An Exploratory study on Academic Experiences and Perception of Transgender students in context of Double Marginalisation

Abstract

Discrimination in Indian society is based on gender, identity, socioeconomic conditions, caste and religion. Gender identity-based discrimination is double marginalised in society. Transgenders are one of them. The educational status of transgender individuals is poor because they face family rejections, bullying in schools, discrimination in educational institutions, violence in society and harassment at different stages in their lives. This study aims to assess transgender students' perception and academic experiences in higher education. The main objective of the study is to assess transgender students' perception of higher education towards their inclusivity in society and to explore their expectations from institutional support that enhance their academic development. This study also identifies gaps between current experiences and desire reforms on the basis of government policies, well-being and institutional facilities. A semi-structured interview schedule was administered on 55 transgender students. Data were collected through online and offline interviews with transgender students. Qualitative analysis indicates that participants deal with a variety of intertwined forms of discrimination, institutional negligence and stigma. This paper shows that they face social exclusion, familial rejection and financial difficulties that further limit their access to education and involvement in academic life. The findings of the paper also shows that institutional environment frequently perpetuates heteronormative and binary gender norms in Indian society. To cater the issues like double marginalisation of transgender students, this paper suggests the policy intervention should go beyond symbolic representation. This paper also suggest that marginalised students can be included in main stream through curricula based on gender affirmation, and teacher sensitization and also it focused on support services that acknowledge socio structural vulnerabilities and their gender identities.