On the occasion of International Women's Day, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed said, the government is committed to ensuring women’s empowerment, equality, and prosperity under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
She announced that the government plans to introduce free postgraduate education for girls as part of its efforts to strengthen women’s empowerment. In addition, initiatives will be taken to ensure swift justice against online harassment, gender-based violence, rape, abuse, acid attacks, and the trafficking of women and children.
Shama Obaed made these remarks on Sunday while speaking at a discussion organized by the National Press Club marking International Women’s Day.
Shama Obaed said, I may be part of the government, but my greatest identity is that I am a mother, a daughter, and a woman. she said, From my position, I want to ensure that any rapist—whoever they may be—is brought under the law in Bangladesh and faces swift justice.
Highlighting her concern about the challenges women face, the minister said, this year’s theme serves as a reminder of the guiding path for women’s advancement.
She also paid tribute to the late prime minister Khaleda Zia, describing her as a pioneer in women’s empowerment who opened a new chapter in the country’s political history. Obaed noted that Khaleda Zia deeply respected women’s education pioneer Begum Rokeya as a guiding inspiration.
At the event, Press Club President Hasan Hafiz extended greetings on International Women’s Day and expressed hope that women would continue to move forward by overcoming obstacles. He also emphasized the importance of greater participation of women in politics.
During the program, senior journalist Momtaz Bilkis Bano was honored with a commemorative award from the National Press Club for her outstanding contributions to women’s journalism.
