Now, transgenders will receive help from NGOs and corporates to pursue their higher education at the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
The varsity authorities said here on Saturday that proposals had come in from non-governmental organisations and companies, expressing their wish to support the higher education of transgenders. Nearly 15 members of the transgender community including those who had received jobs at the Kochi Metro attended a sensitisation programme on skill development and educational opportunities at a session organised on the IGNOU campus here.
Senior officials of the varsity pointed out that companies were willing to utilise the funds under the Corporate Social Responsibility to support the transgenders pursue various degree, certificate and skill-development courses.
IGNOU has kick-started efforts to encourage transgenders to enrol for its existing courses. Some of the recommended programmes include short-term sessions in computer skills, certificate courses in food and nutrition and bachelors preparatory programme.
Hibi Eden, MLA, said in his address at the sensitisation programme that no individual should be denied education on account of gender-related issues. The Right to Education Act has ensured education to all in the country, he said.
M. Rajesh, Regional Director of IGNOU, said the special programme would help transgenders accomplish their educational aspirations.
A special training session to step up the self-confidence of transgenders was held on the occasion. Tripti Shetty, a transgender activist, presented hand-made necklaces made by her.
