EWU hosts seminar celebrating UNESCO recognition of Sultana’s Dream
The Department of Sociology at East West University (EWU) brought together a vibrant gathering on 10 August 2025 to celebrate a literary milestone: the inclusion of Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain's feminist classic Sultana's Dream in UNESCO's Memory of the World Regional Register.
The event, hosted in the lively atmosphere of the Nousher Ali Lecture Gallery, invited attendees to reflect on the enduring relevance of the 1905 novella, which envisions a visionary "Ladyland" led by women and characterized by equality, peace, and progress.
The seminar was chaired by Professor Dr Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of EWU's Board of Trustees. As a special guest, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Shams Rahman offered his insights. Serving as the chief guest, Mofidul Hoque—Founder Trustee of the Bangladesh Liberation War Museum—addressed the gathering.
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Throughout the seminar, speakers inspired the audience by celebrating Rokeya's groundbreaking work for women's rights and education. Yet, they challenged everyone present to reflect on the ongoing struggles—child marriage, limited property rights, and low political participation—even 120 years later. Speakers called for a renewed commitment to empowering young women through education, especially in science and technology, urging listeners to envision themselves as helping shape a future rich in female leaders.
Professor Dr Fouzia Mannan, Chairperson of the Department of Sociology, delivered a keynote on the historical and contemporary significance of Sultana's Dream. The seminar concluded with a call to continue drawing inspiration from Rokeya's vision to advance gender equality and women's empowerment in today's world.
