Kochi: The Indira Gandhi National Open University ( Ignou ) has decided to give fee exemption to transgender persons in all its academic programmes. This is set to benefit the 4,000 plus transgender persons in the state who have lost out on good job opportunities due to lack of necessary qualifications.“With an aim to integrate this special group into the mainstream, Ignou has decided to offer full fee exemption for transgender persons in all its academic programmes. The study material will also be provided free of cost,” said Ignou Kochi regional centre director M Rajesh.He said that the scheme has been introduced across the country and they will soon be reaching out to transgender persons in the state. “Already 5 to 6 persons from the community had approached us asking about our courses. With fee waiver, we expect to attract more people,” said Rajesh.Ignou, Kochi, from this academic year is introducing special customized courses for transgender persons. The courses are mostly aimed at enhancing the skills of those already employed. Already, some persons from the community who have joined the Kochi Metro have shown interest in these courses.Ignou charges Rs 750 to Rs 50,000 as fees, depending on the course offered. “Those who meet eligibility condition can join for the various degree, diploma, PG diploma, post-graduate certificate programmes and bachelor preparatory programme (BPP) of Ignou. The application can be submitted only through online mode,” said Rajesh. BPP is for educating those who do not have Plus Two qualification but aspire for further studies and bachelor’s degrees and will mainly benefit many transgender persons who dropped out of school due to discrimination.Transgender activist Tripthy Shetty welcomed the decision and said that it will definitely help hundreds of “poor” persons like her. “This will encourage many to go back to the classroom. We will be propagating it amongst our community members. Most of us are so stuck in the daily struggles that we have forgotten the importance of education in our lives,” said Tripthy.For seeking admission, the students will need to upload their Aadhaar card along with necessary certificates while taking admission. The last date for admission to degree, diploma, PG diploma, post graduate, certificate programmes and BPP is July 30. The last date for certificate programme has been extended till July 15.