The third edition of the Meghalaya Sign Bank App was today launched during a function to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities titled, EMPOWERFEST 2.0 held at U Soso Tham auditorium.
The app provides users with a complete library of Meghalaya Sign Language signs and gestures for successful communication. It covers everything from everyday sentences to expert vocabulary.
Cerebral palsy adaptive chairs were also distributed during the programme organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the State Resource Centre on Disability Affairs.
Governor Chandrashekhar H Vijayashankar who attended the function in his address, commended the innovative initiatives such as the Adaptive Seating initiative, in which 25 specially designed chairs were gifted to specially abled people-a collaboration involving the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society, and the State Resource Centre on Disability Affairs.
He emphasized the importance of removing barriers—both physical and societal—ensuring that persons with disabilities can achieve their full potential.
Social Welfare minister Paul Lyngdoh also attended the programme.
The event also included a felicitation ceremony for the winners and runners-up of the EMPOWERFEST 2.0 competitions, highlighting their talents and contributions.
In South West Khasi Hills district, the celebration was organised by the office of the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) in collaboration with the District Sankalp Hub Empowerment of Women and District Legal Service Authority (DLSA), at Nativity Hall in Mawkyrwat.
The programme was held under the theme, ‘Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.’
DLSA Chief Legal Aid Defence Councel Nosmi Hahshah attended the function as the chief guest in the presence of DSWO E. Tariang.
In West Jaintia Hills, the celebration was held at Khadar Nor Secondary School, Shangpung organised by the Jan Vikas Samiti JVS in collaboration with the Hans Foundation, Kyrmen Foundation and the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).
A slogan competition, balloon race, blindfold penalty shoot and other games were the highlights of the day.
