The Social Development and Human Security Ministry states that additional sign language interpreters will be employed to assist the 400,000 individuals with hearing impairments across the country.
Minister Varawut Silpa-archa stated that they can provide support when these individuals are undergoing medical treatment, facing challenges at their jobs, or seeking information or legal aid.
He mentioned that only 202 sign language interpreters are listed with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP). He also noted that this figure is insufficient to cover the needs.
He stated that there are 432,495 individuals who are hearing impaired, often needing support in educational institutions and healthcare facilities. To address this, the DEP plans to recruit additional staff for these roles over this year and the following one.
Mr. Varawut mentioned that the ministry intends to hire additional individuals who are hearing impaired for interpreter roles. This initiative aims to ensure accurate contextual translations and enhance the overall well-being of those facing auditory challenges. Currently, two institutions within the country support this effort; Ratchasuda College at Mahidol University delivers a four-year undergraduate program in sign language interpreting, whereas Suan Dusit University furnishes a year-long certification course in the same field.
The newest program is structured into three stages, with one key component being a brief phase involving a 135-hour training session in sign language aimed at social security employees.
Over the coming years, the DEP plans to test this approach by employing freelance interpreters as part of their team. These professionals will be tasked with working across the 77 Provincial Disability Service Centers throughout Thailand, receiving a monthly pay of 18,000 baht.
This fiscal year, the subcommittee for promoting sign language interpretation endorsed both Suan Dusit University and the National Association of the Deaf in Thailand (NADT) as evaluation centers for sign language interpreters. Meanwhile, the Deaf Thai Foundation will develop an examination to assess interpreting skills, according to Mr Varawut.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
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