Bahrain Television to introduce the use of sign language in prime time news

Manama: Bahrain Television is to introduce the use of sign language in prime time news for the hearing-impaired people, the culture and information minister said.

"Bahrain Radio and Television Corporation (BRTC) will introduce sign language in the main news as part of the plan to enhance its programmes," Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammad Al Khalifa.

"The corporation will coordinate with competent civil society organizations on the issue," she said on Monday.

Lawmaker Muneera Bin Hindi, member of the Consultative (Shura) Council, had asked the minister to explain what the state-owned television channel was doing for a better integration of hearing-impaired people.

"BRTC will also use sign language to accompany the live coverage of the Friday sermons," the minister said.

Bahrain TV broadcasts live the sermon from Al Fateh Mosque, the largest mosque in the country.

Wheelchair-bound Bin Hindi has repeatedly called for official and popular moves to boost the integration of the handicapped in society.

Last year, Sharifa Al Malki, head of the Friendship Society for the Blind women's committee, said that work opportunities for disabled women were becoming increasingly rare in Bahrain despite being educated and undergoing training.

"We strongly encourage all companies to look towards employing the disabled, not because they are needy, but because they are strong, capable workers who deserve a chance," she said.