Universitas Andalas Holds Sign Language Training to Strengthen an Inclusive Campus and Support SDG 4 and SDG 10

Universitas Andalas has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable education through a Basic Sign Language and disability awareness training organized by its Disability Services Unit (ULD). This initiative aligns with the university’s efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), which emphasizes inclusive and equitable quality education, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), which aims to reduce disparities and ensure equal access for all members of society.

The training was held at the Student Creativity Center Building, Universitas Andalas, Limau Manis Campus, Padang, on Saturday, June 8, 2024, and was attended by 30 participants consisting of students and staff members of Universitas Andalas. This marked the third Basic Sign Language training organized by ULD Universitas Andalas as part of its ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive campus environment for students with disabilities, especially deaf students.

Head of the Disability Services Unit of Universitas Andalas, Dr. Rozi Sastra Purna, M.Psi., Psikolog, explained that the purpose of the activity was to improve participants’ understanding and communication skills in interacting with deaf students on campus. Unlike previous trainings, this session not only provided instruction in Indonesian Sign Language (BISINDO), but also included disability awareness material to equip participants with a more comprehensive understanding of appropriate interaction with persons with disabilities.

The disability awareness session was delivered by Tiara Kurnia Putri Elwan, M.Psi., Psikolog, from APPI West Sumatra. During the session, participants were introduced to different types of disabilities, proper etiquette in assisting persons with disabilities, and effective communication tips. They were also encouraged to first identify the type of disability a person has, ask appropriately whether assistance is needed, be mindful of physical contact, think before speaking, avoid making assumptions about persons with disabilities, and always maintain a positive attitude while respecting their rights and independence.

Following the awareness session, the training continued with a session on Indonesian Sign Language (BISINDO), delivered by Universitas Andalas students who are deaf, Aldo Agustio and Friska Kurnia Rahman. This session was supported by Eka Pudji Astuti and a sign language interpreter from Universitas Andalas. Through this practical session, participants learned basic vocabulary and communication methods in sign language to facilitate interaction with deaf students within the campus environment.

Through this training, Universitas Andalas hopes that participants will strengthen their ability to communicate with deaf students and further promote an inclusive and just campus culture. The initiative is also in line with the vision of the Disability Services Unit of Universitas Andalas to become a dignified and equitable service unit for students with disabilities within the university. As such, this activity represents a concrete step toward realizing inclusive higher education and reducing social barriers for persons with disabilities, as envisioned in SDG 4 and SDG 10.