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Published on March 8, 2018
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has urged parents on International Women’s Day to guide their daughters into self-reliance.
Enabling girls for work through education will bring the best results to families and society, Hasina said at a programme at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre on Thursday.
“We want to ensure that women make their marks in every sector and Bangladesh has come a long way in doing so,” Hasina said. “I am sure they are doing a splendid job. All it takes is a little bit of courage.”
The premier asserted that parents will not pressure girls into marriage if they see girls growing independent and contributing to family income.
Education will be provided to women in every division through vocational colleges, she noted.
“Government training centres will be open for both men and women in every upazila. Already 70 such centres are operating in the country,” she said. “Hostels for working women will be set up in every district and ultimately in every upazila.”
“Prime Minister's Education Assistance Trust provides scholarships for higher education. Girls account for 75 percent of recipients,” she said.
Highlighting microcredit available for women across the country, Hasina said: “We are creating opportunities for them to build businesses.”
Hasina stressed setting up day-care centres at every institution. “There are 74 day-care centres across the country. A mother can relax and work when she is aware that her child is safe.”
Driving and computer learning are among many forms of training available for women, Hasina said adding that the trainees get allowances as well.
A total of 39 polytechnic institutes have been set up since the current government took office; three of them are specially dedicated to women. There are 66 technical schools and colleges open for all.
The parliament now has 50 seats reserved for women instead of 30 while 22 are directly elected. Positions like speaker, ruling party chief, opposition leader all are occupied by women, said a smiling Hasina.
The Awami League president highlighted different acts existing for prevention of abuse on women. Two more acts: one against dowry and another for setting up day care centres, are under process, she said.
The premier recalled her mother Fazilatunnesa Mujib and Begum Rokeya at the beginning of her speech.
State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Meher Afroze Chumki moderated the event.
Photo: Yeasin Kabir Joy
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