Women leaders shared their own challenges and success story with students, teachers, representatives of women’s group, NGO leaders, human rights activists in a Story Telling program organized by Access toward Livelihood and Welfare Organisation ALWO a women headed and grassroots organisation in partnership with CSEF at the Rani Bhabani Girls College auditorium on Tuesday May 3,2011. Mrs. Rahima Khatun, Vice Principal, Rani Bhabani College was present as Chief Guest. Retired Principal and Freedom Fighter Prof. Nazrul Islam and Ms. Tasneem Athar Deputy Director CAMPE were present as special guests. The sharing was followed by awarding of crest to honor three women from the local community who have become successful role models in the society through their hard work.

The speakers appealed to all present to take position against child marriage and ensure girls’right to education. They reiterated the importance of education for empowerment. Prof Rahima Khatun also demanded an increase in the stipend program (a cash transfer initiative for girls) by the government, from 40% to at least 50% to encourage more girls to enroll in the graduate course.

Ms. Athar in her speech pointed out that education was important for self development and in included personality, confidence and knowledge.
 

Sheer grit and determination to get educated is what has empowered me…

I lost both my parents when I was a student of class VI . Within months my uncles married me off to someone who was also a student and dependant on his parents. My in laws did not want me to continue my studies and got me busy with domestic chores. After a couple of years my mother in law was diagnosed of cancer and I was under pressure to fulfill her last wishes – a grandson. I had no options but to comply. The day my son was born she passed away but so did my first born. I was barred from meeting anyone or step into the house. My husband was angrier than ever and beat me so badly that I became ill. However a kind doc who was brought in to take a look at me brought me back on my feet. This time I decided I was going to continue my studies and none can stop me. I went back to school and along with my domestic chores and rearing children I managed to graduate with flying colors. After a few years I was confronted with yet another challenge my husband died and I was left alone with two children to fend for myself. I went from door to door to seek help but no one came to my aid till one day I was advised by a well wisher to start organizing women’s group and getting them into various development work. Thus began my political affiliation. I became elected as the Upazilla party Vice Chair of BNP the current Opposition party by a majority vote. I am an active social worker and I understand the woes of women if they are not educated. I realize that sheer grit and determination to get educated is what helped me to overcome the challenges of life.
 

Rukhsana Akter Lipi
Vice Chair
Upazilla Parishad, Natore
 

Click here to see Pictures of the GAW 2011 Events in Bangladesh