The Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare, in collaboration with various stakeholders, has launched an initiative to broaden access to sign language learning for children with hearing impairments at an early age.

Dubbed "Scaling Inclusive Early Learning with Deaf Children," the 33-month project aims to equip deaf children and their parents with sign language skills in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers, fostering better communication, inclusion, and long-term social and economic opportunities.

In Malawi, reports suggest that many deaf children struggle due to limited awareness, inadequate resources, and a lack of trained educators.

This initiative seeks to bridge these gaps, ensuring that deaf children receive the support they need to thrive in their education and future livelihoods, said gender and social welfare minister Halima Daudi.

Speaking at the launch in Lilongwe, Daudi emphasized the importance of early intervention, pledging to work closely with local leaders to identify children with hearing challenges and ensure they gain access to ECD schools.

"Failure to acquire sign language skills at an early age significantly affects the social and economic development of children with hearing impairments. This project is a strategic step toward fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities," she said.

Echoing her remarks, Betty Wisiki-Kalitera, senior manager for eKitabu Malawi, one of the project’s partners, underscored key challenges facing deaf children in Malawi, including limited equipment and a shortage of sign language interpreters.

The initiative is also being implemented in Kenya and Rwanda, reflecting a broader regional effort to improve educational access for deaf children across East and Southern Africa, said Kalitera.

Globally, early childhood education plays a critical role in shaping future learning and career opportunities, particularly for children with disabilities.

Experts emphasize that early exposure to sign language leads to better cognitive development, stronger social skills, and higher academic performance.