In the 1950s, the World Federation of the Deaf dedicated September to raising deaf awareness. Both the Deaf Federation of South Africa (DeafSA) and the South African National Deaf Association (Sanda) promote and advocate for the rights of deaf persons in South Africa. During Deaf Awareness Week, the accomplishments and challenges of deaf people are highlighted.
There’s growing awareness about hearing loss, deafness, deaf culture, and sign language. By understanding deafness and the culture of the deaf community, a hearing person can better understand deafness. This year’s theme is “Building Inclusive Communities for All”.
The education of deaf and hard of hearing learners is influenced by negative and positive factors. The lack of deaf role models or recognition of South African Sign Language (SASL) as a language of learning and teaching (LOLT), as well as the wanting fluency in SASL among teachers are some of the factors. The education system is considering bi-modal communication. The challenge, however, is finding schools where sign language is offered.
The Carel du Toit Special School in Bloemfontein has a vision to teach spoken language and support children with hearing impairments. But it does not offer sign language as a language of education.
The Bartimea School for the Blind and Deaf in Thaba Nchu is an alternative which offers Sign Language. Learners from this school learn sign language and are confident in their communication because of an excellent teaching and learning vision.
With SASL set to become the country’ 12th official language, the Department of Basic Education will recognise it as a home language and part of the national school curriculum in Gr. R to Gr. 12, under the gazetted amendment. Deaf learners will now be able to select SASL as a home language in schools. The department has also made amendments on the passing criteria for learners who make this decision.
Since SASL is the first language for most within the deaf community, these positive changes will significantly impact learners’ ability to excel in school.
“This is called the Amendment Regulations, pertaining to the National Curriculum Statement Grades R – 12, 2022 and will come into effect on the date of publication in the Government Gazette.”
A growing number of South Africans are fluent in the language, and this will ultimately lead to a more inclusive language and a greater appreciation of deaf culture.
Positive school experiences for deaf or hearing-impaired children are necessary.
Deaf children must have the same schooling experiences as every other child in the country, namely a clean school, a bright and safe playground, and access to sports facilities. This alone would make a difference in how they experience the world. Rather than the frustration they face daily, they need to have hope that this world will improve. Their safe spaces should at least be exactly that: safe!
– Kelebogile Olivier, lecturer in the Department of Criminology, and secretary of the University of the Free State Women’s Forum.
