FEMALE EMPLOYMENT INCREASES AS TINA HYDROPOWER CONSTRUCTION PROGRESSES

HYUNDAI Engineering Company (HEC), the Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) contractor of the Tina River Hydropower Development Project, have proudly announced a significant increase in the number of female employees during the first quarter of 2023. An ongoing commitment to its gender diversity and equality within our workforce.

Under the guidance and support of esteemed lenders, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Tina River Hydropower Development Project has diligently implemented the Gender Action Plan (GAP). This plan aims to foster equal opportunities for both women and men, ensuring their active participation and equitable access to project benefits. As part of this initiative, the project strives to achieve a minimum recruitment target of 30% women during the construction phase.

Tina Hou, the Admin Assistant/Human Resources Officer of HEC, expressed her enthusiasm about the growing interest of women seeking employment opportunities within our company.

"Our Human Resources Department has observed a consistent rise in the number of female applicants during the first quarter of 2023. We have been able to successfully recruit several talented women through our recent job advertisements, thanks to the high number of female applicants."

Ms. Hou further emphasized that the increased female employment spans across various departments, including construction, workshop, environment and social safeguards, administration, and the kitchen. This achievement was also underscored in the recent monthly report prepared by Tina Hydropower Limited (THL). The report revealed a 5% increase in the gender distribution percentage during the first quarter compared to the previous quarter.

"In the first quarter of 2023, HEC witnessed a rise in the number of female employees, totalling 16. Among them, 6 are skilled workers, 8 are semi-skilled workers, and 2 are unskilled workers. These figures indicate that currently, 20% of our workforce comprises female employees," Ms. Hou noted, referring to the data provided in the THL monthly progress report for the project.

Fiona Rodie, THL's Governance Lead, expressed her appreciation for the efforts made to achieve the 30% female employment target. "We find it encouraging that the Tina River Hydropower Development Project is actively working towards promoting gender equality. Increasing gender diversity within the workforce is a crucial step towards fostering equality and creating an inclusive workplace environment."

Ms. Rodie further acknowledged the evolving perception in the construction industry, stating, "Traditionally, the construction industry has been male-dominated. However, there is a growing recognition of the benefits that a diverse workforce brings to the table."

She highlighted the positive progress in increasing female employment within the construction industry and expressed THL's hope to see more women joining the Tina Hydro Project to promote gender diversity in the workforce.