USAID Helps Turkmen Sign Language Interpreters Build Skills in Kazakhstan
The United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Governance Support Program (GSP) recently organized a study tour to Kazakhstan for six sign language interpreters from the Blind and Deaf Society of Turkmenistan (BDST). The tour, which took place from April 12 to 22, was designed to enhance the skills and capacity of the interpreters in order to provide improved sign language interpretation services for individuals with hearing impairments in Turkmenistan.
USAID GSP, in collaboration with BDST, initiated the Sign Language Interpretation Services in June 2023 to promote inclusivity and accessibility across all sectors. Seven sign language interpreters have since been providing interpretation services, facilitating communication between people with hearing impairments and government institutions in each province of Turkmenistan. Through these services, hundreds of individuals with hearing impairments have been able to navigate government procedures, pursue higher education, secure employment, and travel internationally. Additionally, the interpreters have extended their services by offering free consultations to over 70 interested individuals and improving the overall sign language proficiency among the general population.
To further support the interpreters, USAID GSP organized an exchange program with the Public Association of Deaf “Zhasnur” in Kazakhstan. During their visit, interpreters from all provinces of Turkmenistan received intensive training in various aspects of sign language, including dactylology, fingerprint writing, linguistics, translation theory, and practical techniques for different contexts such as television and online communication.
During the tour, participants had the opportunity to visit local institutions in Astana, including the Department of Employment and Social Protection, the Employment Center, and the NGO AST Astana Social Technologies. Through meetings with local representatives, they engaged in reverse translation exercises to gain valuable hands-on experience.
The interpreters will now apply their enhanced skills and knowledge in their daily work, sharing best practices with their colleagues in Turkmenistan to better serve the needs of individuals with hearing impairments. This initiative highlights USAID’s commitment to supporting the Government of Turkmenistan in promoting equal opportunities and engagement for all members of society.
