Inclusivity/Gender
Ogun: Association launches basic sign language class to promote inclusion
Written By: Daily South Nigeria
25 Nov 2025 04:54 AM
Abeokuta, Ogun – In a significant step toward fostering inclusivity and communication access, the Ogun State Chapter of the Association of Sign Language Interpreters of Nigeria (ASLIN) officially launched its Basic Sign Language Class for beginners on Monday.
The initiative aims to empower Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals while bridging the communication gap with the hearing community across the state.
The launch event, held at a community center in Abeokuta, drew a diverse crowd, including educators, community leaders, and representatives from local NGOs.
The association disclosed in initial reports, emphasized that the program is a cornerstone of efforts to reduce discrimination and enhance equal access to education, employment, and active participation in community life for persons with hearing impairments.
The Basic Sign Language Class is designed to equip participants with foundational skills in Nigerian Sign Language (NSL), enabling them to engage meaningfully with the Deaf community.
The curriculum, developed by ASLIN’s trained professionals, goes beyond mere vocabulary, addressing grammar, syntax, and cultural nuances to ensure effective communication. The initiative also seeks to cultivate empathy, mutual respect, and social unity by encouraging interactions between Deaf and hearing individuals.
“Learning sign language is not just about language; it’s about building a society where everyone feels included and valued,” a participant told DAILY South Nigeria
The program aligns with broader national and international efforts, such as USAID’s Deaf-E3 initiative, which recently invested $2.05 million to enhance sign language-based education in Nigeria.
The launch comes amid growing recognition of the need for inclusive policies, with fewer than 40% of Nigeria’s Deaf children currently enrolled in primary school, according to recent statistics. By training community members, educators, and employers, ASLIN hopes to create a ripple effect, improving access to services and opportunities for the Deaf population in Ogun State.
The classes are open to beginners of all ages and will be held weekly, with sessions tailored to accommodate diverse schedules.
ASLIN plans to expand the program to rural areas in the coming months, partnering with local schools and organizations to maximize reach.
Interested participants are encouraged to register through ASLIN’s Ogun State office or its official website.
The initiative has been warmly received, with local leaders praising ASLIN’s commitment to inclusivity.
“This is a game-changer for our state,” said a community elder present at the launch, noting, “It’s a step toward ensuring no one is left behind.”
As the first cohort of learners begins their journey into sign language, the Ogun State Chapter of ASLIN is poised to set a precedent for community-driven inclusion, reinforcing the power of communication in building a more equitable society.
The initiative aims to empower Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals while bridging the communication gap with the hearing community across the state.
The launch event, held at a community center in Abeokuta, drew a diverse crowd, including educators, community leaders, and representatives from local NGOs.
The association disclosed in initial reports, emphasized that the program is a cornerstone of efforts to reduce discrimination and enhance equal access to education, employment, and active participation in community life for persons with hearing impairments.
The Basic Sign Language Class is designed to equip participants with foundational skills in Nigerian Sign Language (NSL), enabling them to engage meaningfully with the Deaf community.
The curriculum, developed by ASLIN’s trained professionals, goes beyond mere vocabulary, addressing grammar, syntax, and cultural nuances to ensure effective communication. The initiative also seeks to cultivate empathy, mutual respect, and social unity by encouraging interactions between Deaf and hearing individuals.
“Learning sign language is not just about language; it’s about building a society where everyone feels included and valued,” a participant told DAILY South Nigeria
The program aligns with broader national and international efforts, such as USAID’s Deaf-E3 initiative, which recently invested $2.05 million to enhance sign language-based education in Nigeria.
The launch comes amid growing recognition of the need for inclusive policies, with fewer than 40% of Nigeria’s Deaf children currently enrolled in primary school, according to recent statistics. By training community members, educators, and employers, ASLIN hopes to create a ripple effect, improving access to services and opportunities for the Deaf population in Ogun State.
The classes are open to beginners of all ages and will be held weekly, with sessions tailored to accommodate diverse schedules.
ASLIN plans to expand the program to rural areas in the coming months, partnering with local schools and organizations to maximize reach.
Interested participants are encouraged to register through ASLIN’s Ogun State office or its official website.
The initiative has been warmly received, with local leaders praising ASLIN’s commitment to inclusivity.
“This is a game-changer for our state,” said a community elder present at the launch, noting, “It’s a step toward ensuring no one is left behind.”
As the first cohort of learners begins their journey into sign language, the Ogun State Chapter of ASLIN is poised to set a precedent for community-driven inclusion, reinforcing the power of communication in building a more equitable society.
Comments