A Lithuanian MP proposes to include sign language as an elective subject in schools to promote the profession of sign language interpreters and to fulfill international human rights commitments.
A Lithuanian Member of Parliament has proposed that sign language should be included among the elective subjects taught in schools, underscoring its importance for enhancing awareness and skills related to the needs of the deaf community. The MP argues that this change could not only attract interest in the profession of sign language interpreters but also serve as a step towards fulfilling the country's commitments to international human rights standards in education. According to the explanatory note of the proposal, only a few Lithuanian sign language interpreters are trained each year, while the Social Security and Labor Ministry reports that approximately 6,600 people with hearing disabilities live in Lithuania.
The lack of available sign language interpreters presents significant challenges for individuals with hearing impairments, affecting their everyday lives and increasing their sense of isolation from the broader community. The document emphasizes that this situation exacerbates inequality and limits the opportunities for those with hearing disabilities, making it crucial to address the interpreter shortage comprehensively. The introduction of sign language courses in schools could serve as a pivotal step in reducing these disparities and fostering a more inclusive environment.
Education Minister Raminta PopovienΔ has expressed her support for the initiative, recognizing its potential benefits but also stressing the importance of evaluating the capabilities of schools and the existing workload on students. Her comments reflect a balanced approach to implementing such changes within the Lithuanian education system while considering the practical realities faced by educational institutions.
