Mahfuza Khanam

While Khanam was a student of the University of Dhaka, she served as the vice-president of Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU).^[4] In 2009, Khanam served as the General Secretary of Asiatic Society of Bangladesh.^[5]

Khanam served as the director general of Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education.^[6] She served as the chairperson of Khelaghar Ashor, an organisation for children.^[7][8] She is also the president of several organisations including Manikganj Samity in Dhaka, Peshajibi Nari Samaj (Professional Women Society) and Federation of World Teachers' Association (FWTA).^[9][10][11] She is a vice-president on the executive committee of the Itihas Academy.^[12] She also served as 15th Principal of Manikgonj Gov't Women's College, Manikgonj.^[13]

Begum Mahfuza Khanom was awarded for Ekushey Padak (it is the second highest civilian award in Bangladesh, introduced in memory of the martyrs of the Bengali Language Movement of 1952. The award is given to recognize contributions in a number of fields, including culture, education, and economics.) In 2021, The Ministry of Cultural Affairs administers the award to 21 distinguished citizens of the country for outstanding contributions in their respective fields.^[14] She got the award for the contribution in Education.

Khanam was born to Mustafizur Rahman Khan and Saleha Khanam.^[15] She is married to Shafique Ahmed, a barrister and a former minister of law.^[16]