Project Disability Inclusion Program

DEVELOPING CAMBODIAN SIGN LANGUAGE

To develop a comprehensive and recognized Cambodian sign language rooted in the local culture and based on the linguistic experience of deaf people. This project will be transferred to the Cambodian authorities by 2020.

Objective

To develop a comprehensive and recognized Cambodian Sign Language rooted in the local culture and based on the linguistic experience of deaf people living in local communities or studying in special schools operated by Krousar Thmey. To offer hearing-impaired people a proper medium of communication conducive to their improved access to education, to the job market, and to other services essential to day-to-day life in Cambodia.

The Project

The Sign Language committee was formed in 2013 due to the emergence of a Cambodian Sign Language through various organizations. Including both deaf and hearing members, the committee successfully developed the Khmer sign language and is now responsible for his improvement, adapting textbooks for each grade while circulating a specialized dictionary. In order to disseminate it to the deaf community of Cambodia, the committee will be in charge of the training of specialized teachers and interpreters. as well as to families and relatives of deaf students that have been identified. Simultaneously, members of the committee sign the news on two national television channels, TVK and Bayon TV, as well as other relevant programs, helping raise awareness and reach a broader audience. The committee’s premises are located at the Chbar Ampov school, which is also equipped with a laboratory and an audio room.