In Sudan, many deaf and hard-of-hearing people live without access to education, interpreters, or accessible communication. Ongoing war and insecurity make their daily lives even more difficult. Now, there is a remarkable initiative: the Comboni Missionaries are developing a new learning platform for sign language in Sudanese Arabic. This platform is designed to help hearing people learn sign language so they can communicate better with deaf individuals. At the same time, it strengthens the rights and visibility of the deaf community.
Why This Project Is So Important
- Many deaf people are excluded: In schools, families, and public institutions, awareness of sign language is often lacking. Deaf individuals are misunderstood or ignored.
- No professional support: Only a few sign language interpreters are trained, and many institutions do not know how to include deaf people.
- War makes everything worse: Since the outbreak of the civil war in 2023, life in Sudan has become dangerous. Vulnerable groups—especially deaf people—are among the most affected.
This initiative by the Comboni Missionaries addresses these issues directly by promoting inclusion, education, and respect.
How the Sign Language Platform Works
Spanish missionary Father Jorge Naranjo, head of Comboni College in Khartoum, explains:
- A website is being developed where people can learn sign language in Sudanese Arabic.
- The content includes videos, simple explanations, and learning materials.
- The platform is designed for teachers, families, students, social organizations, and anyone interested.
- Since September 30, 2025, the first video lessons have been recorded with a certified sign language interpreter from the Sudanese Deaf Association.
- The website will also allow users to contact accredited interpreters, making it easier for authorities, schools, and hospitals to work with deaf people.
Background: Comboni College and the War
- Comboni College was founded in 1929 and is located in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan.
- It is both a school and a university for Christian and Muslim students—a rare example of peaceful coexistence.
- In 2001, the Comboni College of Science & Technology (CCST) was established to combine modern education with social responsibility.
- Nearly half of the students are Muslim, many from crisis regions such as Darfur, the Nuba Mountains, or refugee families.
However, since the civil war began in 2023, much has been destroyed. School buildings have become battle zones. Classes now often take place online because many students have fled. Yet the school continues its efforts to provide education for everyone—including the deaf community.
Life of Deaf People in Sudan
- Many deaf people have no access to education because there are almost no accessible schools.
- Families often do not know how to communicate with deaf children.
- There are very few interpreters, and many people are unaware of their rights.
- In war zones such as El-Fasher in Darfur, people struggle for safety, food, and survival. Deaf people are especially vulnerable because they cannot hear warnings and receive information only with great difficulty.
Ideas and Suggestions for Better Support
- Introduce sign language in schools—not only for deaf students but also for hearing children.
- Support interpreter training—through online courses and international cooperation.
- Educate families—teach simple signs so deaf children are not isolated.
- Create safe spaces for deaf people—in churches, mosques, communities, or aid organizations.
- Inform international relief organizations—so that sign language interpreters are included in humanitarian missions.
Conclusion
The new sign language platform in Sudan is an important step toward inclusion. It shows that despite war and destruction, people still have the courage to fight for communication and human dignity. For deaf people, this project brings hope: they should no longer remain invisible, but be understood and respected.
The initiative of the Comboni Missionaries combines education, technology, and humanity—and can serve as a model for other countries.
