Fyzennessa deserves Rokeya Padak

The government should award late Noorunnahar Fyzennessa, professor of Dhaka University, with Begum Rokeya Padak for her pioneering role in disseminating the ideals of Rokeya to establish women's rights, speakers told a memorial meeting yesterday.  
"Throughout her life, Fyzennessa upheld and spread Rokeya's philosophy," said Prof Sanjida Khatun, former director of the Institute of Education and Research, DU where she taught.
The memorial meeting was organised at the capital's Chhayanaut, marking her 10th death anniversary.
The young generation should follow in the footsteps of Fyzennessa to empower themselves, observed Ayesha Khanam, president of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad.
Former caretaker government adviser Rasheda K Chowdhury said, "I always found in Fyzennessa an inspiring person who wanted to work for women's rights without looking for fame."
Dr Fyzennessa was the first female member of DU senate. She founded the child development centre Chhayanir to ensure the development of children of DU teachers and staff.
Her eldest daughter Sadya Afreen Mallick said, "My mother always wanted to keep us involved with social activities."
A documentary on the life and works of the academic was screened, and songs were performed on the occasion.