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A proposal that calls for providing sign language interpreters in schools and universities, without requiring them to hold a bachelor’s degree as long as they complete necessary training and certification programmes, is on MPs’ table during Parliament’s session on Tuesday.
The initiative, by Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee chairman and Strategic Thinking Bloc president MP Ahmed Al Salloom, seeks to enhance the rights of individuals with hearing disabilities and ensure their participation in academic environments.
It also seeks to address an alleged long-standing shortage of qualified sign language interpreters.
Mr Al Salloom highlighted the importance of the proposal in ensuring fair and equal educational opportunities for students with hearing impairments.
“Education is a fundamental right, and we must eliminate all barriers that prevent students from fully engaging in their learning environments,” he said. “By removing unnecessary academic restrictions on sign language interpreters, we can increase the availability of qualified professionals and create a more inclusive educational system.”
Education Minister Dr Mohammed Mubarak Juma pointed out ongoing efforts to support students with disabilities, in line with Article Five of Bahrain’s 2005 Education Law, which mandates educational inclusion.
He said 10 qualified teachers with bachelor’s degrees in special education were currently providing sign language interpretation for deaf students at the secondary and university levels.
“The recruitment process follows the Civil Service Commission’s regulations, which require candidates to hold a bachelor’s degree in specific fields such as learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, Down Syndrome, autism spectrum disorders or gifted education,” he said.
“In addition to employing sign language interpreters, the ministry provides assistive devices, facilitates exam accommodations and promotes awareness through social media campaigns and training programmes.”
Higher Education Council secretary general Dr Diana Al Jahrami reaffirmed commitment to supporting students with disabilities.
“International best practices require sign language interpreters in universities to hold at least a diploma or bachelor’s degree in education, along with certification in sign language interpretation,” she said.
“Additionally, interpreters should be proficient in academic terminology and capable of using digital tools to assist students effectively.
“Higher education institutions already hire qualified sign language interpreters to support students, guide them towards suitable academic paths, and help them develop essential skills.
“These institutions also offer sign language workshops and other resources to ensure an inclusive learning environment.”
Dr Al Jahrami clarified that the hiring process for sign language interpreters in public universities follows CSC’s regulations, while private universities adhere to Bahrain’s labour laws.
Parliament’s services committee, chaired by MP Jalila Al Sayed, reviewed the proposal and recommended its approval.
“By allowing trained sign language interpreters to work without a university degree requirement, we can bridge the communication divide and empower students with hearing impairments,” Ms Al Sayed said.
“Our priority is to ensure accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all learners.”
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