be disqualified under prevailing law, and meet other qualifications set by the committee.

According to the metropolitan office, this programme will, on the one hand, help utilize the experience of mature citizens in nation-building, while on the other hand, provide satisfaction and opportunities to experienced citizens through social service.

Interested individuals can contact 9848018215 for more information about the programme.