Nation lost a torchbearer: Dignitaries on Niloufer Manzur

The death of Niloufer Manzur, a renowned educationist and a highly respected member of Dhaka society, left people from a cross-section of the society mourning her demise.

They recalled her as a compassionate and intelligent human being who truly cared about providing quality education. She was a humble woman despite her vast wealth and social prestige, mourners say.

Dr Fahmida Khatun, executive director of Centre for Policy Dialogue, said "The founder of Sunbeams School Niloufer Manzur dedicated her entire life to make the school a centre of excellence from scratch."

"During the last 47 years, she gifted the nation thousands of young leaders in their respective fields. With her departure, the country has lost an enlightened human being and a torchbearer who chose to change the lives of our children by bringing out the best in them by instilling confidence and noble values," Fahmida said.

She said thousands of students are carrying her dream across the world. "She was an institution herself. She left a legacy that will continue to enlighten our country for generations."

Anis A Khan, a former managing director of Mutual Trust Bank, said she was a very courteous, loving, sincere and an extraordinary lady with always a smile on her face.

Reacting to Mrs Niloufer's demise, an Economic Analyst Mamun Rashid said, "People are saying - Principal Niloufer Manzur is no more. I can't believe it! How can a great teacher die? How can a great institution builder like Niloufer die?"

The Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) also expressed deep condolence at the demise of Niloufer Manzur, also wife of Syed Manzur Elahi, a former adviser to the caretaker government and chairman of Apex Footwear.

Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) has expressed deep grief at the death of renowned educationist and founding principal of Sunbeams school Niloufer Manzur.

The foundation, a non-government and non-profit organisation works for the poor and marginalised communities prayed for the salvation of the departed soul and expressed condolence for her bereaved family, read a press release on Tuesday. 

MJF also prayed for the rapid recovery of Manzur Elahi, who is undergoing treatment staying at home after being diagnosed with Covid-19 positive on May 23. 

The Chairman, Board of Directors, Management, Members and all Stakeholders of Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) expressed their profound sorrow at the death of  Niloufer Manzur.

She was a pioneering nation builder and founder of one of the finest english medium school "Sunbeams" in January 1974. All of her thousands of students across many age groups spread around the world will feel her death deep in their hearts. She taught thousands of her students morality, values and patriotism along with top class education.

Her loss to the nation is immeasurable. May her soul rest in eternal peace.