Ashray Akruti in Hyderabad initiates ‘My Sign Challenge’ to break sound barriers

The 'My Sign Challenge' initiative, conceived by the founder-director of Ashray Akruti, DPK Babu, aims to address communication barriers faced by hearing-impaired individuals by promoting sign language learning and awareness through social media.

The ‘My Sign Challenge’ initiative was born out of a deep understanding of the challenges the hearing-impaired, especially non-communicative individuals, face. DPK Babu, director of Ashray Akruti, observed the struggles of the hearing-impaired individuals in connecting with their families and in advancing in education and careers on account of a lack of understanding of sign language.

He says, “It is painful and challenging when communication barriers arise within families, particularly when some members are hearing-impaired and others are not. I have observed the preference of hearing-impaired individuals for the company of others who understand sign language to that of their parents and siblings. This situation can take an emotional toll on everyone. Feelings of isolation, frustration, and miscommunication can contribute to psychological issues.”

Addressing the communication gap between hearing-impaired individuals and their families requires a multi-faceted approach. Encouraging family members of the hearing-impaired to learn sign language was the first step. Taking this initiative beyond families, Babu, through the My Sign Challenge, aims to promote inclusiveness in society and facilitate better communication.

The My Sign Challenge was inaugurated on the World Day of Deaf on September 29, 2023, and Babu is keen on creating awareness and understanding ahead of this year’s commemoration.

Participants are encouraged to learn a sign, produce a video, and challenge a friend or family member to do the same, creating an awareness campaign on social media. Babu says, “The focus is on Indian Sign Language, which is specific to the culture of India and differs from international sign languages such as American Sign Language and British Sign Language.”

Where does one start? Babu suggests that participants visit Ashray Akruti branches or use online resources to learn sign language. After learning, they can post videos or content showcasing their newly acquired sign language skills on their common groups or social media platforms. The next step is to encourage their friends to take up the challenge and learn sign language, creating a chain of awareness and skill-sharing. This approach can make the learning process engaging and contribute to raising awareness about sign language.

Babu says the My Sign Challenge will be ongoing, with plans to enhance publicity and involve celebrities to increase momentum and awareness. Individuals interested in taking up the challenge can participate through corporate talks, events, or by being challenged by colleagues associated with the initiative.”