PM lauded for introducing free edn for girls

By Unb, Dhaka
18 July 2006, 18:00 PM
UN Under Secretary General Thoraya Ahmed Obaid said that free education and stipend for girls up to 12th class, introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, will improve socio-economic status of women in the country and accelerate economic development.

It will also contribute towards redefining the gender relationship in society, observed Thoraya Obaid, also the Executive Director of UNFPA. She recently visited Bangladesh.

She made the comments in a letter to the PM, saying Bangladesh, despite its many challenges, has recorded enormous success in the field of gender equality and fertility decline.

"Excellency, your presence at the Imam Conference reflects your firm commitment to address national issues in a culturally sensitive manner. We deeply appreciate the finalisation of the country's Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) last year, which shows the firm commitment of your government towards the attainment of the ICPD agenda and realisation of the Millennium Development Goals," Mrs Thoraya observed in her letter to the PM.

She said the successful implementation of the PRS will certainly help Bangladesh in improving the quality of life of its people.

The UN Under Secretary General also thanked the Prime Minister for giving her time during her visit in Bangladesh last May.