Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged the country's womenfolk to keep confidence in their inherent talent and power and work together with their male counterpart to build a developed nation, reports BSS.
"We want every man and women to work with dedication for building a developed nation.....women should always do the work for flourishing their inherent talent and power keeping that quality in their mind," she said.
The Prime Minister said this while distributing Rokeya Padak-2017 at a function at Osmani Memorial Auditorium here.
"Women should become independent in every sphere of life. They have to move forward by their own efforts, not being dependent on others," the Prime Minister said, adding 'women must beat every barrier on their own to go ahead."
Urging every woman to stand beside the downtrodden people, the Prime Minister said 'It's our duty to stand by the poor and physically challenged people to build up their confidence and assist them to come out of the disgraceful situation.
"We will be able to change the society if we work together," She also said.
State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Meher Afroze Chumki presided over the function held under the auspices of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs marking the 'Rokeya Dibash'.
Secretary of the ministry Nasima Begum delivered the welcome address. On behalf of the recipients Mazeda Showkat Ali spoke at the function.
This year, five prominent women of the country received the Begum Rokeya Award for their outstanding role in empowering womenfolk. They are - Mazeda Showkat Ali, Mahfuza Khatun Baby Moudud (posthumously), Suriya Rahman, Shova Rani Tripura and Masuda Faroque Ratna.
Last year the Prime Minister announced giving Rokeya Padak to more women from this year instead of two saying many women, who are silently working in rural areas with very limited facilities for women's awakening and development, would be given the award. So far, 46 women were adorned with the prestigious Begum Rokeya Award that was introduced in 1995.
The Premier said her government is trying to impart education and necessary training to the country's women to make them independent financially for their social empowerment.
"Women have to stand on their own feet to attain their emancipation. So the government has been giving emphasis on providing multiple supports to help them attain economic freedom so that they can contribute to their family and country," she added.