International Sign Language Day

 Report on Sign Language Session

Date: September 23, 2023

Facilitator: Ms. Nripa Devkota

Organized by: Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown

Session Coordinator: Mis. Reeva Khanal and Mr. Yogesh Khanal, General Member and Secretary, Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown

Introduction

On September 23, 2023, the Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown organized an insightful and educational session on Sign Language. The initiative was prompted by the recognition of the significant global deaf population, which exceeds 70 million, as reported by the World Federation of the Deaf. The event was thoughtfully scheduled on the occasion of the International Day of Sign Languages to raise awareness about the importance of sign language and to equip participants with basic sign language skills for improved communication with the deaf community.

Session Facilitator:

The session was facilitated by Ms. Nripa Devkota, a distinguished program coordinator at the International Development Institute and a proficient Sign Language Interpreter. Ms. Devkota's expertise and dedication to bridging communication gaps for the deaf community were instrumental in making this session a valuable learning experience.

Participants

The session garnered significant interest, with a total of 27 participants in attendance. Among these participants were both Rotaractors and non-Rotaractors, demonstrating the broader community's commitment to inclusivity and communication accessibility. Additionally, we were honored to have the presence of International Rotaractors from the Navi Mumbai Rotaract Club, enriching the session with diverse perspectives and experiences.

Session Highlights

The Sign Language session was meticulously structured to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of sign language interpretation. The session covered a range of essential topics, including:

1. Introduction to the Facilitator: Ms. Nripa Devkota commenced the session by introducing herself, sharing her background in sign language interpretation, and expressing her passion for facilitating communication for the deaf and hard of hearing.

2. Sign Language Overview: The session included a detailed explanation of the significance of sign language in facilitating communication for the deaf community. Participants were enlightened about the history, development, and importance of sign languages across the world.

3. Interactive Learning: The heart of the session lay in interactive learning, where participants were engaged in practical exercises to learn basic sign language gestures and expressions. The session encouraged active participation, enabling attendees to grasp essential sign language skills effectively.

4. Question and Answer Session: The session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment, allowing participants to seek clarification on sign language concepts, share their insights, and further deepen their understanding of this vital form of communication.

Long-term Significance

The knowledge and skills acquired during this session are not confined to the present moment; rather, they hold enduring value. Learning sign language is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and our dedication to fostering meaningful connections with the deaf community. As we continue to engage with diverse communities in the future, the skills gained from this session will prove invaluable in promoting accessibility and understanding.

Token of Appreciation

To express our gratitude and appreciation, Mr. Yogesh Khanal, Secretary of the Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown, presented a token of love and appreciation to Ms. Nripa Devkota for her exceptional contribution to the session.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sign Language session organized by the Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown on September 23, 2023, was a resounding success. It not only raised awareness about the importance of sign language but also equipped participants with valuable skills for effective communication with the deaf community. This session exemplified the club's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our members and the broader community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Nripa Devkota for her outstanding facilitation and to all participants for their active involvement and dedication to promoting accessible communication.

Duration: The session spanned approximately one and a half hours, encompassing the facilitator's introduction, sign language overview, interactive learning exercises, and the question-and-answer segment.

For further information or inquiries regarding this session, please do not hesitate to contact the Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown.

 

Sincerely, 

Rtr. Yogesh Khanal
Secretary
Rotaract Club of Lalitpur Midtown