In partnership with @UCC_Official and @UNADeaf, @8TechConsults recently conducted a needs assessment under the “Digitisation and Standardisation of Uganda Sign Language and Digital Inclusion of the Deaf Community in Uganda” project across the country. The assessment examined current use and accessibility of Uganda Sign Language, identified gaps and barriers faced by Deaf community in Uganda, in accessing information and digital services across the Health, Education, Justice and Policy sectors. Key findings revealed 3 critical gaps: 1️⃣ Many healthcare workers lack Uganda Sign Language skills, creating communication difficulties when Deaf persons seek medical attention. This limits effective interaction between patients and health professionals. 2️⃣ Despite policies supporting the education of learners with disabilities, many teachers lack the sign language skills needed to support Deaf learners. The assessment also revealed limited exposure to assistive technologies among some learners, alongside stigma and low community awareness that continue to affect educational access and participation. 3️⃣ The absence of a national standard for Uganda Sign Language remains a key challenge, raising concerns about consistent language use, recognition and protection across institutions and communities. 🤔 What needs to change? 🟢Integration of sign language into secondary and tertiary education, health-related, social work and Police programmes 🟢Equipping teachers with sign language skills and introducing basic signing in schools from an early age 🟢Strengthening the legal and regulatory framework for the standardisation and protection of Uganda Sign Language 🟢Sustained community sensitisation to address stigma and promote inclusion “There should be deliberate efforts to train teachers in sign language so that Deaf learners are meaningfully included in the classroom,” an education stakeholder in Kapchorwa suggested. 📌Way forward? The insights gathered will inform efforts to develop standardised Uganda Sign Language resources and more accessible digital solutions, helping reduce communication barriers and improve Deaf persons’ access to essential information and digital services. #UGSLStandardisation #DeafInnovations #DeafInclusion

Opportunity grows when barriers to learning are removed. On day two of the International Week of Deaf People celebrations in Sembabule, the focus shifted from dialogue to action as we supported the installation of solar power equipment at Sembabule Church of Uganda Primary School, an inclusive institution that serves deaf learners. For many learners, a conducive learning environment can make all the difference. Reliable power will help create a better environment for learning, expand access to educational opportunities, and enable learners and teachers to thrive without the limitations of unreliable electricity. Watch this video for a look back at the impact, moments and partnerships that are helping unlock new possibilities for deaf learners in Sembabule. #MTNwithUNAD #IWDP2026 #DoingForTomorrowToday @mtnug @mtnmomoug

Inclusion goes beyond words. It begins with listening, understanding and collective action. On day one of the recently concluded International Week of Deaf People celebrations in Sembabule, we joined the Uganda National Association of the Deaf (UNAD) and other stakeholders for meaningful conversations on advancing inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for deaf persons. Held under the theme, “Declaring Deaf People's Human Rights: Innovations that Guarantee Access to Social Services and Empowerment,”the dialogue explored how innovation, collaboration, and advocacy can help break barriers and create a more inclusive society. 📽️Watch this video for a glimpse of the conversations, connections and shared commitment driving progress for the deaf community. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive. #MTNwithUNAD #IWDP2026 #DoingForTomorrowToday @mtnug @mtnmomoug

Day 1 of #IWDP2026 in Sembabule was about listening. Together with UNAD and other stakeholders, we heard from the Deaf community about the barriers they face and the changes that can make everyday services more accessible. Here’s how the day unfolded. 🎥 #MTNwithUNAD