Three eminent figures honoured at 'Gunijon Shongbordhona'

Eminent entrepreneur Syed Manzur Elahi, former Jahangirnagar University vice-chancellor Prof Amirul Islam Chowdhury, and renowned scientist Prof Firdausi Qadri were honoured at the eighth edition of the "Gunijan Shongordhona" for their outstanding contributions to the country's economy, education, research, and public life.

The award ceremony, jointly organised by Bonik Barta and the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), was held this evening (23 December) at a five-star hotel in the capital. Syed Manzur Elahi received the honour posthumously, with his son Syed Nasim Manzur accepting the award on his behalf. Prof Amirul Islam Chowdhury and Prof Firdausi Qadri received the recognition in person.

Speaking at the event, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said Bangladesh urgently needs integrity, professionalism, and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that individuals who embody these qualities must be recognised and celebrated. He described Prof Chowdhury as a humble and deeply knowledgeable policymaker, Prof Qadri as an exceptionally dedicated scientist, and Syed Manzur Elahi as a firm yet understated manager, noting that all three were committed patriots who dreamed of a better Bangladesh.

BIDS Director General AK Enamul Haque delivered the welcome address, while the programme was moderated by Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud. Among others present were Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, CPD Distinguished Fellow Mustafizur Rahman, PPPRC Executive Chairman Hossain Zillur Rahman, ICC Bangladesh President Mahbubur Rahman, and several leading economists, researchers, and business leaders.

In his remarks, Hossain Zillur Rahman said contemporary Bangladesh needs three core values above all, decency, professionalism, and responsibility, adding that Prof Amirul Islam Chowdhury exemplified all three throughout his career. Prof Firdausi Qadri, known for her contributions to vaccine development and infectious disease research, said she considers herself an ordinary person who simply loves her work and her country. Prof Chowdhury expressed gratitude for the recognition, calling the occasion deeply meaningful.

Syed Nasim Manzur highlighted patriotism, moral integrity, and merit as the defining traits shared by the three awardees, saying their lives offer enduring lessons for the nation. United Finance and Prime Bank supported the event as organising partners.