Empowering Deaf Children: Breaking Barriers

Raising Awareness for Deaf Children: Promoting Inclusion and Empowerment

Did you know that approximately one in 1000 children worldwide are born with significant hearing loss? These children face numerous challenges that affect their overall development and opportunities. In South Africa, one major hurdle is the limited access to quality education and specialized resources, leaving many deaf students at a disadvantage.

The lack of infrastructure, trained teachers, and inclusive learning materials in schools makes it difficult for deaf children to thrive. Additionally, the absence of widespread recognition and teaching of South African Sign Language (SASL) creates language barriers, hindering their ability to express themselves, comprehend academic content, and engage fully in social interactions.

Unfortunately, social stigma and discrimination often isolate and exclude deaf children, preventing them from participating fully in mainstream society. This situation calls for comprehensive efforts to address these challenges, including improved educational support, increased awareness of deaf culture and rights, and the implementation of inclusive policies that promote equal opportunities for all children, regardless of their hearing abilities.

Understanding the Causes of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing loss in children can stem from various causes, which can be broadly classified into two types: congenital (present at birth) and acquired (developed after birth). Let’s explore some common causes:

Congenital Causes:

1. Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic mutations or conditions can contribute to hearing loss in children.
2. Infections: Maternal infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), or herpes, can impact the baby’s hearing.
3. Premature Birth: Babies born prematurely are at a higher risk of experiencing hearing loss.
4. Birth Complications: Difficulties during labor and delivery, like oxygen deprivation or trauma, can result in hearing loss.

Acquired Causes:

1. Chronic Ear Infections: Untreated or recurrent ear infections can damage the ear structures and lead to hearing loss.
2. Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises, such as loud music or industrial noise, can harm the delicate inner ear structures.
3. Head Trauma: Severe head injuries can affect the auditory system and cause hearing loss.
4. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as specific antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs, may have side effects that include hearing loss.

It’s important to note that each case of hearing loss is unique, with different causes and characteristics. A thorough evaluation by medical professionals is essential to determine the specific cause and recommend appropriate interventions for children with hearing loss.

Global Accessibility Awareness Day: Promoting Digital Inclusion

Recently observed, Global Accessibility Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of digital accessibility for approximately one billion people with disabilities worldwide. This international event brings together individuals, organizations, and companies to raise awareness, engage in activities, and initiate discussions about making the digital world more accessible.

iSchoolAfrica Education Trust’s Deaf Developers’ Programme

In partnership with iStore, Core Group, and GAAD, the iSchoolAfrica Education Trust has launched the Deaf Developers’ Programme. This initiative aims to equip deaf youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue successful and sustainable careers in technology.

The Deaf Developers’ Programme, funded by Core Group, iStore, and a grant from the South African Breweries Foundation (SABF), provides comprehensive training in iOS app development using Apple’s coding language, Swift. This skill is highly sought after in the job market, offering participants valuable employment prospects.

Considering that an estimated 10% of South Africa’s population is deaf or hard of hearing, and with 98% of persons with disabilities facing unemployment, this programme is a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and diverse tech workforce. Chelsea Williamson, iSchoolAfrica’s Disability Inclusion Manager, emphasizes that employing qualified deaf app developers and enables employers.