It works to be at job fair, even at 73!

Organised by a City-based NGO, Nightingales Medical Trust (NTM), the fair was surely high on novelty. For this first-of-its-kind initiative, the Trust had roped in 13 employers. Most jobs on offer were in the fields of insurance, accounts and engineering.

“The objective behind the job fair is to see that senior citizens live with dignity. Many senior citizens become depressed because they have no means of living, or they are financially dependent,” S Premkumar Raja, trustee and honorary secretary, NTM, said.

With nearly 700 registered job seekers, the fair was definitely not low on popularity. But the Trust wanted more employers. To boost response from prospective job providers, the Trust signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Sixty-one-year-old Santhosham had read about the job fair and came fully prepared with his resume. He was looking for an opening in technical or teaching field.

“Earlier, the recruitment for senior citizens was easy. But due to recession, it has become very difficult. I want to work as long as my health permits,” said the man who had served the Indian Air Force for 20 years.

For 73-year-old Sumitra, who retired as a nursing superintendent, a job is a must as she has no pension. “I would be interested in doing social work, teaching or any managerial work. Senior citizens are willing to work, but somebody should support and motivate us. Also, if we are active, we will stay healthy,” she said.

H K Shetty (61) agreed with Sumitra when he said he was looking for a bank job or an administrative position. With several years in the banking sector, he wanted to bank on his rich experience in the field. “After retirement in January this year, this is the first time I am venturing out to look for a job. I have my own house and stay with my family. But if I have some work then I can kill time,” he said.

Did anyone say old age was an age-old problem?