Article by: Faria Nuzhat
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina presented the Bangamata Begum Fazilatun Nesha Mujib Padak-2023 to four distinguished women along with the national women’s football team. The award ceremony, held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the city, was organized by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, with the Prime Minister as the chief guest.
The event coincided with the 93rd birth anniversary of Bangamata Begum Fazilatun Nesha Mujib, the esteemed spouse of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Among the awardees were the national women’s football team for their contributions to sports. The other remarkable women who received the award were Advocate Sahara Khatun (posthumously) for her political contributions, Nasima Jaman Bobi and Anima Mukti Gomes for their achievements in education, culture, and sports, and Dr. Senjuti Saha for her impactful research work.
Under the chairmanship of State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Fazilatun Nessa Indira, the ceremony commenced, with Secretary Nazma Mobarek delivering the welcome address. Dr. Tania Huq, a Professor at the Department of Women and Gender Studies at the University of Dhaka, delivered a keynote presentation on the life and endeavors of Bangamata. Jatiyo Mohila Sangstha Chairman Begum Chemon Ara Tayab also participated as a discussant.
Sabina Khatun, the captain of the national women’s football team, spoke on behalf of the award recipients. The event began with an audio-visual documentary showcasing the remarkable life and achievements of Bangamata.
In honor of Bangamata’s remarkable contributions, up to five women are acknowledged annually for their exceptional achievements in eight distinct fields.
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs had previously nominated both the national women’s football team and four outstanding women for this year’s award, acknowledging their significant contributions to politics, education, culture, sports, and research.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina also inaugurated a program for financial donations and the distribution of sewing machines. A total of 4,500 sewing machines are being distributed across 64 districts, accompanied by a financial grant of Taka 2,000 provided to 3,000 underprivileged women.