Free postgraduate education for girls to be introduced, says Shama Obaid

The government will introduce free postgraduate education for girls as part of efforts to promote women’s empowerment, equality and prosperity, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid said on Sunday.

She made the announcement at a discussion organised by the National Press Club to mark International Women’s Day, according to a press release issued by the club.

Shama Obaid said the BNP government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, was committed to advancing women’s empowerment and ensuring greater equality and prosperity.

She said the government would also take steps to ensure speedy trials in cases involving online harassment, gender-based violence, rape, abuse, acid attacks, and the trafficking of women and children.

National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz extended greetings on the occasion of International Women’s Day and said he hoped women would continue to move forward despite various obstacles.

He also stressed the importance of greater participation by women in politics.

At the event, senior journalist Momtaz Bilkis Banu was also honoured with a commemorative award by the National Press Club in recognition of her contribution to women’s journalism.