Subscribe

Don't miss any update with Africazine.

― Advertisement ―

spot_img

“Investing in Tomorrow: Innovative Financing Solutions for Future-Ready Cities”

Join the conversation on sustainable urbanization at the World Urban Forum (WUF) in Cairo, Egypt, from November 4 to 8, 2024. As the leading global conference on urban development, WUF addresses the challenges and opportunities of rapid urbanization. Read more from Africazine.
HomeAfricaExciting Initiative to Create a Distinctive Synchronized Sign Language!

Exciting Initiative to Create a Distinctive Synchronized Sign Language!

The Gambia to Launch Sign Language Dictionary Initiative

In an exciting advancement for inclusive education, The Gambia’s Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE), through its Early Childhood and Inclusive Education Directorate (ECIED), is embarking on a revolutionary project: the creation of a comprehensive sign language dictionary tailored specifically for Gambian schools. This initiative, backed by the World Bank through the Resilience, Inclusive, Skills, and Equity (RISE) project, aims to establish a unified approach to teaching and learning sign language, especially in schools catering to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

During a recent nationwide assessment, lead consultant Evans Brurichani expressed his optimism about the integration of sign language as an effective medium of instruction in Gambian schools. Speaking from Brikama Jamisa on October 18, 2024, he highlighted how a standardized dictionary would empower teachers and students alike, fostering a seamless communication environment. “The diversity of sign language across different cultures necessitates a common ground here in The Gambia. Our goal is to convene stakeholders to agree on the signs to be adopted, helping children articulate their thoughts and grasp the concepts being taught,” he explained.

The project will not only address the inconsistencies in sign language usage across schools but also provide essential training for teachers in deaf education. Aida Badgie, a Senior Education Officer at ECIED, commended the existing pedagogical approaches in schools, emphasizing their child-centered ethos that aligns perfectly with the goals of this innovative project.

Karamo Sanyang, a principal involved in the consultations, echoed these sentiments, pointing out how the lack of standardized signs has made community engagements challenging. He underscored the positive impact this dictionary could have, stating, “With this initiative, we can bridge the communication gap within our communities and enhance the educational experience for our deaf students.”

Moreover, Abdou Kadir Drammeh, a senior Quranic sign language teacher and former president of the Gambia Association of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (GADHOH), championed the dictionary’s potential benefits. “This resource will not only empower teachers to deliver quality education but will also significantly enhance classroom interaction for our students,” he noted.

The development of a sign language dictionary represents a pivotal moment for The Gambia’s educational landscape, ensuring inclusivity and promoting equitable access to learning for all students. By improving communication tools for the deaf community, this initiative aligns with global efforts toward building a more inclusive society.

Stay tuned for more updates as The Gambia makes strides toward an inclusive educational future!

Tags: #Gambia #Education #Inclusion #SignLanguage #WorldNews