Promoting Deaf Awareness

Promoting Deaf Awareness

UKZN’s Audiology Department hosted its annual Deaf Awareness Month Campaign on the Howard College campus.

The campaign was organised by final-year Audiology students under the guidance of Audiology lecturer Dr Zandile Shezi.

Deaf Awareness is a vital initiative aimed at educating the public about hearing loss, Deaf culture, sign language and advocating for the rights of the Deaf community.

Its core mission revolves around promoting inclusivity, effective communication, and equal opportunities for those with hearing impairments.

September was Deaf Awareness Month, also known as the National Month of the Deaf, in remembrance of the inaugural World Federation of the Deaf Congress in September 1951.

The UKZN event featured guest speakers who shared some of their personal journeys and experiences. Mr Xolani Sikhosana told his story of adapting to life with hearing loss, inspiring students to express a desire to learn sign language.

Another guest speaker, Ms Veliswa Ncogcantsi, who is a client of the UKZN Audiology Aural Rehabilitation Clinic, shared her feelings and experiences as a deaf person. Ncogcantsi thanked the organisers of the event, emphasising the importance of such gatherings in breaking down barriers and showing that people with hearing impairments can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her heartfelt speech earned her the endearing title of “A Legend”.

The principal of the KwaVulindlebe School for the Deaf, Ms NomathembaNdlovu, spoke about sign language and taught the audience some basic signs while explaining the nuances of South African Sign Language compared to English, emphasising the significance of early intervention for children with hearing loss.

A provincial leader of the Hi Hope organisation and an expert in Deaf culture, Ms Mala Perumal, addressed the audience on various communication modes, including Auralism, Total Communication, and Bilingual Bicultural. She stressed the importance of tailoring the mode of communication to each individual’s unique needs.

The event attracted more than 100 students who gained valuable insights into the Deaf community in South Africa. It also provided a platform for students to explore opportunities to support and interact with the Deaf community.

UKZN’s annual campaign was a resounding success, serving as a stepping stone towards greater awareness, understanding, and inclusivity for individuals with hearing impairments.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photographs: Supplied