TBT DESK: Chittagong Stock Exchange PLC (CSE) hosted a momentous event, "Ring the Bell for Gender Equality," in celebration of International Women's Day 2025 on 09 March 2025. This year's global theme, "Ring the Bell for All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment," resonated with CSE's commitment to promoting gender equality and empowerment.
The "Ring the Bell" program, celebrated by stock exchanges worldwide, is supported by the United Nations Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative, World Federation of Exchanges, UN Women, UN Global Compact, and International Finance Corporation. The primary objective of this initiative is to raise awareness about the significance of gender equality for business and sustainable development.
Presiding over the event, M Shaifur Rahman Mazumdar, FCA, FCMA, managing director of CSE, along with chief regulatory officer, Mohammed Mahadi Hassan, CFA, and other distinguished officials, highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace.
In his welcome address, Mazumdar emphasized CSE's unwavering commitment to gender equality: In solidarity with the global community, we at CSE renew our pledge to strengthen the working environment by celebrating Women's Day annually. Our continuous efforts aim to enhance standards, ensuring a conducive and empowering workplace for all employees. Promoting our activities internationally allows us to inspire others and share our progress.
Mohammed Mahadi Hassan, CFA, underscored the need for cultural equality in corporate environments, stating, that while our country has strides to make in achieving cultural equality, we are encouraged by recent positive changes. CSE is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing equal opportunities for all employees.
Mohammed Mazbah Uddin, general manager and Head of Information Technology, emphasized the importance of mutual respect in the workplace, respect is fundamental, and everyone deserves recognition for their contributions. We see significant progress among young women, and with the right opportunities, their potential is boundless.
Md Mortuza Alam, general manager and Head of TREC Marketing Services, echoed the sentiment, that recognition is key to today's theme. Despite the International Women's Day has been celebrated since 1909 and was officially recognised by the UN in 1977, much work remains. We urge efforts at both individual and national levels to implement balanced, impactful changes.
Sonia Hossain, DGM and Head of Legal Affairs & Head of HR called for ongoing commitment, change must be a daily endeavour. We need to cultivate supportive environments within our families and workplaces. Women deserve their rightful respect, and with proper support, they can achieve remarkable success.
Other CSE officials also shared their insights and experiences during the event. Concluding the event, Mazumdar thanked everyone for their participation and contributions. The celebration culminated with the honouring of female officers with flowers and mementoes.