The greatest challenge for the deaf community in Bhutan is the lack of certified sign language interpreters in public institutions, which hinders their ability to communicate their needs effectively. That could soon change. The Disabled People’s Organisation of Bhutan and the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf are training 11 Sign Language interpreters in Thimphu. Once certified, these interpreters assist the community by providing services as needed.
Nearly 7 per cent of Bhutan’s population lives with disabilities, with around 2 per cent experiencing hearing impairments.
In the absence of certified sign language interpreters in hospitals, schools, and courts, many people struggle to communicate their needs or defend their rights.
To help break these barriers and improve accessibility, a foundational course in sign language is underway at Changangkha Middle Secondary School.
Inside the classroom, a diverse group of Bhutanese, college graduates, journalists, a nurse, writers, and others, are learning to “speak” without words.
At the front, an interpreter from the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf demonstrates patiently: hands rise, fingers curve, palms shift, and expressions change, each gesture carrying meaning.
The trainees watch closely, mirroring her movements. Right now, they are learning the names of places.
They’ve learned the basics, the alphabet, and everyday expressions so far.
The group meets twice a week, every Monday and Thursday.
“We want people to undergo this course to produce interpreters. It’s not that we don’t already have interpreters; we do, but most of them are teachers who have other mandates. Through this course, we expect learners to step into the field as interpreters so that whenever deaf people need support at any kind of event, they can interpret for them and for the deaf community,” said Sushila Gurung, a teacher at the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf.
Participants say they are eager to aid the deaf community.
“I decided to join the training because I felt there was a part of the community I didn’t understand well. My husband is an artist, and he occasionally gives art training to people from Draktsho. That’s how I was introduced to the community. I realised there was a gap, as I couldn’t communicate or share my jokes with them. I love making people laugh, and that’s when I knew I needed to learn sign language,” said Yangday, a participant.
Another participant, Thukten Zangmo said, “I felt that learning sign language would allow me to contribute to society. From this training, I hope to at least learn the basics so I can help people in the future.”
Once the trainee completes the basics, they will be assessed and will proceed to the intermediate and then to the advanced stage.
The basic and intermediate courses will each run for three and a half months, while the advanced course will take four months.
By equipping more people with sign language skills, the initiative not only bridges communication gaps but also brings Bhutan a step closer to an inclusive society where no one is left unheard.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
