By Tumelo Mokgonyana
The University of Limpopo Reakgona Disability Centre (RDC) recently hosted a Deaf Awareness Event on campus, promoting understanding of Deaf culture and South African Sign Language (SASL) among staff and students. The 1 hour 30-minute outdoor event, organized by the RDC’s Office of SASL Interpretation, aimed to teach the basics of sign language, highlight the experiences of Deaf students, and encourage inclusive communication.
Justice Phukubje, Director of the Reakgona Disability Centre, welcomed attendees, emphasizing that the event was not only about learning sign language but also about understanding Deaf culture, fostering empathy, and creating friendships. “This event helps make the University a welcoming environment for everyone. The best signer gets the best prize,” he said.
SASL interpreters Tshisikhawe Dzihvani and Shima Matlala lead the Deaf Awareness session at the University of Limpopo Reakgona Disability Centre. Photo by: Lesiba Nkawane
During the 45-minute SASL session, Tshisikhawe Dzihvani and Shima Matlala, South African Sign Language interpreters at the RDC, taught participants the basics of sign language, including numbers, days of the week, greetings, and simple sentences, like “What is your name?” and “Thank you for helping me.” Dzihvani highlighted the importance of proper lighting and direct eye contact when communicating with Deaf individuals.
The interactive session was followed by a competition to determine the best signer of the day. Winners received USB drives with sign language videos and hand models to aid practice. This engaging element made learning enjoyable and reinforced the skills participants had gained.
Deaf students Bongumusa Manana and Thanzielo Rembuluwani share their excitement and encourage peers to learn SASL. Photo by: Lesiba Nkawane
Deaf students shared their excitement about the event. Thanzielo Rembuluwani, a BA Media Studies student, encouraged peers to learn SASL to communicate and form friendships. Bongumusa Manana, a BEd Language and Life Orientation student, expressed gratitude for the recognition and support, noting that even lecturers were participating and learning.
Hearing students also found the event valuable. Masopoga Prudence and Mametja Grace, both BEd students, said they found sign language easy to learn and emphasized the importance of gaining these skills to interact meaningfully with the Deaf community.
The University of Limpopo Reakgona Disability Centre’s Deaf Awareness Event demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. As participants left with new skills and motivation to practice SASL, it was clear that the event had made a positive impact on campus life.
Winners of the signing competition celebrate with hand models. Photo by Lesiba Nkawane
