Faisalabad’s sole educational institution dedicated to transgender students has been abruptly closed by the Punjab Education Department, disrupting the studies of over fifty individuals and leaving teachers without pay.
The FirstStep Khawaja Sara Palace Non-Formal High School in Mohammadi Colony was shut down without warning, according to a 24NewsHD report. The closure triggered immediate protests outside the office of the CEO Education Faisalabad, where transgender students and educators called for the school’s restoration and the payment of withheld salaries.
Founded in 2023, the school provided a critical safe haven and an alternative to marginalized livelihoods like begging. It offered not only formal education but also served as a vibrant community hub. The institution organized religious gatherings (Mehfil-e-Milad), charity food distributions (Langar), educational trips, free food camps, and commemorated the Transgender Day of Remembrance. Its community outreach was further strengthened through partnerships with civil society groups like the Sathi Foundation.
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Protesters have now appealed directly to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for intervention. They urge the government to reopen the school, settle the unpaid salaries, and safeguard the educational rights and dignity of Faisalabad’s transgender communit