Sign Language in Schools: Deaf Community's Urgent Call

The Deaf community is urging for the mandatory inclusion of sign language instruction in every school across Nigeria, as well as enhanced co...

The Deaf community is urging for the mandatory inclusion of sign language instruction in every school across Nigeria, as well as enhanced cooperation between regular educators and those specializing in special education, emphasizing that genuine integration cannot be achieved without these changes.

They issued the request during a press briefing in Lagos on Wednesday, just before the All Africa Deaf Arts Festival 4.0, which is set to take place from December 1 to 6 in Oyo State.

At the briefing, Dr Akhere Akran, a specialist in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, highlighted that Nigeria's inclusion initiatives are mostly superficial, with many regular teachers lacking the necessary skills to assist deaf students.

Akran stated, "Each educator should possess a certain level of sign language proficiency. There needs to be a strong collaboration between regular and special education teachers for inclusion to succeed."

Akran argued that sign language should be instructed in the same manner as English and Mathematics.

I run a school where sign language is a required course, just like math and English. The reason is that we recognize there are individuals who communicate in different ways. This doesn't mean they are any less.

She condemned the superficial nature of including individuals with disabilities in various organizations.

"What we do out there is superficial, merely to check a compliance box. And once that's done, they disappear," she stated, noting that numerous deaf graduates continue to be unemployed despite policy assurances.

We are distinct, yet equally valuable," Akran stated. "If we show empathy, we won't be discussing inclusion and exclusion in 2025.

Akran praised the Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs for its continuous efforts but emphasized that "policy and practice differ."

Akran also pointed out the financial limitations encountered by the foundation.

We require funding," she stated. "Can the government assist us in obtaining a facility? We are looking for a Deaf community where we can house these young people, provide them with training, and empower them within their own environment.

She mentioned that Deaf dancers rely significantly on vibrations, which makes the logistics of rehearsals expensive.

At the inaugural South African Deaf Arts Festival, we increased the number of speakers to ensure that both vibration and sound could be experienced. It was expensive, but we are here. This is 4.0, and we won't give up anytime soon.

Additionally, Executive Director of the Seams Deaf-Pro Foundation, Mr. Samuel James, expressed concern over the lack of sustainable systems that enable deaf young people to develop skills, secure income, and make significant contributions to Africa's creative sector.

I have seen skilled Deaf artists face challenges, not due to a lack of talent, but because they don't have access, opportunities, guidance, and structures that acknowledge their capabilities," he stated. "This enthusiasm, along with my personal experience within the deaf community, forms the basis of this festival.

James mentioned that this year's festival will include more than 100 deaf individuals and young people with disabilities who will take part in engaging workshops and artistic programs from December 1 to 5 at the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo.

Participants will receive training in visual arts, digital arts and emerging media, conventional arts, dance methods, theatrical expression, creative management, professional growth, and set design.

On December 6, the Wole Soyinka Arts Theatre at the University of Ibadan will present shows, displays, movies, and combined artistic events.

"This version gathers artists and creators with disabilities from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and throughout the continent, all connected by perseverance, imagination, and a common vision for a more inclusive artistic environment," James stated.

The founder of Light Work Media House, Ade Oyeyipo, stated that the media should take on a more significant role in changing public perception.

"The typical individual doesn't grasp it. Sign language ought to be a fundamental subject in schools," she mentioned.

She mentioned that during a visit to a special school in Osun, she discovered there was only one sign language interpreter for the whole institution.

We must stop waiting for the government. We require cooperation from private organizations and individuals. Someone has to take action.

The media briefing featured various Deaf artists discussing their personal experiences.

Omowunmi Otunuyi from Seams Deaf-Pro Foundation stated, “I have encountered numerous difficulties. Others perceive us as almost human, but it's not important because whatever they can achieve, I can do in my own unique manner. I engage in more practice sessions than typical individuals. I sense the vibrations and develop a dance based on that, which is incredible. We require people to accept us as we are.”

David Usoro from Deaf Can Dance described the process the dancers use to practice:

If it's heavy and slow, I can sense the vibration. We practice frequently... we make errors, and then try again until Mr. Samuel says, 'It's perfect.' We once participated in a competition with dancers who had hearing impairments and finished in second place... and everyone knew we deserved to be first.

Dancer and choreographer Omotosho Olabanji discussed the methods used by deaf performers to maintain flawless coordination.

"I present them with the visual representation of my vision. We synchronize them with the music, incorporating rhythm and energy," he said.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).