Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has received a special memento titled “Tree of Peace” from UNESCO in recognition to her outstanding contribution to the promotion of girls' and women's education.
UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova presented the memento to the premier on Monday at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in the capital on the occasion of the International Literacy Day 2014, reports BSS.
Receiving the memento, Sheikh Hasina dedicated it to all the women and children of the country.
Before handing over the memento, the UNESCO director general said: "Her Excellency Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is a strong advocate on the world stage in girls and women education, a certain prerequisite for political and economic empowerment."
"Last but not least, you're a close friend, UNESCO, particularly I was hounoured that H E joined me in launching the Global Partnership for Girls and Women Education in 2011," Bokova said.
The UNESCO director general said Bangladesh became a champion country of the 'Global Education First Initiative' under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
"For all these reasons, Her Excellency, dear Prime Minister, I wish to express recognition to you by presenting a "Tree of Peace", which is a symbol of understanding, peace and freedom," she said.
Sheikh Hasina opened a daylong "International Conference on "Girls' and Women's Literacy and Education: Foundations for Sustainable Development" at Bangabandhu International Conference Center marking the International Literacy Day 2014.
The government of Bangladesh in partnership with UNESCO and in support of the UN Secretary General's Global Education First Initiative (GEFI) organised the programme.
Representatives from some 36 countries across the world took part in the conference.
