Tanisha Yasmin Choiti has made history by becoming the first third-gender student to earn a Master’s degree under the Master of Social Science (MSS) in Sociology programme at Bangladesh Open University (BOU). She achieved this feat with a CGPA of 3.30 out of 4.00.
In recognition of her landmark achievement, Choiti was presented with a special honour crest during the university’s 34th founding anniversary ceremony on Wednesday. Chief guest Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon handed over the award to her.
The anniversary function was presided over by BOU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, with University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed attending as the special guest.
Choiti enrolled in the MSS in Sociology programme under the School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Languages at BOU in the 2023–2024 academic session, successfully completing her postgraduate degree through perseverance and academic merit.
According to university sources, BOU has been working since its inception to expand educational access for populations outside the conventional system and those deprived of learning opportunities. As part of this commitment, a separate study centre was set up under the Rangpur Regional Centre to ensure educational access for the third-gender community, where regular classes are conducted.
A press release noted that Education Minister Milon expressed satisfaction upon learning of BOU’s initiative for the third-gender community. He also assured full government support for the expansion and development of such inclusive educational activities.
The university authorities view Choiti’s achievement as a significant milestone towards social inclusion, equal right to education, and the establishment of a discrimination-free society. They expressed hope that her success will inspire other third-gender students to pursue higher education.
