Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus. File photo

DHAKA, Dec 9, 2025 (BSS) - Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today distributed the Begum Rokeya Padak 2025 among four distinguished women in recognition of their contributions to women's education and rights, human rights and women's awakening. 

Dr Rubhana Rakib, a physician, received the award in the category of women's education (research) while Kalpana Akter, a labour leader, got in the category of women's rights (labour).

Dr Nabila Idris, a rights activist, received the prestigious award in the category of human rights while Ritu Porna Chakma, a member of Bangladesh Women's National Football Team, won the award in the category of women's awakening (sports). 

The Chief Adviser handed over the awards to the recipients at a gala event at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium here this morning. 

The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs organised the function marking the Begum Rokeya Day 2025 in observance of the 145th birth anniversary and the 93rd death anniversary of Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, a pioneering advocate for women's rights and education.

Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid chaired the event while other advisers of the interim government, distinguished personalities as well as family members and relatives of the awardees were present at the function. Senior Secretary of the Women and Children Affairs Ministry Mamtaz Ahmed delivered the welcome address at the function.

A cultural programme, including the screening of a documentary titled Ami-e Rokeya, was held to highlight Begum Rokeya's contributions to promoting women's education and combating child marriage.

The event also showcased Begum Rokeya's role in inspiring women and the progress of women's empowerment in the country. It emphasized education as the key to establishing women's rights.