18 March 2003: No 17/03

Communications is an important aspect of access to services. Access to communication, therefore, forms an integral part of the equalisation of opportunities for people with communication disabilities, such as deaf people, people with speech disabilities and people with visual disabilities.

Sign language is the first and natural language of deaf people, whatever the spoken language of his/her hearing parents may be. Sign language is the central focus of deaf people=s human rights.

It is important to note that sign language is a language in its own right, with its own grammar and syntax.

Sign language uses the modality of space, in contrast with the spoken language, which uses the modality of sound. It is also important to note that there are several regional variations of sign language in South Africa.

The DOD is compelled by the White Paper on an Integrated National Disability Strategy to develop strategies that will provide people with communication disabilities with equal opportunities for access to information, as well as services. The sign language course presented by the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg would ideally satisfy some of the prerequisites as stipulated in the INDS for people with communication disabilities.

The aim of the course is to equip DOD employees to communicate with deaf people they come into contact with regarding fundamental issues in the their vocation.

The methodology of the sign language course is based on the Functional Notional model of teaching a second (or third etc) language. This has been found, both nationally and internationally, to be one of the most effective teaching methodologies of second language instruction.

In order to equip DOD employees with the basic sign language skills required, a 6-week course is recommended. The course contents will focus on the Defence Force context and the vocabulary will be discussed as soon as the course details are finalised.

The above-mentioned sign language course will be held during the period 17 June 2003 to 25 July 2003. It is important to note that students are only required to attend classes at the Wits Language School on the 1^st and 6^th week of the course.

During weeks 2 to 5 (experiential training) students will only get homework and assignments and do not have to attend classes. During these 4 weeks students will still be able to attend to their duties at work.

The cost per student is R3300, 00, which includes a video based on the defence environment, manuals and a R363,64 consultation fee. This includes a visit to the DOD working environment by several of the sign language tutors during the course of the 4 weeks of experiential learning (weeks 2 B 5) and support material to each of the students for the 4 weeks of experiential learning. Services, Divisions and Formations are to budget for these course expenses, which are to be paid over to Wits University.

Nominations are awaited by interested members/employees from Services and Divisions.

Nominations must be fully motivated and must be approved by the applicable authorities. Nominations are to reach this Chief Directorate by no later than 17 April 2003.