The department of agriculture, rural development and environmental affairs (DARDEA), in partnership with the department of sports, arts, culture and recreation, hosted the Agricultural Terminology Development Workshop at Glen on Tuesday (21/7), aimed at improving workplace communication and advancing inclusion for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
During the engagement DARDEA director of strategic communications and information services, Moliehi Moeng, highlighted the significance of the initiative in creating a more accessible and inclusive working environment.
“The workshop will help break down communication barriers and empower Deaf and hard-of-hearing employees. Language is a vital part of human connection and plays a key role in ensuring that everyone can participate meaningfully in the workplace,” she said.
The workshop focused on the development and standardisation of South African Sign Language (SASL) terminology for commonly used workplace terms, particularly within areas such as human resources management, extension and advisory services, financial management and general administrative services.
Participants are working to create practical signs for frequently used concepts and workplace terminology to improve communication and understanding between hearing and deaf colleagues.
According to the department, the initiative is an important step towards promoting accessibility, inclusion and equal participation in the workplace.
While not all employees may be fluent in SASL, learning basic workplace signs can enable more direct and meaningful communication with Deaf communities, reducing the need for written communication or interpreters for every day.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
