The 21-day workshop brought together Deaf leaders, sign language experts, educators and government representatives from across Pakistan to review, standardize and document 1,500 Pakistan Sign Language signs for the development of a National Compendium of Standardized PSL Signs.

Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training, visited NISE during the workshop and appreciated the ongoing efforts towards the standardization and nationwide adoption of Pakistan Sign Language. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the linguistic rights of the Deaf community and promoting equal access to education, communication and public services.

Ms. Rabia Naseem Farooqui, Parliamentary Secretary for Federal Education and Professional Training, also visited the workshop and interacted with Deaf leaders and participating officials. She appreciated their contributions and participated in the photographic documentation of standardized signs, demonstrating the signs for Taleem (Education) and Quwwat (Strength).

A National Policy Dialogue on the Standardization and Nationwide Adoption of Pakistan Sign Language was also held at NISE on October 22, 2026, in collaboration with UNICEF Pakistan. The dialogue highlighted the importance of establishing a nationally recognized sign language framework, developing standardized educational resources and integrating Pakistan Sign Language into relevant education and accessibility policies.

The participants adopted a Joint Declaration recognizing NISE as the central federal institution for Pakistan Sign Language and supporting the finalization of the first volume of the National Compendium comprising 1,500 standardized signs.

The concluding activities of the workshop were attended by Dr. Adnan Riaz, a distinguished educationist and mentor of the Directorate  General of Special Education, and Ms. Nasreen Agahi, a respected teacher and one of the pioneers of PSL documentation at NISE since 1991. Their presence acknowledged the contributions of educators and experts who have supported the development of Pakistan Sign Language over the years.

Director General of Special Education, Syed Tauqeer Hussain Shah, highlighted the significance of the initiative in strengthening inclusive education and improving communication accessibility for persons with hearing impairments. The initiative aims to facilitate the development of standardized teaching materials, training resources and accessible communication services throughout Pakistan.

The workshop marked an important step towards the nationwide standardization of Pakistan Sign Language and reinforced DGSE's commitment to promoting the rights, dignity and meaningful inclusion of the Deaf community.