In a significant move toward creating safer work environments, Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) hosted Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) Ms. Fauzia Viqar at its Islamabad headquarters on Wednesday.
High-Level Engagement and Seminar
Ms. Fauzia Viqar was formally received by Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti, President and CEO of ZTBL, marking the beginning of an important collaborative event between the two institutions. The centerpiece of the visit was an awareness seminar focused on the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010.
The session achieved widespread participation through a hybrid model, with ZTBL employees from senior management to branch staff across Pakistan attending both in person and virtually via Zoom platform.
Key Addresses and Legal Framework
During her keynote address, Ms. Fauzia Viqar emphasized the critical importance of establishing work environments that are safe, respectful, and inclusive for all employees. She highlighted the legal protections available under the existing legislation.
President/CEO Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti reinforced the bank's firm commitment to maintaining workplace dignity and implementing a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of harassment. His address underscored ZTBL's institutional dedication to these principles.
Detailed Legal Briefings and Employee Interaction
The seminar featured comprehensive technical presentations by FOSPAH representatives. Waqar Ahmed, serving as Assistant Registrar and principal speaker, along with Ms. Momina Asif, Communications Officer, provided detailed explanations of the legal framework established by the Workplace Act of 2010.
Their presentations covered essential aspects including:
- The complete legal framework of the harassment prevention act
- Proper procedures for reporting incidents
- Clear institutional responsibilities under the law
A dedicated question and answer session enabled employees to seek clarifications directly from the experts, fostering meaningful engagement between staff members and the speakers.
The event concluded with a ceremonial exchange of souvenirs between ZTBL and FOSPAH, symbolizing their shared commitment to ensuring safe and equitable workplaces for all banking sector employees.
