Ncell has implemented multiple Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in seven provinces. In 2080 (January 2024) marking its 18th anniversary, the company announced that it would implement 18 social initiatives under the ‘18 for 18’ project which is now underway across the country.
For the initiative, the private telco received over 165 proposals from seven provinces for community-level projects. The willing non-profit organizations submitted their proposal by January 31, 2024. After assessing each project, Ncell selected 18 initiatives. Now, the company is implementing those projects across Nepal.
Ncell “18 for 18” community projects underway
Under this project, Ncell has undertaken various initiatives in Bagmati Province. This includes Plastics Waste Management, Digital Literacy, Promotion of Nepali Art and Culture through museums, and educational projects.
Likewise, in Gandaki, these CSR projects include School for Out of School Children, which focuses on reintegrating school dropout children, a health-related nutrition and WASH program in Hupsekot, and the Green Box project for environmental protection.
In Koshi Province, Ncell has implemented a project that seeks to conduct cervical cancer screenings for 6,000 women and raise awareness among tourists visiting the country for expeditions.
Similarly, in Lumbini Province, a project is underway to cultivate the concept of Green Schools in various community schools, alongside health camps.
In Madhesh Province, Ncell has started skill development programs aimed at youth capacity development and livelihood support, as well as educational materials and development programs in schools.
Also, in Karnali Province, extensive programs on WASH, waste segregation, and the production of compost fertilizer from waste are underway.
In the Far West Sudurpashchim (Province), five schools are implementing STEAM education, and teachers from 56 schools in the Baitadi District will benefit from training and development programs. In addition, Ncell is also carrying out a renewable energy promotion program in the remote district.
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Criteria for the selection of projects
Ncell selected these community projects on the basis of the concept of the project, its impact on the community, sustainability, potential for further expansion, project implementation area, and the experience of the organization submitting the proposal.
For the ‘18 for 18’ implementation, Ncell gave priority to project areas such as education, health, environment, livelihood support, renewable energy, and art and culture were prioritized.
“Under this project, we are implementing a health-related initiative in Chandannath Municipality of Karnali Province, benefiting 22,000 people. In the Far West, Ncell is implementing the promotion of STEAM education as a joint initiative of Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City and Karkhana Samuha. Likewise, in Madhesh Province, we are organizing a skill camp targeting young people from age 18 to 25 years, while in Koshi, we are conducting a project to spread public awareness about cervical cancer. These are just some examples,” said Bishakha Lakshmi Khadka, Corporate Communication and CSR Head, Ncell. “We are confident that our projects being implemented in all seven provinces will contribute to the development of the communities.”
Ncell’s commitments
In line with the priority of assisting the government in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Ncell has always committed itself to its CSR projects. Under the ‘18 for 18’ project, each initiative is provided with financial support of Rs. 10 lakh (Rs 1 million) for its implementation.
Based on the importance and impact of the approved projects, more than two projects have been selected in some provinces.
Since its advent, Ncell, as a digital citizen, has contributed more than Rs. 2 billion to various social projects relating to education, environment, and health. Besides, Ncell is also one of the largest taxpayers in the country and continues to make a significant contribution to the economy. The telecom giant has paid over Rs 320 billion in taxes and non-tax revenues to the government as of the fiscal year 2023/24.
With these particular 18 projects in 7 provinces, Ncell aspires to “touch the lives of people” by bringing positive change and strengthening its bond with every Nepali. The project aligns with Ncell’s vision of ‘Leave No One Behind.’