Dhiraagu has partnered with the International Financial Corporation (IFC) to launch the company’s Gender Advisory Programme which will build on the significant work Dhiraagu has already done on promoting gender equality. IFC will work with Dhiraagu to strengthen the company’s gender action plan and unlock business opportunities by adopting a strong gender lens throughout its operations.
This partnership will complement the initiatives under Dhiraagu’s Gender Action Plan which was launched earlier this year. This is a key focus area for the company which aims to ensure the advancement of women as employees and as leaders in technical and non-technical roles within the company.
“I thank IFC for providing their expertise to work with us in accelerating our gender action plan, and helping us progress towards gender parity, to ensure Dhiraagu remains as a business that is more resilient, agile, and inclusive. We view this engagement as an incredible opportunity to tap into IFC’s expertise and strengthen our new Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) function,” stated Ismail Rasheed, CEO & MD at Dhiraagu.
Globally, IFC has long taken a comprehensive approach to reduce gender inequality by working with the private sector to encourage hiring of women and improving their working conditions, among other initiatives. Through this programme, IFC will help Dhiraagu meet the company’s gender commitments.
“We know that ensuring women have an equal place in business operations can increase companies’ overall performance and economic gains. IFC is proud to be partnering with Dhiraagu to enhance gender equality in line with the company’s business strategy. By taking this step, Dhiraagu is setting an important example for other companies on creating diverse and inclusive workplaces in Maldives,” said Alejandro Alvarez de la Campa, IFC Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives.
Dhiraagu celebrates a culture of no gender discrimination and equal opportunities. In 2019, Dhiraagu established the Women Empowerment Committee which further prioritised and advanced the company’s gender equality goals. The company also continues to support initiatives to inspire and empower women as part of its community through its Corporate Social Responsibility programmes.