Staff Correspondent:

The government is going to launch an award named after Maherin Chowdhury, a teacher of Milestone School and College, who sacrificed her life to save at least 20 children during a fire caused by a fighter plane crash at the institution in Dhaka’s Uttara area on 21 July.

The Cabinet Division took the decision in principle on Thursday as a mark of respect to the departed soul, Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, said while talking to reporters after the cabinet meeting.

The education ministry will launch the award in memory of Maherin Chowdhury’s sacrifice, added the press secretary.

Two teachers and a female support staff member of the institution were among the deceased, he said, adding that the cabinet meeting also decided to confer honours on them.

The crash occurred around 1:00 pm on 21 July, when a Bangladesh Air Force fighter jet plunged into a building, housing the school’s primary section. Classes were in session, with numerous students inside.

At least 35 people were killed, including 32 students, two teachers and the pilot. At least 173 people were undergoing treatment, many with burns, mostly aged below 12, with at least 25 of them in critical condition.

According to eyewitnesses and rescue officials, Maherin sprang into action moments after the crash.

Amid blinding smoke and raging flames, she began ushering terrified children to safety.

At least 20 students managed to escape either unscathed or with minor injuries due to her swift actions.

Unfortunately, she became trapped in the building and suffered fatal burns and met a tragic end to her life at last.