Late Professor Monowara Islam (Monu), recipient of the ‘Ekushe Padak’
Late Professor Monowara Islam (Monu): A Life of Service and Dedication
Professor Monowara Islam, affectionately known as Monu, a revered figure in the academic and literary circles of Bangladesh, was born in 1936 in Khulna, a city in the Bengal Presidency of British India, now Bangladesh. Her father, Late Mirza Ibrahim Hossain, served as the Deputy Magistrate of the British government, instilling in her a deep sense of duty and service from an early age.
Professor Monowara Islam Monu’s educational journey began in Madaripur, where she completed her matriculation. She then pursued her Intermediate studies from Eden Mohila College in 1952, followed by a Bachelor of Arts from the same institution. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Dhaka University, where she earned her post-graduation degree.
Professor Monowara Islam Monu began her career in 1957 as the head teacher of Munshiganj Girls’ High School. She was passionate and devoted to education, which led to her transfer to Azimpur Girls’ High School. There, she taught many distinguished students, such as the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, and Professor Khaleda Ekram. Professor Monowara Islam Monu also taught at Bangladesh Home Economics College, Dhaka. She loved Ikebana and judged Ikebana competitions.
Professor Monowara Islam Monu was not only a remarkable teacher, but also a leader and an activist. As the president of the Bangladesh Federation of University Women, she promoted women’s education and empowerment. She also played a vital role in the Bengali language movement, advocating for the recognition and preservation of her mother tongue. The government of Bangladesh honored her with the Ekushey Padak, the second-highest civilian award in the country, in 2019. She received this prestigious award from her former student, who was the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
Professor Monowara Islam Monu’s late husband, Qazi Nurul Islam, held the position of joint secretary and was among the survivors of the protest march on February 21, 1952. Born in 1933, he engaged in political science studies at Dhaka University and passed away on March 24, 1997. The couple was graced with three children: two sons and one daughter. The eldest son, Qazi M Arif Shovon, also known as Babu, is the Principal Architect and President at Envision Architects + Planners. He is wed to Ishrat Islam Emily, a professor at BUET. Their second son, Qazi Asif Shanto, has made his mark as a successful businessman and is married to Yasmin A Khanam Jinia, a teacher at Sunnydale School. Sarah Tasneem Liya holds a distinguished position as a Professor at Eastern Connecticut State University in the USA and is wed to Dr. Mehdi Anwar, a full professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Connecticut.
Professor Monowara Islam Monu passed away on June 6, 2022, leaving behind a rich legacy. Her life and work continue to inspire countless individuals in Bangladesh and beyond. Her story stands as a testament to the power of education and the impact that one dedicated individual can have on their community and country. She will always be remembered as a professor, litterateur, language movement activist, and recipient of the ‘Ekushe Padak’. Her memory endures in the hearts of her students, colleagues, and all those whose lives she touched.
A list of three children, arranged from oldest to youngest:
(1) Sarah Tasneem Liya; (2) Qazi M Arif Shovon, also known as Babu; (3) Qazi Asif Shanto;
3rd Generation; 4th Generation; Children:
- Sarah Tasneem Liya – 2 sons: (a) Atif and (b) Rayeed; reside in the USA.
- Qazi M Arif Shovon, also known as Babu – 2 sons: (a) Shureed Deepro Qazi and (b) Srijeet Qazi; reside in the USA.
- Qazi Asif Shanto – 2 daughters: (a) Shaneen and (b) Samreen.
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