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President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for ensuring the safety of girls, preventing child marriage and establishing their equal rights and dignity in society.
“Girls are not a burden; they are the beginning of endless possibilities,” he said while addressing a programme as the chief guest marking International and National Day of the Girl Child 2026 at Bangladesh Shishu Academy on Monday (October 12).
The event was broadcast live on Bangladesh Television (BTV) and BTV News.
The president announced a zero-tolerance policy towards violence and abuse against women and girls, urging families, society and the state to work together to help girls develop their talents and fulfil their aspirations.
He stressed that education for girls was not an act of charity but a fundamental right, while ensuring their safety was a solemn responsibility.
At the outset of his speech, Mirza Fakhrul described the birth of a girl as the beginning of a new dream, a promise of future possibilities and the arrival of a future proud citizen.
“A bird cannot fly with one wing, just as no society or nation can reach the heights of development by leaving women and girls behind,” he said.
Referring to this year’s theme, “No More Child Marriage, Girls Will Conquer the World”, the president said child marriage cut short childhood and wasted potential.
He pledged strict enforcement of the zero-tolerance policy against violence, rape and sexual harassment involving women and children, promising firm action against perpetrators.
He also called for greater awareness of the national helplines 109, 1098 and 999 to ensure prompt assistance in emergencies.
Urging parents not to consider girls a burden, the president encouraged them to invest in their education and well-being. He said girls should be given the same opportunities as boys to become self-reliant.
He also called for a change in social attitudes towards girls, drawing on the moral teachings of the Holy Quran and other religions.
Addressing girls directly, the president urged them to be courageous, remain aware of their rights, pursue education and develop their skills.
He advised those facing injustice or abuse not to remain silent but to seek help from trusted parents, teachers or the relevant helplines.
Ministers and state ministers from the ministries of Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare, relevant secretaries, and senior officials from national and international organisations attended the programme.
