Padakhep holds awareness event on safe parenting, prevention of gender-based violence

Development organization Padakhep organized an awareness programme titled “Know, Speak Up, Stop Violence” at its head office in the capital on Tuesday to promote prevention of gender-based violence and foster safer, more supportive and respectful workplaces and communities.

The event brought together officials and employees from different levels of the organization through both in-person and online participation.

The programme focused on raising awareness about gender-based violence, cyberbullying, cyber harassment and safe parenting.

Discussions covered different forms of violence, early warning signs, common misconceptions, potential risks in workplaces and online spaces, as well as legal rights and available protection and support for survivors.

The event also emphasized responsible parenting and the importance of creating safe and respectful environments for children, families and communities.

ABM Siddique, Founder and President of Padakhep, inaugurated the programme.

He underscored the shared responsibility of individuals and institutions in preventing violence and said speaking up through appropriate channels and standing beside survivors are important steps toward creating safer environments.

Shazib Hasnat, Joint Director of Microfinance Operation and Head of Safeguarding at Padakhep, discussed key aspects of safeguarding and gender-based violence.

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He stressed the importance of recognizing different forms of violence and their early warning signs, identifying potential risks and ensuring that everyone plays a responsible role in maintaining a safe workplace.

Liza Begum, Deputy Police Commissioner of the Women Support and Investigation Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, attended the event as the special speaker.

She discussed the legal rights and protection available to survivors and outlined appropriate procedures for reporting incidents.

She encouraged participants to report incidents to the appropriate authorities rather than remain silent and to seek assistance from law enforcement agencies when necessary.

She also briefed participants on accessing emergency and support services through 999 and 109, among other available mechanisms.

Padakhep said such initiatives are intended to strengthen employees’ understanding of gender-based violence, help them identify potential risks and encourage appropriate action when necessary.

The organization also said these efforts contribute to building a workplace culture based on safety, mutual respect and shared responsibility.

The event was moderated by Ummay Sumaiya Mutiatur Rasul, Joint Director of Padakhep’s Brand and Communications Division.