Fijian Signs Language week began this week.

Organisers are aiming to raise public awareness increase their pool of interpreters.

At the opening of the Fijian Sign Language Week yesterday, Minister for Women Rosy Akbar said there is a real need to expand sign language training and awareness

“I’m aware of the need to support sign language training and i share the commitment of my ministry to work with you to expand the training, to make a difference to the people who are deaf. This initiative enables us to communicate better with our colleagues who are deaf. No way we can communicate with them without sign language.”

The theme for this year’s event is Strengthening Human Diversity.

The Fiji Association of the Deaf Vice president, Vani Cakau says they want to create more awareness and also attract people to learn the inclusive language skill

“This is important and we using this week as platform to raise awareness to the public and other ministries and stake holders on the importance of sign language.”

The Association is hosting a number of activities throughout the week.