The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) recently held a significant anti-corruption awareness session at the headquarters of Vinod Patel And Company Pte Limited in Nabua. The session aimed to enhance employees’ understanding of corruption risks and promote effective preventative strategies. Participation from staff across all divisions of Vinod Patel underscored the company’s dedication to maintaining integrity in its business practices.
Paulina Rauca, Principal Corruption Prevention Officer at FICAC, emphasized the importance of recognizing potential corruption risks within the workplace. She noted that educating employees on internal policies, especially regarding gift-giving, is essential for fostering a culture of integrity. “Knowledge is the first line of defense against corruption. We empower individuals to recognize and resist its allure,” Rauca stated, highlighting the proactive measures firms like Vinod Patel can adopt in the ongoing battle against corruption.
Vinod Patel’s General Manager for Environmental, Social, and Governance, Latileta Qoro, expressed appreciation for FICAC’s valuable insights shared during the session, saying it has significantly reinforced the company’s anti-corruption framework. Additionally, Davies Mani, General Manager of Properties and Projects, praised the session for preparing employees to handle complex ethical challenges, particularly in their interactions with government officials and local authorities.
This event also aligned with Vinod Patel’s recent launch of its Anti-Bribery Policy, representing an essential milestone in their approach to combat corruption. Qoro confirmed that the company intends to persist with these awareness sessions in partnership with FICAC’s Education and Prevention team, aimed at strengthening internal controls and risk management.
FICAC’s initiative is part of a wider effort to educate both the public and businesses about the importance of integrity. Following a similar campaign conducted with the Ministry of Public Works, FICAC continues to stress public education as the cornerstone of accountability across different sectors. Through ongoing partnerships and awareness efforts, Fiji is making significant strides toward establishing a culture that resists corruption.
The collaboration between FICAC and Vinod Patel exemplifies a positive trajectory toward enhanced transparency and accountability in governance, paving the way for a future where integrity flourishes and corruption is effectively minimized.
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