In a landmark step for inclusive education, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training has moved to standardize Pakistan Sign Language (PSL) as a single national identity.
To translate this vision into national consensus, the Ministry, in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan, hosted a high-level National Policy Dialogue on the Standardization and Nationwide Adoption of PSL at the National Institute of Special Education (NISE) on Wednesday.
A major highlight was the ongoing Third National Consultation Workshop at NISE, an intensive 21-day session from October 7 to 25, dedicated to capturing high-definition photography and videography of 1,500 standardized signs developed and reviewed by the National Task Force over the past year.
The forum unanimously adopted a historic Joint Declaration that establishes NISE as the core federal institute for Pakistan Sign Language and mandates the National Task Force to finalize the definitive 1,500-sign compendium as Volume I under the Deaf-led principle.
The Ministry lauded the collective resolve of all federating units, UNICEF and Deaf leadership, calling it a robust roadmap for an inclusive future where every deaf child can learn, belong, grow and be heard.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar said the true significance lies in the voices and linguistic rights of Pakistan’s Deaf community. She termed the standardization of PSL a historic milestone for equity, dignity and equal citizenship.
She said inclusivity is a constitutional promise, not charity, noting Pakistan’s obligations under Articles 21 and 24 of the UNCRPD to promote sign languages. She also lauded NISE’s role since 1991 and UNICEF’s partnership in advancing the national initiative.
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