Ministry of Gender and Family has conducted a Basic Sign Language Course for public service providers in Haa Alif Atoll. The training, conducted in two phases from 16 to 24 December, aims to facilitate easier access to services by minimizing communication barriers faced by persons with hearing impairments.
At the closing ceremony held tonight, President of HA. Atoll Council, Vice-President of HA. Dhidhdhoo Island Council and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Gender and Family awarded certificates to a total of 66 participants from seven islands of the Atoll. Top achievers of the training were awarded certificates by the Minister of Gender and Family, Zenysha Shaheed Zaki.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister Zenysha noted that Ministry of Gender and Family plans to conduct various programmes across the country, to provide equal opportunities and increase participation of persons with disabilities. Minister Zenysha also expressed hope that participants of this training would take a lead role in developing the sector at the Atoll level. In addition, she urged the participants to encourage other individuals to learn sign language.
Participants from Baarah, Dhidhdhoo, Hoarafushi, Ihavandhoo, Kelaa and Uligamu took part in the training organized by the Ministry in collaboration with HA. Atoll Council and HA. Dhidhdhoo Island Council. HA. Atoll and Island Councils, Family and Children Service Centre, HA. Dhidhdhoo Magistrate Court, HA. Atoll Hospital, HA. Education Centre, Police Station, FENAKA Regional and Dhidhdhoo Branch, and Bank of Maldives were among the participating agencies.
24 December 2017