Kajal Sharma, a 51-year-old transwoman working as a security guard with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), has achieved a significant milestone by successfully clearing the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination. Sharma scored 79.8 percent as a private candidate in the Maharashtra State Board’s Class X results, marking the beginning of her pursuit of further education and skill development.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Sharma, originally named Dinesh Vishwakarma from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, left her home at the age of 14 due to bullying and harassment. She spent years navigating life on the margins in various cities, including Delhi and Mumbai, before settling in Pune. Despite the challenges and a considerable gap in her education, Sharma harboured a persistent desire to study.
The opportunity to return to formal education arose in 2023 when the PMC began recruiting transgender women for security positions. Sharma saw this as a chance not only for a stable salary but also for legitimacy and dignity. Her role as a security guard at the PMC headquarters allowed her to pursue her studies during breaks, often reading textbooks tucked away in her bag.
Sharma’s journey back to academics was fraught with difficulties. She faced rejection for admission multiple times due to the long gap in her schooling and documentation issues. However, with the crucial support of the principal at Prathmesh High School in Pimpri and legal assistance to update her records, she was eventually admitted.
Sharma’s dedication to her studies involved long shifts followed by late-night study sessions. Colleagues and supervisors provided encouragement and flexibility, particularly during the examination period. Upon the declaration of results, her success was met with pride and a renewed sense of accomplishment.
Sharma’s story is one of overcoming adversity, societal stigma, and personal challenges. Her achievement underscores the importance of continuous learning and the pursuit of educational goals regardless of age or background. She has expressed aspirations for further education and skill development as she aims to secure a better future through continued learning and stable employment.
The Chenab Times News Desk