Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today emphasized the importance of incorporating women’s participation in constructing a new Bangladesh, drawing inspiration from Begum Rokeya’s fight for women’s rights. “Today’s women society is totally different. The post uprising women society is one to build the new Bangladesh. The journey of the new Bangladesh started with them. They are inspiring not only for women but for all. We need to uphold them,” he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Chief Adviser made these remarks while acknowledging the Begum Rokeya Padak 2025 recipients at an event held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium. Prof Yunus highlighted that over time, Begum Rokeya’s contributions have predominantly been celebrated in literature. He encouraged everyone to actively support and advance women’s causes.
He further elaborated on the significance of the Begum Rokeya Padak, describing it as an epoch-making award. He noted that the awardees have elevated Bangladesh’s standing globally and possess the potential to lead not just the nation but the entire world.
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs organized the event to commemorate Begum Rokeya Day 2025, marking the 145th birth anniversary and the 93rd death anniversary of Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, a pioneering advocate for women’s rights and education. Prof Yunus underscored the progress women have made in various sectors, particularly in education, and called for equal opportunities for women across all sectors.
He acknowledged the pivotal role of women during the 2024 July Uprising against the fascist regime and praised the contributions of the Begum Rokeya Padak awardees. Prof Yunus emphasized the need to create space for women to lead the nation.
Reflecting on the failures to fully realize Begum Rokeya’s visions, Prof Yunus remarked, “Even after 100 years, we have not been able to create another Rokeya. This is our misfortune. We have not been able to implement the directions she had given and the dreams she had shown.”
Prof Yunus urged the nation to dream boldly, inspired by Rokeya’s visionary ideas, and to leverage modern technology to advance the country. He recounted the struggles women faced during the 1974 famine and shared his experiences from his teaching career at Chattogram University and the inception of Grameen Bank.
Highlighting their efforts in empowering women in Jobra village through literacy programs and microcredit, he stressed the revolutionary nature of Begum Rokeya’s thoughts and advocated incorporating her ideals into daily life.
In a significant announcement, the Chief Adviser revealed the renaming of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs to ‘Nari O Shishu Mantranalay’ from ‘Mohila O Shishu Mantranalay’.
Dr. Rubhana Rakib was honored in the women’s education (research) category, while Kalpana Akter received recognition for women’s rights (labour). Dr. Nabila Idris was awarded for human rights, and Ritu Porna Chakma was acknowledged for women’s awakening (sports).
The event, chaired by Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid, was attended by government advisers, distinguished personalities, and family members of the awardees. Senior Secretary of the Women and Children Affairs Ministry Mamtaz Ahmed delivered the welcome address.
A cultural program, including a documentary screening titled “Ami-e Rokeya,” highlighted Begum Rokeya’s contributions to women’s education and her fight against child marriage, showcasing her pivotal role in empowering women and promoting education as a key to establishing women’s rights.