Muscat – A group of young Omanis has launched a volunteer initiative to promote sign language and support deaf people in an effort to strengthen inclusion and improve access to services.

Called ‘Sign Without Borders’, the initiative focuses on spreading sign language culture, raising public awareness about equality and encouraging the participation of deaf people in society. Organisers say the effort seeks to improve communication between deaf and hearing communities and reduce social isolation.

Founder Majed bin Hamad al Harthi said the project relies on volunteer work and personal efforts by members who cooperate with civil society and professional groups. Its goals include improving quality of life for deaf people and increasing community awareness of their needs.

He said sign language is the primary language of the deaf community and an essential tool for effective interaction. Learning it, he added, supports a deaf person’s sense of belonging and participation in society.

The initiative also uses digital platforms to spread basic sign language skills and to advocate equal access to public services. Since its launch, about 2,100 people have taken part.

Volunteer Badr bin Saleh al Maharbi said his experience learning sign language through the programme encouraged him to continue developing his skills as terminology evolves. He said progress becomes clear with regular practice and commitment to workshops.

Sessions are held every Monday for different levels, with learners assessed under the supervision of members of the deaf community. Some participants have moved on to teaching roles, which organisers see as a sign of impact.

Learners are encouraged to assist at public and official events and to provide interpretation for deaf people during exams, job interviews and lectures.

Maharbi said learning sign language allowed him to support others in meeting educational, professional and therapeutic needs. He added that the experience strengthened values of social responsibility, inclusion and respect for different forms of communication.

He said sign language draws on gestures and facial expressions used in daily life but requires learning clear rules and continuous practice, ideally through interaction with the deaf community. He said his ability to communicate confidently reflects the initiative’s aim of reducing isolation and promoting equal participation in society.