Mauritius Launches 1st Electronic Sign Language Dictionary, Pledges Reform

Mauritius has launched the first electronic dictionary for Mauritian Sign Language (MSL), a move hailed by officials as a significant step towards inclusivity. The new digital resource was unveiled at the School for the Deaf in Beau-Bassin, with Deputy Prime Minister Paul Bérenger and Minister of Social Integration, Social Security and National Solidarity, Ashok Subron, in attendance.

Government vows to eliminate discrimination

During the ceremony, Minister Subron emphasised the government’s commitment to tackling discrimination against people with disabilities.

He stated that the government intends to amend the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act to better serve the community.

The act, passed in April 2024, aims to promote equal opportunities and combat discrimination, with a focus on education, employment, and accessibility.

According to Subron, while the act is a positive step, associations feel there are still gaps that need to be addressed.

He said the bill would be submitted to Parliament once a consensus on the amendments is reached.

A socialist vision for an inclusive Mauritius

Minister Subron, who described himself as coming from a socialist background, said his actions are guided by a vision where every person’s essential needs are met, regardless of their abilities.

He praised the development of sign language and Mauritian Creole, noting they both demonstrate humanity’s innate capacity for communication.

He called the launch of the new dictionary a “great celebration” for Mauritius and for humanity itself.

Broader reforms underway

Deputy Prime Minister Bérenger assured attendees that the government would do all it could to support people with disabilities, despite a difficult economic climate.

Subron added that legislative reforms are underway, including proposed amendments to the 2024 law, and a radical overhaul of the disability pension system.

These reforms, he said, are part of the government’s humanist approach, which aims to make the system more efficient and ensure every Mauritian can “live fully and with dignity.”

International Sign Language Day celebration

The launch comes ahead of the International Day of Sign Languages on 23 September. The occasion will be marked by a series of training sessions for teachers at the Beau-Bassin School for the Deaf.

Subron also acknowledged the collaboration between his ministry and the Society for the Welfare of the Deaf in supporting the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Source: Le Mauricien