Zubaida Rahman, wife of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and vice-president of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF), on Sunday expressed hope that the foundation would emerge as a global example of humanitarian service through its welfare activities, as it marked 27 years of standing by people across Bangladesh.
"Founded on the ideals of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, blessed by the guidance of uncompromising leader Begum Khaleda Zia, and established through the initiative and inspiration of Tarique Rahman, the Ziaur Rahman Foundation is a remarkable example of humanity in Bangladesh," she said.
Speaking as a special guest at a programme marking the foundation's 27th anniversary, cardiac specialist Zubaida congratulated its members, saying the organisation had grown from a small sapling of humanitarian service over the past 27 years and is now on its way to becoming a mighty tree.
The programme was held at the Shaheed Abu Sayeed International Convention Centre in the capital, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman attending as chief guest.
"People are for people. With the resolve that a little effort and a single initiative can make a difference, the Ziaur Rahman Foundation is moving forward," Zubaida said, adding that the foundation had always stood by people across Bangladesh and will continue to do so.
Zubaida expressed hope that the foundation would become a shining example of humanitarian service worldwide through its various welfare activities.
Earlier, cheques and certificates were distributed among the winners of the foundation's Idea Fest competition, with the team from Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University emerging as champion.
A souvenir marking the anniversary was also unveiled.
Moderated by Professor Dr Sarkar Mahbub Ahmed Shamim, member-secretary of the foundation's 27th anniversary celebration committee, it was also addressed by Dr Morshed Hasan Khan, the foundation's director and convener of the committee.
The programme began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a video documentary highlighting the foundation's humanitarian activities.
BNP Acting Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, BNP Standing Committee member and lawmaker Selima Rahman, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Social Welfare Minister Prof. Dr. Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain, State Minister for Land Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin and ZRF Executive Director Professor Dr Farhad Halim Donar, among others, attended the event.
The Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF) began its journey as a non-profit voluntary organisation on October 18, 1999. Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman established the foundation in memory of his father, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
Guided by the slogan, "A single initiative and a little effort can bring prosperity and lead the country towards self-reliance," the foundation works to reach poor and disadvantaged people.
Through its humanitarian activities, it has earned recognition and reputation across the country.