In a groundbreaking move, the Sindh government is poised to approve the Transgender Education Policy, as confirmed by Syed Sardar Ali Shah, the provincial education and culture minister. The announcement was made during a meeting in Karachi, where the draft of the Transgender Education Policy and its implementation plan were discussed with key stakeholders.
The meeting, attended by Deputy Chief Advisor JICA Abid Gul, Chief Advisor Curriculum of School Education Department Dr Fozia Khan, and other officials, focused on the challenges faced by the transgender community in accessing education and the importance of integrating them into the educational landscape to eliminate societal prejudices.
Education Minister Shah highlighted the government’s commitment to providing equal educational opportunities to every citizen, including transgender individuals, as mandated by Article 25-A of the Constitution. He emphasized that transgender individuals are an integral part of the nation and deserve empowerment through quality education and protection of their rights.
To address the barriers faced by transgender individuals in pursuing education, the Sindh government plans to establish Transgender Schools in each divisional headquarters, strategically located in areas with a significant transgender population. The policy will not only focus on formal education but also include non-formal and technical education, making it inclusive and comprehensive.
The Transgender Education Policy was formulated through a consultative process, incorporating valuable suggestions and recommendations from the transgender community. After its approval, the government will collaborate further with the community to ensure effective implementation. This collaboration is aimed at creating a society where transgender individuals can confidently claim their rights and enjoy the privileges accorded to all citizens.
The impending approval of the Transgender Education Policy marks a significant step towards building a more inclusive and equal society in Sindh, where every citizen, regardless of gender identity, has access to quality education and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
