The Institute of Informatics and Development (IID) has recently carried out a Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) audit to better understand and strengthen inclusivity within its workplace. This initiative reflects IID’s recognition that an inclusive work environment is built through deliberate effort, continuous reflection, and meaningful engagement with staff at all levels.
Why the GESI Audit Matters
The audit aimed to assess whether IID’s policies, systems, and everyday practices align with its commitment to fairness, respect, and equal opportunity for all employees — regardless of gender, age, background, or identity. By adopting a structured and participatory approach, the process sought to move beyond assumptions and capture the lived experiences of staff across the organization.
How the Audit Was Conducted
The audit was led by GESI expert Sanaiyya Faheem Ansari, who guided a comprehensive, multi-method process to ensure diverse perspectives were included.
On 5 March 2026, three participatory workshops were held with different groups within IID. These included a session with the Senior Management Team and HR leadership, as well as separate reflection workshops for women and men. Creating these distinct spaces allowed participants to share experiences more openly, contributing to a deeper understanding of workplace dynamics.
Additional sessions were conducted on 16 March 2026, including a workshop with the HR and Admin team and a reflection session with junior and mid-level staff. This inclusive approach ensured that voices from across the organization contributed to the overall assessment.
To further enrich the findings, the audit team conducted trio interviews — small group discussions that explored how factors such as gender, role, and background influence workplace experiences. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were also carried out with members of the Senior Management Team, with further discussions planned with the CEO and governing body members to strengthen leadership engagement and accountability.
With the data collection phase complete, IID is now progressing toward the next stage of the process. A comprehensive GESI Audit Report will be developed, offering a clear and evidence-based assessment of the organization’s current practices.
Building on these findings, IID will develop a GESI Framework to guide future actions. This framework will serve as a practical roadmap for strengthening inclusive policies, systems, and workplace culture.
Through this initiative, IID reaffirms its commitment to fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute. The GESI audit marks an important step in IID’s ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable organization.