Mahfuza Khanam, social worker, educationist, freedom fighter, and the only woman ever elected vice president of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU), passed away on Tuesday morning while swimming at the Officers’ Club in Dhaka. Physicians suspect she suffered a heart attack.
Born on April 14, 1946, in Kolkata, Mahfuza Khanam earned her bachelor’s degree in Physics from Dhaka University in 1966, followed by a master’s in 1967. As a student, she made history in 1966–67 when she was elected DUCSU vice president as a candidate of the East Pakistan Chatra Union, a milestone unmatched to this day.
Over her distinguished career, she served as Director General of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education, President of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh, President of Peshajibi Nari Samaj (Professional Women Society), and member of the Dhaka University Senate. She taught at various government colleges and worked tirelessly for women’s rights, education, and social justice.
In recognition of her lifelong contributions, Mahfuza Khanam was awarded the Begum Rokeya Padak in 2012 and the Ekushey Padak, the nation’s second-highest civilian honor, in 2021. Her passing marks the end of a defining chapter in women’s leadership in student politics and education in Bangladesh, but her legacy of courage, advocacy, and commitment to women’s empowerment will continue to inspire generations.
Bangladesh Feminist Archives 