Trans Inclusive Learning Centre inaugurated
Despite some progress in recent years, the transgender community in Pakistan still faces significant challenges.—PHOTO: AFP/FILE
Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Tuesday inaugurated the Inclusive Learning Centre for Transgenders.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony at the Wasif Ali Shaheed Model School for Boys, G11/2, Minister Rana Tanveer expressed his pleasure and gratitude to witness the inauguration of the centre, highlighting the nobility of the initiative.
He said: “The country today witnessed a historic moment of progress and inclusivity as they (transgenders) will also get an education as it is their right to receive education, just like any other member of this state.”
Emphasising the importance of inclusivity, the minister stated, “Education should be given to every individual, regardless of their gender, race, and religion.” He firmly believed that by providing opportunities to the transgender community, they can play a vital role in the development of Pakistan.
Bold step
He stated that the Inclusive Learning Centre for Transgenders represents a bold step towards building a more inclusive and equal society, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress.
As we embark on this transformative journey, we invite the support and collaboration of all stakeholders, including government institutions, private sector entities, and civil society organizations, to ensure the success and sustainability of this noble endeavour.
The minister extended his gratitude to all stakeholders, including the managing director of the National Education Foundation (NEF), for their role in making this project a reality.
He also expressed his commitment to establishing a complete formal educational institute in the future, specifically tailored to enrol transgender learners for comprehensive education.
Additionally, the minister stressed the importance of vocational skills to ensure economic stability for the transgender community.
Govt’s responsibility
Waseem Ajmal Chaudhary, Secretary Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, who was also there highlighted the government's responsibility to educate children aged 5-16 years and explained how this project was initiated under the direction of the minister.
The accelerated learning plan will provide transgender individuals with basic education, and subsequently, they will be linked with vocational training institutes to acquire essential skills.
Honorarium
Chaudhary announced an honorarium of Rs500 per day for learners on showing 75% attendance to mitigate their economic challenges and to encourage them to get an education.
National Education Foundation Managing Director Tahira S Shaikh, welcomed the distinguished guests and expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Minister Rana Tanveer and Waseem Ajmal Chaudhary, Secretary Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, for their vision and unwavering support.
Transgender rights activists Nayyab Ali and Saba Gul also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders and the government for this ground-breaking initiative.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 26th, 2023.