IGNOU induction programme for transgender learners

LUCKNOW: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) organised an induction programme for transgender community students at its study centre – Maharaja Bijli Pasi Govt. PG College, here on Friday.

The varsity had opened its gate for the transgender community from July 2017 session in a bid to universalize and democratize higher education.

Taking advantage of this opportunity, as many as 10 learners from transgender community took admission in Bachelor’s Preparatory Programme (BPP) at IGNOU Regional Centre, Lucknow.

During this programme attended by others students as well, identity cards were distributed to transgender students.

Chief guest Sanjeev Kumar Shukla, divisional commandant, home guards, UP government, appreciated the efforts of IGNOU and felt that this step would bring transgender community in the main stream of the society and also empower them.

Regional director, Manorama Singh, informed students about the structure and functions of IGNOU and highlighted the importance of academic counseling.

She said regional centre will organise awareness programmes in various districts under the jurisdiction of IGNOU regional centre, Lucknow and will inform learners about benefits of higher education.

Assistant regional director, Kirti Vikram Singh, said Indira Gandhi National Open University had become the first university in India to offer free education to the transgender community.

Those candidates from transgender community who do not have any formal education may take admission in the bachelor’s preparatory programme (BPP).

After completing this they will be granted admission to graduation programme.

Manju Dixit, principal and Balram Singh, coordinator, IGNOU were also present on the occasion.