BY ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia is playing a significant role in ensuring inclusive services for citizens, including by developing a comprehensive curriculum for sign language-speaking communities, according to the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs (MoWSA).
The country is currently hosting the first International Sign Language Research Conference, organized by the MoWSA, the National Association of the Deaf, and Addis Ababa University. The conference aims to provide valuable policy inputs, research findings, and recommendations to advance the field of sign language studies.
MoWSA Minister Ergogie Tesfaye (PhD) emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to providing inclusive services to sign language-speaking communities across various sectors. “The conference serves as a crucial platform for language and field researchers,” she stated. “We must continue to strive for expanded access to sign language education and interpretation services, ensuring that policies and their implementation reflect inclusivity and equality.”
Ergogie stressed the need for collaborative efforts and significant investment to ensure the widespread use of sign language among citizens.
Ethiopia’s UN Humanitarian Coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov (PhD) highlighted the importance of this conference as a testament to Ethiopia’s growing recognition of sign language.
“Sign language is more than a tool for expression; it is a bridge to education, employment, healthcare, and full participation in society,” he stated.
Ramiz emphasized that the lack of sign language development not only hinders sign language users but also limits their valuable contributions to society. He urged for increased efforts to address the challenges faced by sign language users and ensure their full participation in all aspects of life.
“Sign languages are not merely systems of communication; they are vibrant languages that embody the culture, history, and identity of deaf communities worldwide,” he said. “They remind us that linguistic diversity is a cornerstone of humanity’s shared heritage.”
Addis Ababa University Acting President Kifle (PhD) announced the establishment of a dedicated department within the university focusing on sign language and deaf education. He emphasized the university’s commitment to producing qualified scholars and researchers in this field.
Samuel urged all stakeholders to actively contribute to solving the challenges in sign language education. He emphasized the need for daily societal use of sign language to enhance its development and accessibility.
The university, he assured, will continue its research and development efforts to ensure quality education for all deaf citizens.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY 2025
