Ten women have received ‘The Mujib100 Research Grants for Women in Science in Bangladesh’ in commemoration of the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and in celebration of icddr,b’s 60 years of scientific brilliance.
Icddr,b hosted the award ceremony at its Sasakawa Auditorium on Tuesday. Ten awards worth a combined amount of $400,000, said a media release.
The ten award winners are — Dr Tanjila Karim, Tahmina Sultana, Wasifa Tasnim Shamma, Nurjahan Khatun, Dr Mossamet Kamrun Nesa, Dr Nowshin Papri, Dr Shahria Hafiz Kakon, Dr Kamrun Nahar Koly, Dr Nurun Nahar Naila, and Gulshan Ara.
This research grant is the first initiative of its kind to build a new generation of women researchers and scientists in Bangladesh.
Icddr,b Executive Director Dr Tahmeed Ahmed welcomed the audience while Health Minister Zahid Maleque was the chief guest.
In his address, Zahid Maleque said, “Under the leadership of our Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, women in Bangladesh are not lagging behind in any sector. I feel very pleased to see icddr,b presenting the grant to deserving female researchers and scientists, and firmly believe that this initiative of empowering women will help Bangladesh achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.”
Dr Ahmed said, “The participation of women and girls in science is crucial as female researchers are an important part in major innovations and breakthrough research. icddr,b is proud to present this award to deserving female researchers to embark on their research and innovation in public health and assist them in reaching their full potential.”
The awardees were given the research grants under eight thematic areas (maternal and child health, enteric and respiratory infections, emerging and re-emerging infections, malnutrition, universal health coverage, health consequences of climate change, non-communicable diseases, and sexual and reproductive health rights) aligned with icddr,b’s strategic goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The awardees were evaluated based on the merit of their proposal along with credentials of the project lead. icddr,b’s Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) comprising of scientists and public health experts from across the globe evaluated the projects.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had great admiration for icddr,b, which was earlier known as the Cholera Research Laboratory, and used to involve icddr,b whenever there was a public health crisis in Bangladesh, added the release.
Source: United News of Bangladesh