MACRA, Ministry of Education Collaborate to Promote Sign Language Clubs in Malawi Schools
Training Program Aims to Enhance Communication for the Deaf Community
DOWA, Malawi-The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), in partnership with the Ministry of Education (MoE) through the Directorate of Inclusive Education (DIE), is conducting training sessions for teachers to establish sign language clubs in primary and secondary schools across the country, writes Mphatso M'bang'ombe.
This collaborative project aims to improve communication between the deaf community and the general public by promoting the use of sign language.
Daud Suleman, the Director General for MACRA, highlighted that the project's primary objective is to increase awareness and exposure to Malawi's sign language through the establishment of sign language clubs.
Suleman expressed confidence that this initiative would enable more individuals to learn and utilize sign language, ultimately facilitating better communication.
"We believe that by establishing these clubs, we can expand the reach of Malawi's sign language and make it accessible to a wider audience," stated Suleman.
Furthermore, Suleman emphasized that this project would contribute to ensuring equal communication services for all citizens, regardless of their geographical location or disabilities.
Racheal Chikwete Phiri, the Principal Secretary for Basic Education in the Ministry of Education, acknowledged the significant communication challenges faced by the deaf community in their localities.
Phiri highlighted that the concept of sign language clubs would play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
"The introduction of sign language clubs will help overcome the communication barriers faced by persons with disabilities," Phiri noted.
Annie Kabuluzi, a participant and teacher from Lilongwe Girls Secondary School, expressed her gratitude for being involved in the inclusive training program.
Kabuluzi recognized the positive impact of such training in promoting inclusive education throughout the country.
"This training will contribute to the advancement of inclusive education in Malawi," Kabuluzi affirmed.
The funding for this project will be provided by MACRA through the Universal Services Fund (USF), ensuring the necessary resources are available to support the establishment of sign language clubs in schools across Malawi.
This collaborative effort between MACRA, the Ministry of Education, and the Directorate of Inclusive Education signifies a significant step towards enhancing communication and inclusivity for the deaf community in the country.