Zubaida eyes safe childhood,brighter future for children

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s wife and Vice-President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation Dr Zubaida Rahman on Tuesday called for creating opportunities for every child to realise and showcase their potential while ensuring a safe childhood and a secure future.

“Every child has immense potential within them. They must be given the opportunity to express that talent. With renewed enthusiasm and new initiatives, In Sha Allah, you will succeed,” she said.
She was speaking at a discussion organised at Bangladesh Shishu Academy marking Children’s Rights Day 2026 and the academy’s 50th anniversary.

Zubaida said the academy, established 50 years ago by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, had worked tirelessly despite numerous challenges to help children develop their potential.

 “The Bangladesh Shishu Academy is an extraordinary institution where countless talents in painting, music, dance, recitation and literature have flourished,” she said. She said the academy would reach children in every corner of the country through modern technology under a new initiative marking its golden jubilee and continue to serve as a platform for nurturing their dreams.

Addressing the children, Zubaida said, “Dear little friends, breaking through all obstacles, you will blossom and embrace the rays of fulfilment of your hopes and aspirations.”

“Let every childhood be safe. Let the future of every child be secure. This is our wish,” she said.

She also recalled BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s contribution to establishing children’s rights, saying the nation would remember it forever. Khaleda Zia, as the country’s first woman prime minister, expanded compulsory and free primary education and free education opportunities for girls, she said.


Women and Children Affairs Minister Prof Dr AZM Zahid Hossain chaired the discussion.

Earlier, 150 children welcomed Tarique Rahman and Zubaida as they arrived at the academy. The programme began with the national anthem.

After the discussion, the prime minister and his wife enjoyed a cultural programme performed by children and visited an exhibition of children’s drawings and a photo gallery.�"BSS