Nepal’s leading telecom operator Ncell has launched “Ncell Foundation”, the telco’s latest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project on the occasion of its 19th anniversary. The telco says that it will govern all of the company’s social causes and also pledged Rs 200 million to new programs.
The company’s chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD) of Ncell; Mr. Jabbor Kayumov reflected upon the company’s contribution to Nepal and its new CSR programs.
“Over the past 19 years, Ncell has contributed over Rs 2 billion (USD 15 million) on CSR activities in various areas—health, education, environment, and more, impacting over 13 million lives both directly and indirectly. We now believe it is important to bring all of our good work under one umbrella, one purpose, and that is the Ncell Foundation,” said Kayumov, at a special event that marked Ncell’s 19th anniversary.
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Ncell Foundation has three clear objectives
At the event, Ncell shared that the Foundation’s vision is to cultivate an inclusive, connected, and sustainable Nepal and contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with 3 objectives:
- Supporting those who need it the most
- Bridging the digital divide and
- Fostering a more healthy, sustainable, and enriching Nepal.
Ncell’s goal of the foundation lies in its drive to help communities and the country and it has maintained a strong track record of extending support for high-impact causes. For e.g., the company contributed Rs 100 million to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund during the 2015 earthquake to help families affected by it. Also, the company has made a contribution of Rs 1.6 worth of communication support to keep families connected.
The company’s generous and responsible aptitude was visible during the Covid-19 pandemic as it contributed Rs 100 million to assist the government’s procurements of protective gear, and PCR testing kits.
After the Jajarkot earthquake in 2080, Ncell provided the Karnali Province Government with immediate support of Rs 5 million in total for rescue, treatment, and relief of earthquake victims. The help was also extended to build classrooms in 10 government schools so that the children could start to resume their studies.
Similarly, in 2014, Ncell supported the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund with Rs 200 million to help the flood and landslide victims from different parts of the country.
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Ncell Foundation promises Rs 200 million to social causes in next 5 years
Ncell says that it will provide at least Rs 200 million in support for various projects over the next five years. This is a continuation of Ncell’s CSR efforts but will also govern the company’s CSR projects.
“Ncell is not just putting up towers and connecting people or providing jobs, we are also stewards of society with a goal to be a trailblazer in CSR in Nepal, making a lasting impact and delivering on our motto—“Here for You,” said Kayumov.
During the same event, Ncell honored Para-athlete Palesh Goverdhan, who brought home Nepal’s first-ever medal in the competition. On the occasion, CEO Kayumov reflected on the story of how Ncell decided to support Palesha last year.
“I remember very well that moment about a year ago when we called up the Paralympic Committee saying we wanted to support them, they couldn’t believe it. It didn’t make PR or business sense but we wanted to support those who need it the most—the unseen or unsung heroes,” he said.
Ncell Foundation, launched with its brand promise, ‘Today. Tomorrow. Together,’ aims to strengthen and expand its social efforts through meaningful initiatives, connecting with local communities and addressing grassroots-level issues.
19 for 19 was also announced
At the same event, Ncell launched its new initiative ‘19 for 19,’ under the Ncell Foundation. This project will extend financial support of Rs 1 million each to 19 social projects across the country’s seven provinces. At the same time, Ncell’s ‘18 for 18’ initiative, is in the implementation phase.
Ncell started its journey on September 17, 2005, initially under Mero Mobile branding, and spearheaded to connect Nepal and Nepali people. As the company enters its 20th year, Ncell has realized its vision and continues to make more milestones. The company has extended its services across the country and provided more accessible and affordable voice, data, and other digital services.
“Our journey so far would not have been possible without the trust and support of our valued customers, partners, and key stakeholders like government authorities, regulators, and the communities we serve. We are even more committed to many more years of togetherness as we support Nepal’s journey towards a digital future,” said Kayumov.
Going ahead, Ncell says it will continue to bring advanced and innovative services to the people. The company has transformed the lives of Nepalese from 2G to 4G and is ready for 5G in Nepal.
Being the first private and leading telecommunication provider, Ncell’s role can’t be overstated. But the telco is also active in social empowerment efforts instead of operating its businesses.
With the Ncell Foundation, Sadhain ON campaign, and upcoming community projects, Ncell will continue to play a proactive effort for various social causes.