Women rights organisation Naripokkho received the "2023 Ruby Ghuznavi Award for Social Justice" in recognition of its long-standing work with the Biranganas, the war heroines of Bangladesh's Liberation War in 1971.

The award was presented at a ceremony held today at the BRAC Centre in the capital, according to a media release.

The award was introduced in 2023 by the Board of the AF Mujibur Rahman Foundation to commemorate the life and work of its late chairperson Ruby Ghuznavi.

Ruby devoted a great deal of her life to public service inspired by her two great passions-- the protection of the rights of marginalised groups and the preservation of Bangladesh's craft heritage through support for its craftspeople and traditions.

She served in a variety of organisations working on human rights, women's empowerment, and child protection and also spearheaded efforts to support the Biranganas.

The award is intended as a recognition of exceptional work by individuals and organisations that exemplify the values that Ruby Ghuznavi held dear.

On the other hand, the AF Mujibur Rahman Foundation, founded in 1985, supports a wide range of institutions and activities.

Its primary mission is the expansion of educational opportunities and improvement in the quality of education with a special emphasis on Mathematics.

The release says today's ceremony opened with a musical performance by noted singer Farida Parveen.

Prof Naila Kabeer and Prof Perween Hasan then spoke on behalf of the foundation, and Barrister Sara Hossain and Prof Firdous Azim spoke on behalf of Naripokkho.