Sign language interpreters boost services during Covid-19 pandemic |11 March 2021

The interactive screen set-up

Many viewers recalled and appreciated  the presence of Seychellois sign language interpreters in press conferences sometimes back and when the Covid-19 pandemic began,  but unfortunately since wearing masks became  compulsory interpreters have not been able to perform because sign language depends not only on hand signs but also visual expressions.    Anita Gardner, chairperson of the Seychellois sign language interpreter association, said travel restrictions also made it impossible for interpreters to travel to other islands to work.

But to continue to ensure deaf people do not miss out on important news events, Ms Gardner said interpreters are recording them before disseminating to the community via Facebook or Whatsapp. “Since we have started the programme we have had some very positive responses from the deaf community, but it remains a challenge to reach a small minority of deaf people who do not have access to a phone so we try to reach them through their family members,” Ms Gardner says.

She also added that they decided to purchase an interactive screen. This made it easy for deaf people and service providers to contact us directly via video conferencing when there is an issue. This mode of work also minimises physical contact and the need for travel, Ms Gardner pointed out.

Ms Gardner noted that sign language interpreters are in great demand in Seychelles especially in the media. The association is therefore launching an appeal for any person interested to learn and eventually make a career in sign language to visit their office situated at the ex-Maritime School, Mont Fleuri or to call 2749791 during working hours for more information.

Seychelles currently boasts three sign language interpreters and they are specially trained professionals whose job is to convey the messages of people who do not share the same language, culture, or mode of communication. The purpose of providing an interpreter is to allow hearing, deaf and hard of hearing people equal access to information and interactions.

Members of the association take the opportunity to thank the government for funding the interactive screen and also Cable & Wireless for setting up the internet connection and offering free service to the association. 

Contributed