DHAKA : BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Thursday underscored the need for bringing street children into the formal education system.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a programme organised by the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF) at the T&T College ground in Mohakhali, marking the birthday of its Vice President and noted cardiologist Dr Zubaida Rahman.

The event included Holy Quran recitation, doa mahfil and free medical check-up for street children.

Moyeen Khan said education is essential for any nation to stand tall in the world, and excellence in knowledge and science is what transforms a country into a global power.

Emphasising the importance of education for street children, he said, “Bringing such children under the formal education system will be the greatest achievement.”

The BNP leader said Zubaida Rahman wants to promote the same ideals of education among people, urging all to move forward inspired by her life.

Addressing children and adolescents present at the programme, he said Zubaida Rahman’s ideals should be taken as a source of inspiration. “Her goal is the development of underprivileged people and children of the country, and the programme was organised following that philosophy.”

Moyeen Khan said Zubaida Rahman is not only a renowned physician but also an outstanding student. “She proved her excellence by earning a top degree from the prestigious Imperial College London in the United Kingdom, and instead of limiting her success to personal achievement, she dedicated herself to human welfare.”

He said Zubaida Rahman’s goal is not publicity but public welfare. “This humanitarian ideal should be carried forward.”

The BNP leader urged all to take a pledge on her birthday to build Bangladesh as a dignified nation in the world through service, education and welfare.

Born on June 18, 1972 in Sylhet, Zubaida Rahman is the daughter of former Bangladesh Navy chief Rear Admiral Mahbub Ali Khan, who served as the country’s naval chief from 1979 to 1984 and later held ministerial responsibilities.

Zubaida Rahman completed her MBBS degree from Dhaka Medical College and joined government service after securing first place in the BCS Health Cadre examination in 1995.

She married Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in 1993.

Later, she pursued higher studies at the prestigious Imperial College London, where she earned an MSc degree in Medicine with record marks and a gold medal. She is currently engaged in advanced research in pre-cardiology.