Thursday, 20th August 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 12th August 2025, 3:24 PM
Mahfuza Khanam, a freedom fighter, educationist, and the first and only female Vice-President of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU), has passed away (Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un). She was 80 years old at the time of her death.
On Tuesday morning (12 August), she was taken to Health and Hope Hospital in Panthapath after feeling unwell. The doctors there declared her deceased.
Mahfuza Khanam resided on Indira Road, Dhaka, with her husband, former Law Minister Barrister Shafique Ahmed.
The news was confirmed from Barrister Shafique Ahmed’s chambers.
The couple are survived by two sons and one daughter. The eldest son and daughter are both medical professionals, while the younger son, Mahbub Shafique, is a practising lawyer.
Educational and Professional Background
Mahfuza Khanam was elected Vice-President of DUCSU in the 1966-67 elections, standing as a candidate from the Student Union. She graduated from the Department of Physics at Dhaka University in 1966, earning her undergraduate degree, and completed her postgraduate studies the following year.
In 1968, she was awarded a scholarship to the University of Sussex in London. However, due to political reasons, the Government of Pakistan denied her a passport at that time.
Mahfuza Khanam served as a teacher at various government colleges and later held the position of Director-General of the Secondary and Higher Education Department. She was also a member of the Dhaka University Senate.
Her contributions extended to leadership roles such as General Secretary of the Bangladesh Asiatic Society and Chairperson of the national children and youth organisation, Khelaghar Ashor.
Recognition and Legacy
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to education, Professor Mahfuza was awarded the Ekushey Padak in 2021.
Her death has been mourned by many, including the Bangladesh Udichi Shilpi Gosthi, who expressed their condolences and deep respect.
Summary of Life and Achievements
| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Mahfuza Khanam |
| Age at Death | 80 years |
| Position | First and only female Vice-President of DUCSU |
| Education | BSc & MSc in Physics, Dhaka University |
| Scholarship | University of Sussex, London (1968, passport denied) |
| Professional Roles | Teacher, Director-General of Secondary & Higher Education Department, Dhaka University Senate Member |
| Leadership | General Secretary, Bangladesh Asiatic Society; Chairperson, Khelaghar Ashor |
| Family | Husband: Barrister Shafique Ahmed (former Law Minister); Two sons and one daughter |
| Awards | Ekushey Padak, 2021 |
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