The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training has taken a major step toward standardizing Pakistan Sign Language (PSL). The initiative aims to establish a unified national system to improve communication and support inclusive education for deaf people.
The ministry organized a high-level National Policy Dialogue in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan. The event took place at the National Institute of Special Education (NISE) on Wednesday. Participants discussed the standardization and nationwide adoption of Pakistan Sign Language.
The initiative aims to build national agreement on using standardized signs across the country. It also seeks to improve educational opportunities and protect the linguistic rights of Pakistan’s Deaf community.
National Consultation Focuses on 1,500 Standardized Signs
A key part of the initiative is the Third National Consultation Workshop at NISE. The 21-day workshop runs from October 7 to October 25.
The session focuses on documenting 1,500 standardized signs through high-definition photography and videography. The National Task Force developed and reviewed these signs over the past year.
This work will help create a comprehensive reference for Pakistan Sign Language. A standardized collection could support teachers, students, interpreters, and institutions working with deaf communities.
The forum also unanimously adopted a Joint Declaration during the policy dialogue. The declaration establishes NISE as the main federal institute for Pakistan Sign Language.
It also directs the National Task Force to complete the first volume of the official collection. This volume will contain the finalized 1,500 standardized signs.
The process will follow a Deaf-led approach, ensuring the community plays a central role. This approach recognizes the importance of involving deaf people in decisions about their language and communication needs.
Government Highlights Equal Rights and Inclusive Education
Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar described the initiative as a historic milestone. She said the standardization of Pakistan Sign Language would support equity, dignity, and equal citizenship.
Qamar emphasized that the initiative must recognize the voices and linguistic rights of Pakistan’s Deaf community. She also stated that inclusion is a constitutional commitment rather than an act of charity.
The minister highlighted Pakistan’s obligations under Articles 21 and 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). These obligations support efforts to promote sign languages and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
She also acknowledged NISE’s contribution since 1991. In addition, she praised UNICEF Pakistan for supporting the national initiative.
Sign Language Initiative Aims to Build an Inclusive Future
The ministry praised the cooperation between federal and provincial representatives, UNICEF, and Deaf community leaders. Their participation reflects a shared commitment to improving access and opportunities for deaf children.
Standardizing Sign Language could help reduce communication barriers in educational institutions and public services. It may also encourage more consistent learning resources across different regions of Pakistan.
A common reference for Pakistan Sign Language could help teachers and institutions deliver more accessible education. It could also improve communication between deaf individuals and people learning the language.
The initiative aims to create an environment where every deaf child can learn, participate, and develop their abilities. Through continued cooperation, the government hopes to strengthen inclusion and protect the linguistic rights of the Deaf community.
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The completion of the 1,500-sign collection will be an important step toward this goal. Its implementation and nationwide adoption will remain essential to achieving lasting progress.
