Begum Rokeya paved way for women’s journey from darkness to light

Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday said Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, widely known as Begum Rokeya, led women from darkness to light through her far-reaching movement for women’s liberation and human rights.

“Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain brought the women’s community from darkness to light through a massive social movement for women’s liberation and human rights,” he said in a message on the occasion of Begum Rokeya Day, to be observed tomorrow.

Dr Yunus said, “Like every year, I am happy to know that Begum Rokeya Day is being observed in memory of Begum Rokeya, the pioneer of women’s education in the country, on December 9.”

The nation will forever remember her outstanding contribution to establishing the women of this region in a position of due dignity, he said, adding, “Today, on the occasion of Begum Rokeya Day, I pay deep respect to the memory of this great woman.”

Education is the key to improving the lives of women who were left behind in the conservative social system of the nineteenth century, Dr Yunus said, adding that based on this realisation, Begum Rokeya played a courageous role in expanding women’s education.

In continuation of the journey that Begum Rokeya began for women’s development, the interim government is working for women’s empowerment, he added.

The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has taken various steps towards this end, he said, adding that notable initiatives include the Vulnerable Women Benefit (VWB) programme for the socio-economic development of underprivileged rural women; financial assistance for poor pregnant mothers in rural areas and low-income working mothers in urban areas; and nationwide microcredit programmes aimed at promoting self-employment among women at the grassroots.

In addition, support is being provided to develop women entrepreneurs in marginalised communities, while working women’s hostels are being operated to ensure safe accommodation for employed women, he said.

Under the project to strengthen integrated services for the prevention and redress of violence against women and children, a 24/7 toll-free hotline (109) has been launched to provide immediate assistance through the Quick Response Team, he said.

“I congratulate those who have received the Begum Rokeya Padak for their contribution to women’s rights and socio-economic development, following the example set by Begum Rokeya,” Dr Yunus said.

The Chief Adviser wished the overall success of all programmes organised on the occasion of Begum Rokeya Day 2025.