Children, teenagers should develop habit of reading books: Zubaida
She expressed hope that these values will be reflected in every village and city of Bangladesh.
Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF) Vice President and renowned cardiologist Dr Zubaida Rahman today (3 September) stressed the need for developing the habit of reading books among children and teenagers.
"Let the habit of reading books develop among children and teenagers. Then values, justice, honesty, dedication and perseverance will become firmly established in them," she said.
Zubaida made the remarks while inaugurating a nine-day Zia Smriti Book Fair 2026 on the Bangla Academy premises as the chief guest in the afternoon. The book fair was organised, marking the 48th founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
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She expressed hope that these values will be reflected in every village and city of Bangladesh.
"Tolerance, empathy and the tendency to respect others will also increase. Today's children and teenagers will establish themselves in society as patient human beings," Zubaida said.
"I am truly happy to be present at this book fair marking the 48th founding anniversary of BNP. InshaAllah, may this library spread across all 90,049 villages of Bangladesh," she said.
The ZRF vice president said books on the lives of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and uncompromising leader Begum Khaleda Zia portray their struggles, sacrifices, endurance, patience, courage and patriotism.
"Their ideals and guidance are a source of inspiration for our journey," she said.
Zubaida thanked the organisers and wished the book fair every success before formally declaring it open.
She also recited excerpts from her poem "Tumi Nirbhik" (You Are Fearless), written in memory of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
The poem includes the lines: "You are fearless, you are a symbol of democracy. You are the vigilant guardian of people's rights, an extraordinarily courageous figure. You are a leader, you are hardworking. Your days passed tirelessly thinking of everyone. You are rebellious, you rise in the light of hope. You are victorious, you are immortal, you are freedom."
National Professor Dr Mahbub Ullah, an economist, educationist and researcher, attended the programme as the chief discussant.
The event was chaired by Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam, president of the Zia Smriti Pathagar Central Committee.
BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Farhad Halim Doner, Jatiya Press Club President and ZRF Executive Director Hasan Hafiz, and recitation artiste Rezaul Hossain Tito were present as special guests.
