1. INTRODUCTION

Epsidon Technology Holdings is dedicated to fostering an inclusive society that acknowledges the inherent rights of all individuals, irrespective of race, gender, language, religion, or any other status. Fundamental values of Epsidon Technology Holdings include a commitment to human rights and the establishment of equitable labour practices, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. We are devoted to upholding and promoting human rights in alignment with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights in our interactions with stakeholders. This commitment applies both to our role as an employer and as a service provider in the financial sector, creating value for a diverse range of stakeholders, including shareholders, clients, and society at large.

2. PURPOSE

Epsidon Technology Holdings is driven by a clear purpose: to advance and protect human rights in all aspects of our operations. We are dedicated to ensuring coherence among our embedded policies throughout the organisation. To achieve this, Epsidon Technology Holdings; business is conducted ethically, accountably, and transparently, with a steadfast commitment to upholding and enhancing human rights. These principles are integral to Epsidon Technology Holdings’ values, shaping every facet of its operations.

3. DEFINITIONS

3.1 Human Rights: Human rights are rights that everyone should have simply because they are human; the fundamental rights, freedoms, and standards of treatment that are internationally recognised as belonging to all human beings by virtue of being human. Fundamental human rights are found in the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Page 4 of 7 Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, the eight core International Labour Organisation Conventions, and various covenants and treaties that implement these principles.
3.2 International Labour Organisation: The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is the international organisation under the United Nations responsible for developing and overseeing international labour standards. It is the only United Nations agency that brings together representatives of governments, employers, and workers to jointly shape policies/programs promoting decent work for all.
3.3 ILO Conventions (ILO): The Freedom of Association and Protection of the Rights to Organise Convention, 1948; the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949; the Forced Labour Convention, 1930; the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957; the Minimum Age Convention, 1973; the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999; the Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951; and the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958.
3.4 United Nations Global Compact (UNGC): The UN Global Compact is a strategic policy initiative for businesses that are committed to aligning their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. The Global Compact exists to assist the private sector in the management of increasingly complex risks and opportunities in the environmental, social and governance realms, seeking to embed markets and societies with universal principles and values for the benefit of all.
3.5 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR): The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. It contains thirty human rights that are expected to be universally respected and protected.

4. PRINCIPLES

Epsidon Technology Holdings is dedicated to upholding people’s rights concerning freedom of expression and access to information. Acknowledging the Government’s role in honouring the commitments of our Constitution to establish a just, free, and fair society, corporate entities like Epsidon Technology Holdings carry the responsibility of leveraging business influence to actualise these ideals. Epsidon Technology Holdings upholds the following principles:

a. Epsidon Technology Holdings prioritises treating clients with dignity and respect, ensuring their right to privacy is carefully safeguarded.
b. Epsidon Technology Holdings integrates environmental, social, and governance impacts into decision-making, influencing others to uphold higher standards, including considerations for human rights.
c. In its partnership with shareholders, Epsidon Technology Holdings upholds ethical business practices to create transparent and lasting value, adhering to the principles of good corporate governance.
d. As a contributing member of society, Epsidon Technology Holdings is dedicated to empowering marginalised, underserved, and under-resourced communities to enhance socio-economic outcomes for themselves and their families, supported by strategic social investments.
e. Epsidon Technology Holdings actively encourages employees to utilise a grievance mechanism for policing any incidents of human rights violations.

5. DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Technology Holdings places a high value on and actively promotes diversity and inclusion among its
workforces. The company is unwaveringly committed to equal opportunity and steadfastly opposes any form of
discrimination or harassment. Epsidon Technology Holdings is dedicated to cultivating workplaces that are void of
discrimination or harassment based on various factors, including race, sex, colour, national or social origin, ethnicity,
religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identification or expression, political opinion, or any other status
protected by applicable law.

Recruitment, employee development, training, compensation, and advancement at Epsidon Technology Holdings are
grounded in qualifications, performance, skills, and experience. The company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for
disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour, unfair treatment, or any form of retaliation. Harassment is strictly prohibited
in the workplace and in any work-related circumstances outside the workplace.

6. FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING

Epsidon Technology Holdings upholds the right of its employees to join, form, or choose not to join a trade union, and this choice is respected without any fear of reprisal, intimidation, or harassment. When necessary, Epsidon Technology Holdings is dedicated to fostering a constructive dialogue with the freely chosen representatives of employees. Furthermore, Epsidon Technology Holdings is committed to engaging in good-faith bargaining with these representatives.

7. HEALTH AND SAFETY

Epsidon Technology Holdings prioritises the safety and health of its employees as a matter of utmost importance. The company’s policy is to ensure a safe and healthy workplace, adhering to relevant safety and health laws, regulations, and internal requirements. Through collaboration with employees Epsidon Technology Holdings actively works to establish and sustain a workplace that is both safe and healthy, addressing and remedying identified risks related to accidents, injuries, and health impacts.

8. GOVERNANCE AND APPROVAL

Ownership of this Policy lies with the Head of Group Risk and Compliance at Epsidon Technology Holdings. In the operationalisation of this Policy, there will be a dedicated effort to ensure compliance, including rigorous monitoring and policing mechanisms. The Head of Group Risk and Compliance will oversee the implementation of this Policy. Any necessary adjustments or enhancements to this Policy will be made in response to monitoring outcomes and feedback from employees.