Project Title

Strengthening Deaf Education, Empowerment & Employment (Deaf-E3)

Funder

Gallaudet University (prime), United States Agency for International Development (USAID) grant

DDW’s Role

USAID Sub-Contract

DDW’s Partners

Nigerian National Association of the Deaf, Deaf Women Association of Nigeria, and Deaf Teachers Association of Nigeria, Deaf Nigerian communities, and Global Deaf Research Institute

Timeline

May 7, 2021 – May 6, 2024

Overview

The Strengthening Deaf Education, Empowerment & Employment (Deaf-E3) project, supported by USAID, aims to address the educational disparities and marginalization faced by deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind (D/HH/DB) children and youth in Nigeria. This project focuses on four key groups essential for advancing equitable basic education: (1) educational professionals, (2) D/HH/DB Nigerians, (3) Nigerian Sign Language interpreters, and (4) USAID and other development actors. Gallaudet University subcontracted DDW to provide capacity-building training to three and Deaf Nigerian communities and Deaf-led Nigerian organizations (Nigerian National Association of the Deaf, Deaf Women Association of Nigeria, and Deaf Teachers Association of Nigeria).

Our Approach

DDW supports Deaf Nigerian communities by focusing on three key areas:

Education: Conducted an organizational capacity assessment to evaluate the current capabilities of 3 Deaf-led organizations in Nigeria. This process included training and workshops to enhance leadership, advocacy, and community engagement skills, enabling Deaf leaders to more effectively support and advocate for their communities.

Health and Social Protection: Through the assessment, DDW identified organizational and community needs, providing tailored recommendations and resources to address gaps. Training sessions focused on enhancing self-advocacy, systemic change, and equitable inclusion, strengthening the organizations’ ability to protect and promote the health and social well-being of Deaf Nigerians.

Technology: Developed accessible tools and resources, emphasizing the use of technology in advocacy and organizational development. Training covered data collection, analysis, and project management, equipping 363 Deaf Nigerians with the skills to effectively use technology for advocacy and to improve their organizational operations.

Impact At-A-Glance

363 Deaf Nigerians were trained on capacity building and developed through a community needs assessment

24 Deaf Nigerians conducted 12 community workshops around in Nigeria.

3 Deaf-led organizations benefited

DETAIL

The crises that have impacted signing Deaf communities are often related to communication, accessibility, and social inclusion. Here are some types of challenging crises:

1. Health Crises:

Deaf people struggle to get health information in sign language and have limited access to health literacy, especially during medical emergencies.
There aren’t enough sign language interpreters in hospitals.

2. Economic Crises:

Deaf people face higher unemployment and financial difficulties.
Access to social services and financial aid can be limited.
Funding for Deaf organizations and education may decrease as they are not considered top priorities, unlike disability organizations that aim to “hit many birds with one stone.”

3. Human Rights Violations:

Deaf people are often excluded from decision-making and aid during global crises.
They face discrimination and lack legal protection.
Deaf individuals are at higher risk of violence and exploitation.

4. Technological Disruptions:

The digital divide makes it harder for Deaf people to access important information.
New technologies often lack sign language support and closed captioning.
Remote learning and work can be difficult due to limited internet access.