A 17-year-old SSC examinee, Tahmina Akter, from Zianagar upazila in Pirojpur has set a remarkable example of courage by preventing her own child marriage. In recognition of her bravery and awareness, she has been honored by the district administration. According to reports, last Friday, Tahmina's financially struggling family arranged her marriage with an expatriate despite her being underage. Tahmina is a 2026 SSC candidate from Setara Smriti Government Girls' School and the youngest of five children of Alam Hawladar and Anowara Begum. Refusing the marriage, she courageously left home and sought shelter at Zianagar Police Station. With the help of police and under the supervision of Upazila Nirbahi Officer Hasan Md. Hafizur Rahman, the child marriage was successfully stopped.
On Wednesday, at a function, held at the Pirojpur Deputy Commissioner's office, District Commissioner Abu Sayeed honoured Tahmina with a certificate, crest, and cash award. Additional District Magistrate Tanzila Kabir Trapa and Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs Monika Akter, among others, were present at the event. Tahmina's mother was also in attendance. The District Commissioner stated that the government is committed to women's education and empowerment. He described Tahmina's courageous step as exemplary and said it would inspire other girls to speak out against child marriage.
He also urged parents to refrain from decisions that could harm their children's future and called on society to play an active role in preventing child marriage.
Tahmina's story highlights that awareness, education, and self-confidence can empower even a young girl to protect her rights. Child marriage is not just a family issue but a serious social problem that harms education, health, and future prospects. Collective efforts from families, society, and administration are essential to combat it.
