The sole transgender school in Faisalabad has been closed by the Punjab Education Department.

The FirstStep Khawaja Sara Palace Non-Formal High School, situated in Mohammadi Colony, Shah Faisalabad, was abruptly closed down yesterday.

Over fifty transgender students were forced to drop out of school overnight, and teachers were fired without being paid.

Immediately following the closure, there was a protest outside the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Education's office in Faisalabad.

Teachers and students who identify as transgender came together to express their concerns and demand that the school be restored and that unpaid salaries be released.

Protesters claimed that in addition to making teachers unemployed, the shutdown has deprived pupils of a unique and crucial chance to study in a welcoming, safe setting.

The school was the only transgender-focused educational establishment in the whole Faisalabad district when it was founded in 2023.

It was more than just a place to learn for many students. Protesters highlighted how the school's provision of guidance, education, and dignity helped to guide transgender people away from exploitative activities like begging.

Additionally, FirstStep Khawaja Sara Palace Non-Formal High School had a strong connection to the local community.

The organization has previously planned activities for the transgender community, including free food camps, educational field trips, Mehfil-e-Milad, and big distributions of Niyaz and Langar.

On November 23, 2025, KPG solemnly honored Transgender Day of Remembrance in an effort to promote inclusion and awareness.

The school demonstrated its increased influence and community outreach by collaborating with civil society organizations and other transgender organizations, such as the Sathi Foundation.

Protesters have made a direct appeal to Maryam Nawaz, the chief minister of Punjab, asking her to step in, rebuild the school, and make sure that unpaid salaries are paid.