Tourism minister condoles death of Prof Dilara Hafiz
In a condolence message, the minister described her as a distinguished academic and a dedicated contributor to social welfare.
ATT Correspondent 
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita expressed deep sorrow at the death of eminent educationist Professor Begum Dilara Hafiz, who passed away in Singapore on Saturday at the age of 78.
Professor Dilara Hafiz, wife of Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, breathed her last at Singapore General Hospital at 1:29 pm local time while undergoing treatment.
In a condolence message, the minister described her as a distinguished academic and a dedicated contributor to social welfare. She said Professor Hafiz’s lifelong commitment to education, deep passion for teaching and tireless efforts for students would remain an enduring example in the country’s academic sphere.
“The nation has lost a valuable asset with the passing of such a wise, caring and responsible individual,” the minister said, adding that her contributions to expanding education and promoting human values would be remembered with respect.
The minister prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. She also prayed that Almighty Allah grants her Jannatul Ferdous and gives strength to the family to bear the irreparable loss.
The condolence message was signed by Tariqul Islam, Information and Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism.
Distinguished career
A respected figure in Bangladesh’s education sector, Professor Dilara Hafiz served as principal of Eden Mohila College and Suhrawardy College during her career. She later retired as Director General of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education under the Ministry of Education.
Born on 2 January 1949 in Sunamganj, she was the daughter of Mohammad Abul Hossain Chowdhury and Karimunnesa Khatun Chowdhury. She completed her BA (Honours) in History from the University of Dhaka in 1968 and obtained her master’s degree the following year.
Funeral rites
She is survived by her husband, son, daughter, grandchildren and numerous admirers.
According to family sources, her body will be brought back to Bangladesh on Sunday evening.
