Accolades for Syed Manzur Elahi, Firdausi Qadri, Amirul Islam Chowdhury

The Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) and the Daily Bonik Barta honoured three eminent citizens for their outstanding contributions to Bangladesh's development at a ceremony held at the Radisson Hotel in the capital on Tuesday.

The honourees were late industrialist Syed Manzur Elahi, renowned scientist Dr Firdausi Qadri, and distinguished economist Professor Amirul Islam Chowdhury.

Economic Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed, addressing the event, described the awardees as deeply patriotic "dreamers", whose vision and commitment have helped shape the country's progress in industry, science and education.

He praised the BIDS and Bonik Barta for this outstanding work of honouring visionaries.

Speaking on eminent citizens, International Chamber of Commerce, Bangladesh President Mahbubur Rahman remembered their contributions.

He fondly remembered his memories with his late friend Syed Manzur Elahi.

"Manzur was soft spoken, but a hard working person and sincere friend," said Mr Rahman.

Accepting the honour on behalf of his late father, Syed Nasim Manzur said his father lived by the principles of patriotism, ethics and merit, recalling his final message that Bangladesh must always come first.

"Always remember, of everything, put Bangladesh first," he remembered his father's words.

Hossain Zillur Rahman recalled his memories with Amirul Islam Chowdhury and his lifelong dedication.

In his introductory remarks, BIDS Director General Dr A K Enamul Haque highlighted Dr Qadri's global impact in medical research, particularly her pioneering work on cholera and typhoid vaccines, noting that her contributions have benefited people in Bangladesh and worldwide. He also praised her role in building independent research capacity in the country.

Dr Haque described Professor Chowdhury as one of the finest teachers of economics in Bangladesh. He also recalled his pivotal role as head of the probe committee into the 1996 stock market crash, saying the report remains a key document on market governance and accountability.

Paying tribute to Syed Manzur Elahi, Dr Haque termed him a visionary industrialist and nation builder, pointing to his contributions to industry and education, including the establishment of Apex, which employs thousands.

Special assistant to chief advisor, Dr Anisuzzaman, Dr Hasina Khan, and CPD Executive Director Fahmida Khatun, also spoke about the eminent citizens.

Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud moderated the programme.

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