Rajgir, Bihar. Md Abdur Rahman, the Secretary General of the SAARC Journalists Forum (SJF), has been conferred with a prestigious international award for his exemplary dedication to geopolitical peace, human rights, and media freedom in South Asia.
The honor was presented during the two-day “International Conference on International Mother Language & International Award-2026,” held on January 4–5, 2026, at the International Conference Hall of Nalanda Open University in Bihar. The summit was a joint initiative by Nalanda Open University and the SAARC Journalists Forum (SJF).
The conference served as a high-level platform for renowned journalists, academics, human rights defenders, and cultural icons from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Thailand, Mauritius, and the United States. Discussions centered on the critical importance of the mother language, democratic values, and the protection of journalists in increasingly complex political environments.
A major focus of the summit was the geopolitical stability of South Asia. Participants discussed the revitalized role of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in overcoming bilateral tensions and fostering a culture of mutual respect and harmony.
In recognition of his influential role in bridging regional divides and advocating for the rights of the press, Secretary General Abdur Rahman was formally honored. Under his leadership, the SAARC Journalists Forum has become a pivotal voice for media professionals across the subcontinent.
“This recognition belongs to all journalists who work under challenging conditions to uphold the truth,” said Abdur Rahman during his acceptance speech. “Our mission remains to foster a peaceful South Asia where freedom of expression and human rights are the foundations of progress.”
The event concluded with a call for stronger regional integration and the protection of linguistic diversity as a tool for global peace.
About SAARC Journalists Forum (SJF):
The SAARC Journalists Forum is a regional organization dedicated to protecting the rights of journalists and promoting press freedom, peace, and cultural exchange among SAARC nations.
About Nalanda Open University:
Located in the historic region of Bihar, Nalanda Open University is a premier institution of higher learning, continuing the legacy of ancient Nalanda as a center for international knowledge and cultural exchange.
Abdur Rahman, who serves as a Senior Correspondent for the ‘Bangladesh Post’—one of the premier national English dailies in Bangladesh—was recognized for his dual role in mainstream journalism and regional leadership as the Secretary General of SJF.
