VSKU Breaks Barriers by Appointing Transgender Guest Lecturer

In a historic move, K.N. Renuka Pujar, a 27-year-old transgender woman, has been appointed as a guest lecturer at Vijayanagara Sri Krishnadevaraya University (VSKU) in Karnataka. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Pujar is likely the first transgender person to hold such a position at a university in the state.

Pujar, who completed her post-graduation in Kannada at VSKU, joined the Kannada department at the university’s Nandihalli campus (PG Centre) earlier this month. Reflecting on her journey, Pujar expressed immense gratitude for the support she received from her family and the university faculty. “I’m very happy. After a lot of struggle, I have reached this stage. The university has helped me a lot,” she said.

Her journey has been one of perseverance and determination. Pujar became transgender in 2017 while she was in her second year of undergraduate studies. She completed her degree in 2018 and went on to earn her MA in 2022. Her appointment as a guest lecturer is not only a personal achievement but also an inspiration for other transgender individuals to pursue higher education and aim for prominent roles in society.

University officials highlighted that Pujar was selected from among 30 candidates due to her impressive qualifications, good marks, and strong performance during her lecture. Her appointment is being hailed as a milestone, demonstrating the potential for progress and acceptance within academia and society.

Pujar’s ambition is clear: “I like teaching and want to pursue a PhD and become a professor. I want transgenders to pursue education,” she said. Her story stands as a testament to the power of education and the importance of support from family and institutions in achieving one’s dreams.