The Punjab government has unveiled a major skills development initiative aimed at empowering the transgender community, signaling a noteworthy move toward greater socio-economic inclusion.
This effort seeks to address the persistent barriers transgender individuals face in accessing meaningful employment, often due to systemic discrimination and limited training opportunities.
Under the program’s first phase, 1,600 transgender individuals will be enrolled in professional training across a wide range of disciplines, including information technology, freelancing, healthcare assistance, tailoring, fashion design, electrical work, solar energy systems, and beauty and wellness services.
Notably, the introduction of specialized healthcare assistant training tailored specifically for transgender participants reflects a pioneering approach in addressing their unique needs.
Also read: NADRA ends CNIC service at post offices nationwide
At the program’s launch, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz condemned the entrenched social prejudice faced by transgender citizens, describing their marginalization as “deplorable.” She highlighted the harsh realities many endure, saying, “The cruel treatment meted out to the transgender community is extremely saddening; when denied proper jobs, they have no choice but to beg on the streets.”
She further encouraged participants to seize this opportunity to challenge stereotypes and demonstrate that “talent has no gender.” The initiative is being hailed as a progressive step that not only promotes skill-building but also affirms the dignity and potential of a long-overlooked segment of society.
