Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Dilara Hafiz, wife of Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad and a distinguished educationist.

In a condolence message, the Prime Minister described her as a respected educationist and social worker. “With her death, the nation has lost a dedicated and outstanding contributor to education,” he said.

Dilara Hafiz passed away at Singapore General Hospital at 1:29 PM Singapore time on Saturday.

She was 78. She is survived by her husband, one son, one daughter, grandchildren and many well-wishers.

Throughout her career, Dilara Hafiz made significant contributions to education in Bangladesh. She served as principal of Eden Mohila College and Suhrawardy College at different times and also held the position of Director General of Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education under Ministry of Education.