USAID Organizes Study Trip for Turkmen Sign Language Interpreters to Kazakhstan
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Government Improvement in Turkmenistan (GSP) program recently organized a study tour to Kazakhstan for six sign language interpreters from the Society of the Blind and Deaf of Turkmenistan (SBDT). This tour, which took place from April 12 to 22, aimed to enhance the skills and capacity of sign language interpreters in order to better serve people with hearing impairments in Turkmenistan.
In an effort to promote inclusivity and accessibility in all sectors, USAID GSP collaborated with OSGT to introduce new sign language interpreting services in June 2023. Since then, seven sign language interpreters have been providing their services to facilitate communication between individuals with hearing impairments and government agencies across the country.
The impact of these services has been significant, as hundreds of people with hearing impairments have been able to navigate issues related to paperwork, education, employment, and travel, among others. Furthermore, interpreters have been offering free consultations to over 70 stakeholders, thereby enhancing the overall proficiency of sign language among the general population.
Recognizing the crucial role of sign language interpreters, USAID GSP continued its support by organizing an exchange program with the Zhasnur Public Association of the Deaf in Kazakhstan. During this program, interpreters from Turkmenistan received intensive training in various aspects of sign language, enabling them to improve their skills and techniques.
Participants of the study tour also had the opportunity to visit several local institutions in Astana, such as the Department of Employment and Social Protection of the Population, the Employment Center, and the NGO Social Technologies AST Astana. Through practical sessions and interactions with local representatives, interpreters honed their skills and gained valuable experience.
The new knowledge and skills acquired during the study tour will now be applied by the interpreters in their daily work in Turkmenistan, with a focus on sharing their learnings with their colleagues. This initiative underscores USAID’s commitment to supporting the Government of Turkmenistan in promoting equal opportunities and inclusion for all members of society.
Photo: USAID
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