27 June 2005: No 34/05

BEGINNERS’ SIGN LANGUAGE COURSE FOR DOD EMPLOYEES AT SA NAVAL MESS IN PRETORIA

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 their 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 Tshwane Sign Language Centre at the SA Naval Mess in Pretoria 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 with the means to communicate with deaf people with whom they come into contact. This is a fundamental issue.

In order to equip DOD employees with the basic sign language skills required, a 1-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 18 - 22 July 2005. It is important to note that intensive training means that students are required to attend classes every day. 

After starting with the course, students are encouraged to watch Signed News broadcast each night, the Deaf TV programme on Sundays as well as to make contact with a deaf person (if possible) in their area to enhance their sign language skill naturally.

The cost per student is R1300, 00, for 5 days, which includes the study material, examination fee, Sign Language Tutorial CD and Certificate. Course expenses should be paid over to Tshwane Sign Language Centre on the day of registration.

Nominations are awaited by interested members or employees from Services and Divisions and must be fully motivated and approved by the applicable authorities. 

Students outside the Gauteng area must arrange their own accommodation. Nominations are to reach this Chief Directorate by no later than 8 July 2005.

Enquiries: Ms A.E. Snyman, tel (012) 355-5276 or Ms R.A. Hlabela (012) 355-5283, fax (012) 355-6259.