Zubaida Rahman Sparks Scientific Spirit at ZRF Science Fair

Dr. Zubaida Rahman, Vice President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF), encouraged the country’s young generation and budding scientists at the awards ceremony of the “Virtual Science Fair 2024” held on Friday (May 23) at the foundation’s headquarters.

Speaking as the chief guest, Dr. Rahman—also the spouse of BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman—commended the young participants for their creative scientific projects. Her appearance marked her first public address at an official program since returning to the country.

Addressing the children and adolescent participants, Dr. Rahman said, “Every competitor deserves heartfelt congratulations for their innovative science projects.”

She returned to Bangladesh on May 6 after 17 years, accompanied by her mother-in-law and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Dr. Rahman had left the country on September 11, 2008, with her husband Tarique Rahman. Since then, she had been living in London with her husband and their only daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman.

After handing over prizes to the winners of the science fair, Dr. Rahman held a meeting with ZRF’s Board of Directors and advisory members. The program also featured a video documentary highlighting the foundation’s activities since its inception.

Dr. Rahman stated, “The intelligence, perseverance, and self-reliance of these young scientists are truly remarkable and inspiring. I hope each of you finds success in every aspect of life and brings pride to the nation on the global stage. Seeing your passion for science gives me hope that you will invent and contribute to humanity through science. InshAllah, we will all support you.”

She further added, “Whenever you have any question related to the world of science, you may approach the panel of judges. They have guided and inspired you. The pursuit of science is endless. There is so much to offer the world through it. I believe you can do it.”

The Virtual Science Fair has been organized for the past four years, aimed at inspiring scientific innovation and promoting science education among children and adolescents. This year, 17 winners received awards, including laptops and certificates.

Alongside the awards presentation, Dr. Rahman also held discussions with ZRF's board members and advisors at the foundation’s office.

ZRF was founded on October 18, 1999, with the slogan: “An initiative, a little effort – will bring prosperity, and ensure national self-reliance,” in memory of BNP’s founder and martyred President Ziaur Rahman.

The event was chaired virtually by ZRF’s Executive Director, Professor Dr. Farhad Halim Donar. The welcome speech was delivered by Acting Executive Director Professor Dr. Morshed Hasan Khan, and the program was moderated by Director (Programs), Dr. Shah Muhammad Aman Ullah.

In his welcome remarks, Professor Morshed Hasan Khan stated, “Those young scientists who participated and won in the virtual science fair are indeed the future of Bangladesh. Our heartfelt prayers and best wishes are with them.” Following his remarks, Dr. Zubaida Rahman was greeted with a crest and a bouquet at the foundation office.