Can you imagine not being able to hear a single sound nor express yourself through speech? How would you ask for help, share your feelings or even tell someone what you need? Communication is the root of our existence as social beings. It connects us and helps us survive. Without it, life becomes painfully isolating. 

23 September is International Sign Language Day. The UN says that about 3 million people in Bangladesh are deaf or speech impaired, and for many of them and their families, sign language is the only way to communicate. Despite these numbers, a large portion of our population remains unaware that Bangladesh has its own sign language known as Bangla Sign Language (BdSL).

BdSL is not just a method of communication, it is a fully recognised language and it has a fascinating history as well. Bangali sign language is believed to have originated at the Calcutta Deaf and Dumb School, founded in 1893. Students there developed their own signing system, which was independent of the system in Delhi. 

From 1947 to 1971, large-scale migration happened in India and East Pakistan involving thousands of Deaf individuals, which kept the signing system alive. After the independence of Bangladesh, West Bengal Sign Language (WBSL) and Bangla Sign Language (BdSL) evolved separately into two distinct languages. The Government of Bangladesh officially recognised it on 1 February, 2009. Not only that but 7 February has been celebrated as Bangla Sign Language Day since 2013.

It is deeply disheartening that a language vital to millions and recognised by national platforms still does not get the respect it deserves. Moreover, the deaf community in Bangladesh still continues to face challenges in education, job opportunities and health care. 

Even in almost all hospitals, police stations, banks and schools, there are no permanent sign language interpreters. This lack of support often leaves deaf individuals unable to access essential services from medical care to justice and education. 

This is why every institution, whether educational or medical, should have trained sign language interpreters available. For this purpose, organisations can hire someone from the deaf community, fulfilling the necessity as well as providing an employment opportunity for the individual. 

While it may not be financially feasible for every organisation to hire a full-time interpreter, there is a simple solution – learning basic sign language. Most of us already know basic Hindi or English. So, why cannot we learn basic sign language, which is a language used by millions in Bangladesh. 

Sign language is not difficult or expensive to learn. One only needs a few hours of their time to master the basics. This can just be for necessity. But if anyone is interested, more advanced training can open doors to careers in education, media, NGOs and more for them. 

Where to learn sign language – 

1. Lead Academy: “Learn and Master Sign Language” – This comprehensive course covers vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure and the cultural context of sign language. Perfect for Bangali speakers and ideal for those who want to start with the basics and progress to mastery.

1. Course Fee: Tk500
2. Duration: 3 hours 56 minutes
3. Level: Beginner to Advanced
4. Enrolled Students: 101
5. Ghoori Learning Platform: “Sign Language Course” – This course is designed for beginners who wish to become professional interpreters. Completing it can greatly enhance your CV and career prospects in sectors like NGOs, news media and community services.

1. Course Fee: Tk500
2. Duration: 83 minutes
3. Enrolled Students: 1,002
4. Society of the Deaf & Sign Language Users (SDSL) – Offers similar structured training for anyone interested in learning sign language, focusing on practical communication skills and professional development.

On this International Day of Sign Language, let us pledge to create a world where no voice goes unheard simply because it is spoken through signs. Communication is a right, not a privilege. By learning and promoting Bangla sign language, we take a powerful step toward building a Bangladesh where everyone, hearing or deaf, can truly belong. 

Remember, all voices matter!