Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged women to actively participate in nation-building efforts, emphasizing the importance of their equal contribution alongside men.

Addressing a discussion and Joyeeta Award ceremony held in Dhaka to commemorate International Women's Day 2024, the premier highlighted the pivotal role of women in societal progress.

She stressed the need for women, who represent half of society, to step forward, stating that societal development is unattainable without their active involvement.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed optimism on International Women's Day, affirming her belief that Bangladeshi women would always be integral to the country's advancement.

Reflecting on the legacy of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina underscored his commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of women. She highlighted her party's dedication to gender equality, evident in its charter and election manifesto.

Emphasizing the government's efforts to create opportunities for women, the prime minister encouraged their active participation, acknowledging their substantial contributions to both the workforce and household responsibilities.

She cited labor statistics indicating a 43% participation rate among women and emphasized the additional, often unaccounted for, work they undertake at home.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina presented the "Best Joyeeta Award-2023" to five women achievers across various fields, recognizing their exceptional accomplishments despite facing numerous challenges.

The awardees included Anar Koli for economics from Mymensingh, Kalyani Minji for education and employment from Rajshahi, Komoli Robi Dash for successful motherhood from Moulvibazar, Jahanara Begum for repression prevention from Barguna, and Pakhi Dutta Hijra for social development from Khulna.

State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Simeen Hussain chaired the event, while Women and Children Affairs Secretary Nazma Mobarek delivered the welcome address.

Kalyani Minji, speaking on behalf of the Joyeeta awardees, expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon them.

"Joyeeta," symbolizing victory over adversities, celebrates the resilience and determination of women who overcome obstacles to achieve success.

The government annually confers the Joyeeta Award to women excelling in five categories: economic achievement, education and employment, successful motherhood, overcoming adversity, and contributions to social development.