Strengthening Inclusion: Report on the 1st Deafblind International Asia Regional Conference 2025
Report on the 1st Deafblind International Asia Regional Conference 2025
Location: Pokhara, Nepal
Dates: March 1–3, 2025
1. Introduction
The 1st Deafblind International (DbI) Asia Regional Conference took place in Pokhara, Nepal, from March 1–3, 2025. This pioneering event brought together professionals, educators, advocates, and individuals with deafblindness to discuss accessibility, inclusive education, and employment opportunities for the deafblind community.
Organized by Deafblind International (DbI), a global organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with deafblindness, the conference was led by DbI President Mirko Baur. Key contributors included Sunil Abbas and Dr. Namita Jacob, who, despite being unable to attend, played a crucial role in facilitating Sunil Abbas’ participation.
Sunil Abbas attended with Aswathy Vinod as his tactile ISL interpreter, while Zamir Dhale presented at the conference, supported by interpreter Amaresh Gopalkrishna.
2. Conference Overview
The conference featured interactive sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration among diverse attendees. Despite challenges due to flight cancellations caused by fog on February 28, many participants adapted by undertaking a 10-hour bus journey to Pokhara.
Participants represented multiple countries, including Thailand, Japan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and India (with delegates from Assam and Kolkata), contributing to a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.
3. Inclusion & Accessibility
Accessibility was a top priority, ensuring full participation for individuals with deafblindness. Key accessibility measures included:
• Multilingual interpretation (English-Nepali, Japanese-English)
• Sign language interpretation (Nepalese, Japanese, and Indian Sign Languages)
• Tactile sign language interpretation for Deafblind attendees
• Personalized voice-over support for visually impaired participants
• Guides and mobility assistance for blind and visually impaired attendees
These efforts ensured an inclusive experience for all.
4. Conference Sessions & Key Discussions
Over three days, the conference featured:
• Panel Discussions on accessibility, inclusive education, and employment for individuals with deafblindness.
• Workshops on best practices in education and rehabilitation for those with dual sensory impairments.
• Research Presentations showcasing the latest advancements in technology for the deafblind community.
• Evening Meetings focusing on the formation of an Asian DeafBlind Network to strengthen regional advocacy efforts.
A major highlight was Sunil Abbas’ tactile sign language training session, where he introduced Tactile Indian Sign Language (TISL). The session sparked significant interest, particularly among members of the Deafblind Asia Network (DAN) and Deafblind professionals, emphasizing the need for more such training opportunities.
5. Awards & Recognitions
During the gala dinner, the DbI Awards recognized individuals for their outstanding contributions:
• Distinguished Service Award: Dr. Namita Jacob (Chetana Charitable Trust, India) & Sunil Abbas (SEDB, India)
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Graciela Ferioli (Argentina)
These honors highlighted their dedication to the deafblind community.
6. Networking & Future Collaborations
The conference served as a catalyst for strengthening connections and fostering future collaborations. One key outcome was the proposal to establish an Asian Network for Deafblind Individuals, aimed at promoting advocacy, information sharing, and resource mobilization across the region.
7. Conclusion
The 1st Deafblind International Asia Regional Conference was a landmark event, driving discussions on inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for the deafblind community.
The introduction of tactile sign language training proved particularly impactful, highlighting the growing demand for such educational initiatives. The overwhelming enthusiasm for further training underscores the need for sustained efforts toward a more inclusive and accessible future for individuals with dual sensory impairments.
This conference has left a lasting impact, paving the way for continued advocacy and collaboration across Asia.
