South Africans are encouraged to learn South African Sign Language as the country commemorates International Month for Deaf People.

Observed annually in September, this month aims to raise awareness about the rights of deaf people and highlight the challenges they face globally. It promotes understanding of the deaf community and calls for inclusivity, including learning sign language to improve communication.

This year’s theme, ‘Sign up for Sign Language Rights’, focuses on the importance of sign language in fostering inclusivity. Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga emphasised that learning sign language is the most effective way to connect with deaf individuals.

“Public activities should promote the rights of the deaf community, fostering social cohesion and education on disability-inclusive language to eliminate discrimination,” Chikunga said.

She highlighted that South Africa’s deaf community includes over four million deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

A key development in 2024 was the inclusion of South African Sign Language as the country’s 12th official language through the amendment of Section 6 of the Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill. Chikunga also noted the historic achievement of Mia le Roux, the first individual with a hearing impairment to be crowned Miss South Africa.

The department called on all sectors of society to commemorate this month by developing initiatives that afford the deaf community the dignity they deserve. – SAnews.gov.za