Kathmandu Conference Highlights Senior Citizen Challenges

A two-day international conference focused on the condition of senior citizens, the challenges facing ageing populations, and intergenerational knowledge sharing has begun in the capital, bringing together political leaders, social organisations, and participants concerned with elderly welfare and social inclusion.

The event, organised by the Manmohan Memorial Foundation, was inaugurated by President Ramchandra Paudel. Speakers at the conference stressed the importance of recognising older citizens not only as recipients of social protection but also as valuable contributors whose experience and knowledge can support national development and social transformation.

The conference has placed special attention on preserving the role of older generations in society at a time when demographic and social changes are affecting family structures, community life, and public policy priorities in Nepal.

Conference focuses on ageing and knowledge transfer

The international gathering in Kathmandu is centred on issues affecting senior citizens, including their social condition, existing challenges, and the transfer of knowledge and experience between generations.

Organisers said the programme aims to create discussions around how societies can better integrate elderly citizens into public life while also improving support systems for their wellbeing and dignity.

The event has brought attention to the need for long-term planning related to ageing populations and the role senior citizens can continue to play in family, community, and state affairs.

President inaugurates the event in Kathmandu

President Ramchandra Paudel formally inaugurated the conference at the opening session attended by political figures and representatives associated with social and community initiatives.

The gathering is being hosted by the Manmohan Memorial Foundation, an organisation established in 1999 that has long been involved in activities related to senior citizens and social welfare programmes.

The conference is expected to continue for two days, during which participants will discuss policy concerns, social challenges, and the preservation of knowledge and experience held by older generations.

Senior citizens described as a source of knowledge and experience

Addressing the conference, CPN-UML leader Ishwor Pokharel said senior citizens should not be viewed only within the framework of social security and respect.

He said elderly people represent an important source of knowledge, experience, and social understanding that can contribute to governance, social reform, and family prosperity.

According to Pokharel, the experience of older generations should be utilised more effectively in national development efforts and public life. He said society and government institutions should work to strengthen the participation and recognition of senior citizens beyond welfare-focused discussions.

Pokharel also highlighted the contribution of former Prime Minister Manmohan Adhikari, describing him as the first democratically elected communist prime minister to introduce social security programmes in Nepal.

Foundation highlights long-running social programmes

During his remarks, Pokharel said the foundation has continued various social and community activities aimed at supporting senior citizens since its establishment.

These activities include educational tours for elderly citizens, honour and recognition programmes, health camps, and literary events.

He also noted that the organisation has expanded its work into the education and employment sectors through the establishment of the Manmohan Technical University in Morang.

According to Pokharel, the institution has been working to provide technical education opportunities for young people while also supporting self-employment initiatives.

• Educational visits for senior citizens
• Health and community support programmes
• Recognition and honour events
• Literary and cultural activities
• Technical education and self-employment efforts

Calls to strengthen respect for older generations

Pokharel said the foundation created by the late Manmohan Adhikari to honour senior citizens has gradually been embraced by governments at different levels and by society more broadly.

He described this development as a positive sign and said future efforts should focus on refining those initiatives and linking the experience of elderly citizens with development campaigns and public service.

The comments reflected broader concerns about ensuring that senior citizens remain actively connected to social and national life rather than becoming isolated from decision-making and community engagement.

Speakers at the conference also emphasised the importance of preserving institutional memory and encouraging younger generations to learn from the experiences of older citizens.

Conference conclusions to support future policymaking

Organisers said the findings and discussions emerging from the conference will be systematically documented and published after the event concludes.

The compiled conclusions will then be made available to relevant state bodies to support future policymaking related to senior citizens and social welfare issues.

The foundation said the conference is expected to help create stronger dialogue between policymakers, social organisations, and communities on issues connected to ageing, dignity, and intergenerational cooperation.

With discussions continuing over the coming days, organisers hope the conference will contribute to more structured policies and broader public understanding of the role senior citizens can play in Nepal’s social and developmental future.