News Flash
PIROJPUR, April 22, 2026 (BSS) - A 17-year-old schoolgirl of the district has
been awarded the 'Daughter Courage' honor for her bold stand against child
marriage, setting an inspiring example for others in her community.
Tehmina Akhter, an SSC examinee from Setara Smriti Government Girls' School
in Jianagar upazila, was recognized by the district administration after she
took decisive action to stop her own early marriage and continue her
education.
The award was presented at a programme held on Wednesday at the Shaheed
Abdur-Razzaq-Saif Mizan conference room in the Deputy Commissioner's office.
Deputy Commissioner Abu Sayeed handed over the honor, which included a
certificate and financial assistance to support her studies.
According to officials, just days before her SSC examination, Tehmina's
family arranged her marriage to an expatriate groom due to financial
hardship. Refusing to accept the decision, she sought help at the local
police station to escape mounting family pressure.
With support from the upazila administration, police, and community leaders,
the marriage was successfully halted. Authorities also secured a formal
commitment from her parents to refrain from arranging her marriage until she
reaches legal age.
Tehmina, the youngest of five children from Charakhali village in Indurkani
union, has been praised for her determination and courage.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Commissioner Abu Sayeed described her actions
as "truly exemplary," saying that her courage would inspire other girls to
resist child marriage and pursue education.
Officials reiterated the government's commitment to promoting girls'
education and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against child marriage.
Additional District Magistrate Tanjila Kabir Tropa, Deputy Director of the
Women's Affairs Department Monika Akhter and Jianagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer
Hasan Md. Hafizur Rahman, along with members of Tehmina's family were
present.
