United News of Bangladesh

Dr Zubaida Rahman, Vice-Chairman of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF), on Friday expressed the hope that Bangladeshi students would bring pride to the nation through their future innovations in science. “We are deeply encouraged by your passion for science. We hope that in the future you will contribute to scientific innovations not just for Bangladesh, but for the betterment of humanity as a whole,” she said at the award-giving ceremony of the ‘Virtual Science Fair 2025’, held at the ZRF office in the capital’s Gulshan area. Zubaida, also the wife of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, wished all participants of the fair success in every aspect of their lives, contributing to Bangladesh’s global image. After hearing from the competitors, she said, “I’ve been listening to your presentations for some time… truly outstanding… absolutely outstanding. Your intellect, dedication and most importantly, your confidence have deeply impressed us." She promised the full support of the ZRF to students keen to explore the field of science and pursue innovation. Zubaida advised that students should not hesitate to approach judges with any scientific questions they may have, as they are always ready to inspire and guide.  “At any time, you can approach them with your queries," she added. “There is no end to scientific research,” Zubaida said. BNP urges Dr Yunus to announce election  schedule to avoid unrest  “But there is a lot to give to the world through scientific research, and I believe you can do it," she said. Praising the initiatives of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation, she described it as an extraordinary example of social service. “For this, I sincerely congratulate all the members of the foundation for standing by the people of Bangladesh and, in some cases, abroad for almost 26 years," she said. Zubaida has been residing in London with her husband Tarique Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman since September 2008. She returned to Bangladesh on May 6 with her mother-in-law, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, ending a 17-year stay in London. Although she has attended some family events since her return, this marked her first participation in an organisational programme. The event began with the screening of a documentary on the foundation’s activities. Dr Zubaida Rahman later presented prizes to the winners of the science fair. Established on October 18, 1999 in memory of the late President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, the ZRF is a non-profit voluntary organisation with Tarique Rahman as chairman. Initially formed with doctors, agriculturists, engineers, and teachers, the foundation has since expanded to include lawyers and journalists. In November last year, a 23-member board of directors was formed with Zubaida Rahman as Vice-Chairman.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday alleged that the health sector has co collapsed amid coronavirus pandemic due to ‘widespread corruption and irregularities, putting the entire nation in danger. "On one hand, they’re lying about corona tests and indulging in corruption and irregularities over treatment on the other, leaving the country in jeopardy,” he said. He came up with the allegation while inaugurating an app developed by Ziaur Rahman Foundation to provide healthcare services to coronavirus-infected patients. Also read: Intensify efforts to procure vaccines for alternative sources: BNP The BNP leader said, “We saw a few days ago that two hospitals have disappeared. The health sector has collapsed due to widespread corruption in the health ministry during the coronavirus pandemic.” Fakhrul said the government has announced stimulus packages to ensure people’s livelihoods and tackle the Covid fallouts. “But they’re resorting to corruption there as well. No arrangement has been made for easing the public sufferings.” Also read: Govt doing business in Covid’s name: BNP He said the government is hardly concerned about ensuring people’s livelihoods and security of their lives since it has no accountability.  “The government has completely become isolated from people. The entire nation has been suffering due to the irresponsibility of the current regime.” The BNP leader alleged that the coronavirus has spread in the country due to the government’s extreme incompetence and ignorance since the beginning of the pandemic. "Unfortunately, no effective step has so far been taken by the government to ensure proper treatment of the Covid patients and develop the treatment system.” Also read: Engaging single organisation in buying vaccines a ‘suicidal’ move: BNP He said it is not possible to deal with a serious crisis like the corona pandemic without a democratic government. “We need to establish a democratic governing system and a democratic government and parliament to ensure accountability and state responsibility towards people. Stating that their party chairperson Khaleda Zia has been receiving treatment at a city hospital for her serious illness, Fakhrul urged all to pray for her speedy recovery.