Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, Professor Upali Pannilage, stated that sign language can be considered a universal language and is easier to learn compared to mastering several spoken languages.
He made these remarks at a certificate awarding ceremony held today at the Ministry premises for public sector employees in the Colombo District who successfully completed a sign language course. The programme was conducted by the National Secretariat for Persons with Disabilities.
The Minister emphasized that the initiative plays a vital role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of public services provided to individuals with hearing impairments.
He further noted that there are plans to expand the training programme to cover all districts across the island in 2026.
Professor Pannilage also highlighted that such programmes contribute towards building an inclusive society where persons with disabilities are treated equally and are able to achieve social and economic well-being.
