Equal work by men, women can ensure progress, PM tells women

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday urged women to contribute equally to building the country and society alongside their male counterparts, reports UNB.

"Today, if we want to progress economically, men and women must work together to build a country," she said.

The premier made these remarks during a discussion and Joyeeta Award-giving ceremony held in the city to commemorate the International Women's Day 2024.

The Women and Children Affairs Ministry organised the event at Osmani Memorial Auditorium.

The PM emphasised that if women, who make up half of society, do not step forward and work, then society cannot develop or lead.

"We can only move forward if men and women work together. Our progress is a result of ensuring women's participation," she added.

Hasina expressed optimism that on this International Women's Day, the women of Bangladesh would not be left behind.

She noted that Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman ensured women's constitutional rights, and her party, Bangladesh Awami League, is the only political party in the country that mentions equal rights for men and women in its charter and election manifesto.

"We have shown, not just in words, but in actions when in power," she added.

Hasina highlighted the opportunities her government has created and encouraged women to step forward, as they do most of the work.

Referring to her government's vision for 2041, she emphasised the importance of women's involvement in building a Smart Bangladesh. The prime minister presented the "Best Joyeeta Award-2023" at the national level to five women for their outstanding achievements in various fields.

The awardees included Anar Koli (economic) from Mymensingh, Kalyani Minji (education and employment) from Rajshahi, Komoli Robi Dash (successful mother) from Moulvibazar, Jahanara Begum (repression prevention) from Barguna, and Pakhi Dutta Hijra (social development) from Khulna.

State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Simeen Hussain (Rimi) presided over the event, while Women and Children Affairs Secretary Nazma Mobarek delivered the welcome speech.

Kallyani Minji, speaking on behalf of the Joyeeta Awardees, shared her feelings upon receiving the award. She described a "Joyeeta" as a woman who achieves success by overcoming obstacles, symbolizing a resilient and determined woman. The government confers the Joyeeta award annually in five categories to women who have excelled economically, in education and employment, as successful mothers, in overcoming past trauma, and in contributing to social development.