Sindh education minister joins FJDC and PAD to mark International Day of Sign Languages
KARACHI: The Pakistan Association of the Deaf (PAD), in collaboration with Fatima Jinnah Dental College (FJDC), commemorated the International Day of Sign Languages with a vibrant celebration that placed inclusivity, advocacy, and empowerment at its core.
The event, held at the FJDC auditorium, was graced by Syed Sardar Ali Shah, Minister of Education for Sindh, who served as Chief Guest. In his keynote address, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable education for persons with disabilities, stressing the importance of policy frameworks that recognize sign language as a fundamental human right.
FJDC’s pioneering role in inclusive healthcare
Adding academic and institutional depth to the event, Prof. Dr. Syed Hussain Askary, CEO of FJDC, addressed the audience. He highlighted the urgent need for the standardization of sign language in Pakistan and applauded PAD’s tireless advocacy efforts.
Dr. Askary underscored FJDC’s own contribution through its pioneering initiative, the Pakistan Dental Sign Language Book, launched in 2023. This groundbreaking effort continues to train dental students in sign language, ensuring inclusivity in healthcare.
He stated:
“Healthcare must be inclusive and language should never be a barrier to care. By equipping our students with sign language, we are building a healthcare workforce that listens, understands, and heals inclusively.”
Celebrating culture and identity in sign language
The program, conducted entirely in Pakistan Sign Language (PSL), opened with a moving recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Abdul Qadir, a Grade V student, followed by a heartfelt rendition of Naat Sharif in sign by Mehtab Imran (Grade VI).
The National Anthem, collectively performed in PSL by students of Classes VI and X, filled the hall with patriotic unity, transcending spoken words. Throughout the event, students from the primary and secondary sections captivated the audience with national songs and performances, including a charming welcome song by the Play Group.
A thought-provoking presentation by Syed Amin, Director PAD, highlighted the global and national significance of the International Day of Sign Languages. Additionally, a recorded message from Sir Irfan, Chief Executive PAD, extended gratitude to distinguished guests while reaffirming PAD’s mission of advocacy and empowerment.
Summarizing the spirit of the day, a PAD spokesperson stated:
“Sign language is not a barrier but a bridge—connecting communities, cultures, and aspirations. Today, we celebrated that bridge.”
Towards a more inclusive Pakistan
This collaboration between PAD and FJDC reflects a transformative vision of inclusivity, where healthcare and education institutions work alongside policymakers and civil society to champion the rights of the Deaf community.
As PAD continues its mission for sign language standardization, and FJDC strengthens the integration of sign language into dental education, this event stands as a beacon of advocacy, empowerment, and progressive leadership in Pakistan.
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