Begum Rokeya. Photo: CollectedNETRAKONA, Jan 30, 2026 (BSS) - Begum Rokeya, a pioneer of the women's empowerment movement in greater Mymensingh and a distinguished social worker, passed away at the age of 78. Begum Rokeya was the founder and former Executive Director of the non-governmental organization 'Swabalambi Unnayan Samiti' (SUS). Born on May 17, 1948, in Kaurat village under Kendua Upazila, Begum Rokeya overcame numerous challenges in her personal life to earn both a BA and a BEd degree. In 1985, she left her teaching profession to establish 'Swabalambi Unnayan Samiti' with like-minded individuals.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 30, 2026 14:43 UTC