As with every year, this year too, the prestigious Independence Award will honor some of the most distinguished personalities in the country.
In a media briefing, Education and Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud revealed that this year's Independence Award, the highest national honor, will be presented to some truly distinguished personalities and institutions.
Following a meeting of the advisory committee on the Independence Award at the Secretariat, Wahiduddin said that the committee has recommended several names, which will be sent to Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus for final approval.
According to various sources, the list of honorees includes world-renowned scientist Professor Dr Jamal Nazrul Islam, writer and intellectual Badruddin Umar, Brac founder late Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, poet Al Mahmud, Central Shaheed Minar designer artist Novera Ahmed, and Buet student Abrar Fahad, who was killed by Chhatra League activists.
Dhaka Tribune could not verify the awardees' names from official sources.
Wahiduddin emphasized that this year’s awards would recognize extraordinary individuals and institutions for their outstanding contributions to the country.
Meanwhile, Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul added that, unlike previous years where the selection process was often influenced by group-based and political considerations, this time only the most deserving candidates would be honored.
He mentioned that fewer than 10 individuals would receive the Independence Award this year, stressing the importance of awarding this highest honor with utmost integrity.
Nazrul also highlighted past controversies, noting that even organizations like the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) had previously received the Independence Award.
He assured everyone that this year’s selection process would be free from such influences.
