Rajshahi: Various government and non-government development organizations observed International Women’s Day 2025 in Rajshahi with a collective call to end violence, disparity, and discrimination against women for the nation’s overall development.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” highlights the global commitment to achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls. To commemorate the day, the district administration and the Department of Women Affairs organized a post-rally discussion at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall in Rajshahi city.
The event featured Commissioner of Rajshahi division Khandaker Azim Ahmed as the chief guest, with Deputy Commissioner Afiya Akhter presiding over the meeting. Other speakers included Superintendent of Police Farzana Islam, Medical Officer Dr. Tamanna Kabir from the Civil Surgeon Office, Professor Sagar Kumar from Rajshahi College, and Khatib Abdullah Al Mamun from Upashahar Model Mosque and Islami Cultural Centre. Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs Shanom Shirin welcomed the participants.
The discussants agreed that this year’s theme is timely and relevant, expressing support for all the day’s programs. Commissioner Khandaker Azim Ahmed emphasized that achieving gender balance is essential for substantial and sustainable national progress and economic development. He also highlighted the critical need for community support from teachers, parents, and influential leaders to combat child marriage, which hinders socio-economic development and contributes to violence against women.
In addition to the official discussion, various development and volunteer organizations, including Bangladesh Mohila Parishad (BMP), Paribartan, Barendra Unnayan Prochesta, Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association (BNWLA), Association for Community Development (ACD), Centre for Capacity Building and Voluntary Organization, and Ladies Organisation for Social Welfare conducted a post-rally street corner meeting at Shaheb Bazar Zero Point.