As the world grapples with the extraordinary ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are confronting a human emergency dissimilar to any we have ever encountered. The rippling effects of this pandemic on our already fragile economic posture are much adverse, therefore, the frail social fabric is under extreme pressure. The pandemic has posed a serious threat around the globe, affecting humanity without distinction. Owing to this gigantic challenging situation, FFC once again took the lead and in these extremely trying and uncertain conditions, provided solace to the customers and communities. FFC takes pride in placing its community, customers and country on top priority. We are deeply concerned about the health and safety of our employees and their families and well-being of our farmers and the communities. These difficult times are indeed giving us an opportunity to look inward, reflect on what truly matters, and connect with ourselves and loved ones on a deeper level, which personify strength of the human spirit to endure.
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy
Initiatives Against Covid-19 For Pakistan Establishment Of Crisis Management Committee (CMC)
Crisis Management Committee (CMC) was composed to look after different aspects of well-being of employees and their families, business operations, external workforce, workplace management, operations & material management, townships & community assistance etc.
Work Place Management
Efforts have been made to follow the Government SOPs and ensure social distancing tailoring HR Management Practices suiting work from home at head office and at plant sites. Adhering to strict hygienic standards at all departments, deactivation of biometric attendance to ensure minimal contact, regular disinfection of frequently contacted surfaces at all locations as per WHO standards and restricting all in-person meetings while encouraging video/ tele-conferencing.
Effective Use Of Information Technology
New applications pertaining to food and ration distribution have been made functional for ensuring well-being of employees through a survey for HR Division using QUALTRICS(c). In order to ensure children's safety and to cover the void in education, online education system has been effectively put in place on regular use.
Well Being of Employees and their Families
Wellbeing of employees and their families is being ensured through community awareness and risk communication programs, travel advisories for safer travel options and requisite precautions. A system of Health Monitoring Mechanism for all has been established while keeping in view the quarantine requirements. Way forward and strategies to mitigate impacts of COVID-19 are made an essential part of FFC's Business Continuity Plan.
External Workforce Management
In order to avoid exposure to FFC's workforce, a deliberate system for effective Manpower Management has been maintained through a single point of entry Control. In addition, the number of visitors/ guests have been restricted to bare minimum.
Assistance for Farmers
Famers are being assisted through our SMS Advisory, dedicated FARM Visits, Online Training Sessions, and Radio Talks. They are also being guided on Crop Operation and locust control through WhatsApp advisory and communication through email.
Township Management
At our townships, preventive measures against COVID-19 have been taken while ensuring less - minimal visits to club, markets, transportation services and mosques etc.
What Might Happen Post COVID-19?
As economies collapse the world over, we are benefiting from an unprecedented fall in oil prices. Loans are being restructured or rescheduled which is yet another advantage. Lessons of cleanliness and discipline are being driven home. However, the world after the first wave of COVID-19 must be more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.
Too many countries suffered the external shocks of COVID-19 without universal social protection, robust public health systems, a plan to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, or a sustainable real economy with quality jobs. Many of the problems we will face in the next decade will simply be more extreme versions of those that we already confront today. The world will look significantly different this time, as we emerge from this crisis, if we decide to take action to resolve these problems and bring about fundamental change.
As history has shown, choices made during crises can shape the world for decades to come. What will remain critical is the need for collective action to build economies that deliver inclusive economic growth, prosperity, and safety for all. Stay healthy and stay safe.
CE & MD LT GEN TARIQ KHAN, HI (M) (RETD)
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