Staff Reporter :
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday paid tribute to three teachers of Milestone School and College – Maherin Chowdhury, Masuka Begum, and Mahfuza Khatun-who lost their lives in a recent tragic plane crash, describing them as extraordinary examples of humanity and bravery.
The families of the three teachers met with Professor Yunus at the state guest house Jamuna in Dhaka. Present were Maherin Chowdhury’s husband Monsur Helal, their two sons, siblings and close relatives; Masuka Begum’s sister and brother-in-law; and Mahfuza Khatun’s daughter, sister, nephew, and other relatives.
“Though some days have passed, this tragedy remains raw in everyone’s heart,” the Chief Adviser said. “We can only express our condolences; the grief is not yours alone. As a nation, we share it with you.”
During the meeting, family members recalled the heroic actions of the teachers. Monsur Helal described how Maherin Chowdhury, despite severe burns, prioritised saving the students over her own safety. “She told me, ‘They are also my children. How could I leave them behind?'” he recalled. “People from all over the world prayed for her. She was dedicated to everyone.”
Mahfuza Khatun’s daughter, Ayesha Siddika, shared her anguish, saying: “Each day without my mother feels like a dream. I have no father, and now my mother is gone too. I feel like an orphan.”
Masuka Begum’s brother-in-law, Khalilur Rahman, highlighted her selflessness: “She always cared for her family and treated our children as her own. Her life revolved around us and her school.”
Professor Yunus lauded the teachers’ bravery, saying, “They risked their lives to save others and demonstrated the true spirit of humanity. Their sacrifice has stirred everyone’s heart and set an example for the nation. We must preserve their memory, and we will do whatever is necessary to honour them.”
Also present at the meeting were senior advisers from various ministries, including Environment, Health, Fisheries and Livestock, Women and Children Affairs, Education, Housing and Public Works, as well as the Chief Coordinator of SDG Affairs.
