Jordan Times
Tuesday, May 4, 2004
Queen Rania underlines
need to utilise expertise of elderly
Sitt-el-Kul Club for the Elderly was established in 1999 to encourage
retired members of society to continue as active members of the society
AMMAN (JT) — Her Majesty Queen Rania on Monday stressed the need to utilise the
expertise of the elderly and put their knowledge into good use, especially in
voluntary work in all sectors.
The Queen's remarks came during a visit to the “Sitt-el-Kul” Club for the
Elderly, which was established in 1999 to encourage retired members of society
to continue as active members and integrate them in all aspects of community
life.
Stressing the importance of providing the elderly with the means to initiate
useful ventures that could be helpful to projects in villages and the badia,
Queen Rania said voluntary and development activities could put the elderly's
know-how to good use.
“Volunteer work should be further emphasised and ingrained in society. Such work
provides fulfilment. We need the experience and knowledge of the elderly,” the
Queen added.
Awatef Sharayha briefed Queen Rania on services offered to members, including
medical and health lectures, computer courses and recreational visits among
other activities. She added that the club, which started with five members and
now counts 55, was aspiring to have a permanent facility and for its activities
to be spread nationwide.
Monday's meeting with members of the club came in line with the Queen's
humanitarian efforts to reach out to citizens in all sectors of society. The
Queen chatted with club members, inquiring about their needs, and stressing the
need to keep acquiring new skills to be able to keep abreast of developments
worldwide.
Club members expressed their gratitude for Queen Rania's visit, which
demonstrates Her Majesty's ongoing interest in the situation of the elderly and
appreciation for their contribution to society through years of service in
various areas and fields.
Her Royal Highness Princess Muna is honorary chairperson of the Sitt-el-Kul
Club.