March 6, 2026
DHAKA – Maherin Chowdhury lost her life while saving students after a Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) fighter jet crashed into the Milestone School and College building in Dhaka’s Uttara on July 21 last year.
Her bravery has since moved people across the country.
Maherin, 44, a teacher and coordinator at the Diabari campus of Milestone College, suffered 100% burns while rescuing at least 20 students from the burning primary school building of the institute.
She died later that day from her injuries at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery (NIBPS) while undergoing treatment.
Talking to The Daily Star, her husband, Monsur Helal, said the honour reflects the respect and love of the entire nation.
“As human beings, many of us might wish we could take such a brave step in that moment. She (Maherin) was able to do it, and the nation has given her this recognition for that,” he said.
Helal added that he sees the award as a collective pride for the people of Bangladesh.
“This honour actually belongs to all 18 crore people of Bangladesh,” he said. “I believe it was a heartfelt wish of the nation, and perhaps that wish has now been fulfilled.”
He also reflected on the deeper impact of Maherin’s actions, saying that teachers carry a strong moral responsibility in society.
According to him, her sacrifice has touched the conscience of the nation and reminded people of the ideals associated with the teaching profession.
Speaking about how the family learned about the award, Helal said they first received unofficial news around 3:30 pm.
“Later, around 4:00 pm-4:30 pm, we received the official confirmation through the press release,” he said, adding that members of the award committee informed them about the recognition.