WCARS Project Forum: A Platform for Collaboration and Advocacy

Introduction

The WCARS Project Forum, held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast from April 18th to 22nd, 2024, served as a vital platform for fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic planning among the project’s participating countries. The forum brought together representatives from the four Target Deaf Associations (TDAs) of Niger, Mali, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire, along with WCARS board members, project staff, and representatives from the Danish Deaf Association.

Key Objectives

The primary objectives of the forum were to:
– Establish a common platform for information exchange, problem-solving, and decision-making
– Share the achievements and developments of WCARS Phase IV
– Create an experience-sharing platform among TDAs and the Board
– Strengthen links between deaf associations

Opening Ceremony and Participants

The forum commenced with an opening ceremony attended by journalists, government officials, and representatives from the Ivorian Ministry of Employment and Social Development. Presidents of the deaf associations from Togo, Niger, Côte d’Ivoire, and WCARS board members actively participated in the forum activities.

Presentations on Sign Language

Ms. Janne, a representative from the Danish Deaf Association, delivered insightful presentations on sign language, its users, and the importance of sign language dictionaries. She discussed the recognition process for sign language, highlighting the political influence and strategies involved. Ms. Janne also emphasized the role of the UNCRPD in promoting sign language rights and provided examples of countries that have achieved recognition for their sign languages.

Achievements of WCARS

The project coordinator, Felix Dare, presented the annual report of WCARS activities in the four beneficiary countries. He highlighted successful achievements while also acknowledging the challenges faced during implementation. The forum provided an opportunity for participants to share suggestions for improving future project implementation.

Advocacy and Training

Mr. Juventus delivered a keynote presentation on advocacy, focusing on key concepts such as the difference between advocacy and lobbying, key players, steps involved, and the essential role of deaf people in advocacy. Juventus emphasized the importance of official recognition of sign language through constitutional means or other legal mechanisms. He also highlighted the need for a Code of Ethics for sign language interpreters to ensure professional standards, confidentiality, and trust. WCARS outlined three advocacy objectives:
– Employment of deaf people: Raising awareness, promoting accessibility, and combating discrimination
– Education of deaf people: Ensuring access to quality education, teacher training, and bilingual education
– Promotion of sign language: Raising awareness, integrating it into policies, and training interpreters

Conclusion

The WCARS Project Forum was a valuable platform for fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic planning among the participating countries. By focusing on sign language, advocacy, and project achievements, the forum contributed to strengthening the capacity of deaf associations and promoting the rights of deaf individuals in West Africa.