The Social Justice Department fully funds the programme, and participants are also receiving assistance in updating their identity documents to ensure fair access to jobs.
Published Aug 13, 2025 | 8:13 AM ⚊ Updated Aug 13, 2025 | 8:13 AM
The programme is supported by the Kerala State Social Justice Department and the Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission (KKEM).
In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the aviation sector, GMR Aero Academy Kochi, in partnership with the Additional Skill Acquisition Programme (ASAP) of the Kerala government, has begun professional training for transgender candidates under ‘Project Pride’.
The programme is supported by the Kerala State Social Justice Department and the Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission (KKEM).
Formally inaugurated by Higher Education and Social Justice Minister Dr R Bindu, the initiative aims to enhance workplace inclusion and create employment opportunities for the transgender community. The first batch is undergoing a 90-day offline Certification in Airport Operations at the Kochi centre, covering both theoretical and practical skills to improve employability in airport and aviation services.
The Social Justice Department fully funds the programme, and participants are also receiving assistance in updating their identity documents to ensure fair access to jobs. The selection process involved officials from the Social Justice Department, KKEM, ASAP, and GMR Aero Academy.
Earlier, a state-wide awareness webinar was held on January 27. GMR Group’s CEO – Airport Strategic Initiatives, Andrew Acquaah Harrison, described Project Pride as a platform for ”empowerment, dignity, and social inclusion,” underscoring the impact of government-industry collaboration in fostering equity.
