Nepal country report

We have a interpreter association in Nepal called NASLI. The deaf population there is no exact data is available, but estimated is 192.000 deaf people, of which are 5000 deaf sign language users.

The deaf association (NFDH) say that there are 700.000 deaf people and approx. 15.000 sign language users.  The deaf association (NFDH) was established in 1995. We have approx. 60 sign language interpreters. Currently a census is conducted in Nepal which we hope will give us exact data.

There is no training for interpreters. There are 20 interpreters working for the deaf association working as an interpreter and also admin tasks are carried.

There are 20 deaf schools, 10 are run by the deaf association.

Six years ago a committee was established by the deaf association, but this did not work out. In July 2010 a UK trainer came to train the interpreters in Kathmandu.

We have a good cooperation with the deaf association. It was first established under the deaf association. The interpreter organisation is now officially registered.

We are now in the process of getting sign language recognised and to develop a professional code of conduct. We hope this will be signed by the deaf association as well. In addition, we would like to establish a two year training.