Speaking at the Holy Family Red Crescent Hospital and College in Dhaka, Dr Zubaida Rahman, wife of the Prime Minister and Vice President of the Ziaur Rahman Foundation, called on the next generation of doctors to blend medical expertise with humanitarian values and patriotism. Addressing the "Excellence in Education Award 2026" ceremony she emphasized the urgent need for medical professionals to step up and ensure rural healthcare access.
Highlighting stark inequalities in the healthcare system, Dr Rahman noted that while 78% of Bangladesh's population resides in villages, up to 75% of doctors practice in urban centers. Furthermore, the country has only 0.83 doctors per 1,000 people, forcing a single physician to serve up to 1,800 patients. Dr Rahman pointed out that the critical shortage of doctors and nurses—which is currently below World Health Organization standards—makes medical expenses a leading cause of poverty in the country.
She urged students who leave to pursue higher education and training abroad to return home and support the nation during times of crisis. “Along with talent, a doctor must have a humane heart to truly achieve fulfilment in life by serving the sick,” she stated to the award-winning students. Ultimately, Dr Rahman envisioned a robust, accessible healthcare system where no villager, pregnant mother, or newborn loses their life to preventable causes or a lack of medical treatment.
