Development organisation Padakhep has organised an awareness programme titled “Know, Speak Up, Stop Violence” to promote the prevention of gender-based violence and foster a safe, supportive, and dignified environment across workplaces and society.
The event was held at Padakhep’s head office on Tuesday, with officials and employees from various levels participating both in person and online.
The session focused on gender-based violence, cyberbullying, cyber harassment, and safe parenting.
Discussions encompassed different forms of violence, their early warning signs, common misconceptions, and strategies for identifying and responding to potential risks in both physical workplaces and digital spaces.
It also addressed legal rights, protection, and available support for survivors, alongside highlighting the importance of responsible parenting in building safer, respectful environments for children, families, and communities.
Inaugurating the programme, ABM Siddique, founder and president of Padakhep, highlighted the shared responsibility of individuals and institutions in preventing violence.
He stressed the importance of speaking up through appropriate channels when necessary and standing beside survivors to cultivate a safer environment.
Shazib Hasnat, joint director of Microfinance Operation and head of Safeguarding at Padakhep, discussed key aspects of safeguarding and gender-based violence.
He emphasised the need to recognise different forms of violence and their early warning signs, identify potential risks, and ensure that every individual plays a responsible role in maintaining workplace safety.
Attending as the special speaker, Liza Begum, PSC, deputy police commissioner of the Women Support and Investigation Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, outlined the legal rights and protections available to survivors and explained proper reporting procedures.
She urged participants to report incidents to relevant authorities rather than staying silent and to seek law enforcement assistance when required.
Moreover, she briefed attendees on accessing essential support through the 999 and 109 emergency helplines, among other mechanisms.
Padakhep noted that such initiatives enable employees to develop a clearer understanding of gender-based violence, recognise potential risks, and take timely action.
The organisation added that these efforts contribute to strengthening a workplace culture grounded in safety, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
The event was moderated by Ummay Sumaiya Mutiatur Rasul, joint director of Padakhep’s Brand and Communications Division.
