Rokeya's spirit and today's women's education/ রোকেয়ার চেতনা ও আজকের নারীশিক্ষা

Abstract

Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain championed women’s education not merely as a means of personal empowerment but as a crucial factor in the progress of society as a whole. Her ideas emphasized:

1. Education as Liberation – Rokeya believed that ignorance was the main barrier to women’s progress. Without education, women remained subjugated, which in turn weakened society. Reapplying her thoughts means ensuring access to quality education for all women, especially in marginalized communities.

2. Moral and Social Upliftment – She viewed education as a tool for instilling ethics, social awareness, and a sense of responsibility. In today’s world, where moral values often take a backseat, her vision can inspire an education system that nurtures not just academic knowledge but also social consciousness.

3. Economic and Political Participation – Rokeya saw women’s education as the key to their economic independence and active role in decision-making. By reintroducing her ideals, we can encourage more women to take leadership positions, reducing gender disparity in governance and industry.

4. Cultural Reform and Progressive Thought – Rokeya criticized rigid traditions that kept women confined. Her forward-thinking approach to reforming social norms through education is still needed to challenge regressive ideologies and promote gender equality.

Reapplying her educational philosophy today means designing curricula that encourage critical thinking, gender sensitivity, and practical skills for women. It also requires policy changes to ensure education is accessible and inclusive. Only by following her vision can we prevent further social decay and move toward a more just and progressive society.