Rokia Afzal Rahman, former advisor to the caretaker government and also an advisor to the foundation, formally inaugurated the hostel, Arunima, at Shyamoli yesterday.

She appreciated the initiative of the foundation and called for launching such projects for women across the country.

Apart from accommodation and food, the 25-bed hostel offers various facilities to the boarders such as medical, group insurance, library, television, computer, games, gardening, gymnasium and travelling facilities.

In addition, the boarders will be provided training in market-oriented skills so they can establish themselves as successful entrepreneurs, said Selina Akther, general secretary of the foundation.

She hoped that the project will help women overcome their problems in the society and play a role in development activities.

She also said the foundation has a plan to raise the number of beds in the hostel to 150. The monthly rent ranges between Tk 3000 and Tk 5000, which includes both food and living costs.

Gul Nahar Zaman, executive member of the foundation, said they also have a plan to set up a hostel for old women in future.

Monowara Islam, chairperson, Roushanara Rahman, advisor, and Gul Nahar Zaman, executive member of the foundation, also spoke at the inaugural function.

Four women have already been staying in the hostel since last December.