On popular demand by its employees, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has launched a new Voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS), offering attractive financial benefits and facilitation options for employees. “VSS is a completely voluntary offer especially designed to ensure long-term welfare and well-being of our employees and their families,” said Senior Executive Vice President HR, Syed Mazhar Hussain while briefing the media here today. “Employees have a choice to either opt for a very attractive severance package, or continue working at PTCL which has always considered its employees as a top priority.” Giving details of the new VSS scheme, Mr. Hussain told the press that PTCL’s first 2008 VSS scheme had received a very positive response, which far exceeded expectations. He informed that the 2008 VSS was offered to 50,000 employees and 35,000 opted for it. “Honoring the hard work and commitment of our employees, PTCL invested huge sums to make their choice beneficial and rewarding,” said Mr. Hussain, adding that PTCL relieved 30,000 employees while around 5,000 applicants couldn’t be spared and it has since been a pressing demand from employees to introduce a similar scheme again. Explaining the key features of the new VSS scheme announced today, Mr. Hussain informed that it was being offered to approximately 16,000 employees. “We are offering yet another golden option to our employees to choose a rewarding future which may be a lifetime opportunity,” he said. “However, if they choose not to avail this opportunity, they will remain respectable employees of the company”. For raising awareness and consultation among employees, PTCL has undertaken an efficient nationwide mechanism comprising information & special counseling sessions, promotional road-shows, and financial advisory consultations & services. Special helpline and help desks have also been set up for the purpose with a toll-free number 0800-13531. “Our employees are PTCL’s most important asset and our aim is to provide them maximum facilitation and guidance in deciding a bright future for themselves,” said Mr. Hussain.