President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Sunday said national progress and prosperity are impossible if women remain excluded from the mainstream of the state and society.
He urged all stakeholders to take effective steps to ensure women’s rights and called on the younger generation to embrace the values of equality.
The President made the remarks while addressing a discussion marking International Women’s Day at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital on Sunday morning.
He said “The government has introduced the Family Card initiative to empower economically disadvantaged women and support struggling families.”
“The programme will help strengthen economic self-reliance among families and contribute to women’s empowerment” he noted.
Shahabuddin also recalled the role of martyred President Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia in advancing women’s political and economic empowerment through landmark initiatives.
He added that the current government plans to introduce free education for women up to the postgraduate level.
Highlighting the importance of equality, the President stressed that excluding women from the mainstream of national life undermines development and prosperity. He urged young people to champion fairness and equal rights in society.
During the event, former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia received the ‘Best Indomitable Women’ (Sreshtho Odommo Nari) Award for her contribution to women’s empowerment.
Her granddaughter Zaima Rahman accepted the posthumous honour on her behalf from the President.
At the ceremony, awards were also presented to five women selected from among 39 nominees across eight divisions for their outstanding contributions.
Speaking at the event, Zubaida Rahman praised Khaleda Zia’s resilience and leadership, saying her determination inspires women’s strength and leadership. She called for renewed commitments to honesty, dignity and social justice on Women’s Day.
Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Dr AZM Zahid Hossain said Khaleda Zia brought revolutionary changes to women’s education, adding that Tarique Rahman continues to advance those efforts. He also said the government believes in an inclusive democratic philosophy.
Thousands of women from various professions attended the discussion and the Adommo Nari Award ceremony marking International Women’s Day.
