ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, announced that Pakistan Sign Language (PSL) will soon be standardized and fully integrated into the country’s curriculum, media, and public services.
Speaking at a national consultative meeting attended by provincial representatives, education experts, social workers, UNICEF, media professionals, and members of the deaf community, the minister stressed that sign language is not only a means of communication but also a language of identity, culture, and rights.
He said the government’s focus is to ensure equal access and inclusion for people with hearing impairments, and the standardization of PSL will serve as a milestone in this journey. Dr. Siddiqui highlighted that trained interpreters, uniform use in official platforms, and integration in public services are key goals of this initiative.
The minister also shared details of ongoing reforms in special education, including facilities for autism, improved nutrition programs, enrollment campaigns, upgraded rehabilitation centers, and the provision of digital books.
Announcing the creation of a National PSL Task Force, Dr. Siddiqui reaffirmed the government’s commitment to make sign language a visible and accessible part of education, media, and everyday life in Pakistan.
