Kottayam: In a landmark step towards inclusive higher education, Mahatma Gandhi University in Kerala’s Kottayam district has opened the state’s first-ever hostel exclusively for transgender students.

State Social Justice Minister R Bindhu inaugurated the facility on Monday, calling it a “historic initiative” that responds to a long-standing demand of transgender students for safe and supportive accommodation.

The new hostel, located on the university campus, can house at least six students. University officials expressed hope that the facility will encourage more members of the transgender community to pursue higher education without fear of discrimination or housing struggles.

“There has been a remarkable rise in the number of transgender students qualifying for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the state. In this circumstance, I appreciate the hostel project initiated by MG University. The marginalised community has been fighting against several odds in life, and we must ensure social support for them,” Minister Bindhu told reporters.

She further pointed out that many transgender individuals continue to face rejection from their own families, making society’s role in offering dignity and acceptance all the more vital.

A transgender student at the university welcomed the initiative, calling it a boon. “Finding accommodation is one of the biggest challenges we face, especially with soaring rents. Having a safe space on campus is truly encouraging,” the student said.

The opening of the hostel is being seen as a milestone in Kerala’s journey towards gender justice and equality, setting an example for other universities across the country.