Kolkata: In a groundbreaking achievement, Sumana Pramanik, a transgender woman from West Bengal, has cleared the State Eligibility Test (SET), making her eligible for the position of an assistant professor in universities and colleges. Her success sends a powerful message to society and her community, breaking stereotypes that confine transgender individuals to specific professions.
Born into poverty in Krishnanagar, Sumana faced neglect and discrimination from an early age. At just six years old, she was sent to Karimpur Asha Sisu Ashram, an orphanage nearly 80 km away from home. Despite the challenges, her passion for education remained undeterred. She completed her schooling at Jagannath High School and Kabi Bijoylal H.S. Institute, pursued higher education at Srikrishna College in Bagula and Kalyani University, and later earned a B.Ed from Berhampore Union Christian College.
Sumana had been appearing for the SET since 2019, but success finally came in 2025. Speaking about her journey, she said, “My success sends out the message that a transgender person has intellect and is capable of excelling in any field. I have faced rejection all my life, even from friends who hesitated to recommend students for my tuition classes, questioning how they would address me—Sir or Ma’am. This achievement is a response to all the rejections I have faced.”
Her struggles extended beyond academics. Sumana recalled how a tutor, while teaching her for free, constantly ridiculed her feminine side and insisted she should suppress it. She was even advised to seek counseling to “become a boy.” However, the counselor reassured her that she was just as healthy and capable as any other individual, emphasizing that it was society that needed counseling, not her.
Even in college, Sumana faced alienation—peers hesitated to share benches with her, landlords refused to rent her a place, and students were reluctant to take tuition from her. Despite these adversities, she remained determined to achieve her dream of becoming a mathematics teacher. “I have always loved mathematics, thanks to a wonderful teacher in school. This result, after five years of struggle, has strengthened my belief that tough times don’t last forever,” she said.
Sumana’s success not only marks a personal victory but also stands as an inspiration for the transgender community. Her journey underscores the need for inclusivity in education and employment, proving that talent and perseverance can break down societal barriers.
