Handlab

04/06/2026

Handlab was proud to attend and present at the successful conference hosted by South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLAR) on 29 May 2026.

The workshop brought together members of the Deaf community, researchers, educators, technology developers, language practitioners, and key stakeholders to explore the future of SASL in digital spaces and the advancement of South Africa’s newest official language through technology and innovation.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to these important discussions. Together, we can build a more inclusive and accessible future for all.

National Institute for the Deaf - Worcester, South Africa Employ and Empower Deaf -Pty Ltd Stellenbosch University SociGo Stellenbosch University Language Centre

03/06/2026

📚 Wordless books are powerful tools for building literacy and learning.

Book Dash's wordless books in SASL encourage conversation, spark imagination, and help children develop critical thinking, comprehension, creativity, and language skills without text.

They introduce new SASL vocabulary that children and caregivers / parents can use to create and share their own stories together.

👉 Visit www.bookdash.org, go to the Books page, filter for wordless stories and find the SASL versions.

Enjoy sharing and creating your own story together! 💛

29/05/2026

Come and watch to the SASL Digital Workshop happening now till 3pm.

Join livestream, see details below.

The South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR), in collaboration with its Child Language Development node at Stellenbosch University, will...

29/05/2026

📚 It’s the last Friday of the month, which means it’s time for our Book of the Month: Catch That Cat! 📚

A sneaky cat has stolen my sock! Come with me and my dog as we try to catch that cat. Do you want to go on an adventure?

Watch the full story in SASL created by Book Dash - a special storytelling by Yuvini Gounden and edited by the Handlab team.

https://youtu.be/87uDhD0LXRg

This is the South African Sign Language (SASL) translation of the o...

29/05/2026

Here is friendly reminder to join the workshop today - don't miss out!

Discussions will focus on initiatives such as a planned SASL sign bank, digital resource inventory, learner management systems, and the inclusion of SASL in the African Wordnet project.

This collaborative event by SADiLaR and Stellenbosch University brings together members of the Deaf community, researchers, educators, technology developers, language practitioners, and key stakeholders to help shape the digital future of SASL.

💻 Virtual attendance (open to all)
🔗Register here: https://bit.ly/4thCnUf

22/05/2026

📰 Stay informed in SASL with EyeBuzz! ✨

The Wits Centre for Deaf Studies proudly brings you EyeBuzz - current affairs presented in South African Sign Language (SASL), making news and important conversations more accessible to the Deaf community.

Stay connected, stay informed, and experience current affairs in a language that speaks to you. 🤟🏽

EyeBuzz at the Wits Centre for Deaf Studies brings you current affairs in South African Sign Language

22/05/2026

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to become a trained South African Sign Language (SASL) trainer! 🤟

This fully funded short course, presented by Deaf education specialist Ingrid Parkin and the Stellenbosch University Language Centre, is designed for Deaf SASL users who want to teach others SASL.

🗓️ Course dates: 8 September – 3 December 2026
📝 Apply by: 25 August 2026

21/05/2026

South African Sign Language (SASL) is taking centre stage in conversations around digital inclusion, accessibility, and language technology.

The upcoming SASL in Digital Spaces event, hosted by SADiLaR and Stellenbosch University, brings together the Deaf community, researchers, educators, and technology developers to help shape the future of SASL in digital spaces.

Read the full media release here:
https://sadilar.org/en/south-african-sign-language-dissemination-event-promoting-inclusion-in-digital-spaces/

🤟 Join the conversation on SASL digital inclusion! The South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR), together with its Child Language Development node at Stellenbosch University, will host a South African Sign Language (SASL) dissemination event on 29 May 2026 — advancing accessibility, inclusion, and the visibility of the SASL community in digital spaces. 🌍💻

Be part of shaping a more inclusive digital future for all.

Read the full media release here: https://bit.ly/4wycn9U


Stellenbosch University Language Centre Stellenbosch University Handlab

20/05/2026

Ready to take the next step in your South African Sign Language (SASL) journey after completing your basic foundation course? 🤟

Join SASL Level A2 course!

Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your skills and meet the Deaf community halfway through meaningful communication and inclusion.

🗓️ Course dates: 6, 13, 20 and 27 August; 3, 10 and 17 September; and 1, 8 and 15 October 2026
📝 Apply by: 16 July 2026

🤝 Grow your ability to connect in a more inclusive and meaningful way.

The SOUTH AFRICAN SIGN LANGUAGE ELEMENTARY LEVEL A2 short course offered by the Stellenbosch University Language Centre is designed for learners who already have a basic foundation in SASL and are ready to take the next step towards confident, real-world communication.

This course focuses on building fluency in SASL through practical, everyday interactions. You will expand your vocabulary, improve your understanding, and develop the confidence to engage more naturally in conversations within the Deaf community and beyond.

Through interactive, in-person sessions, you will gain hands-on experience supported by interpreter guidance and additional online resources that reinforce your learning between classes.

📌 Strengthen your skills. Communicate with confidence. Contribute to inclusive spaces.

🗓️ Course dates: 6, 13, 20 and 27 August; 3, 10 and 17 September; and 1, 8 and 15 October

📍 On campus | 14:00 to 16:00

📝 Apply by 16 July 2026

👉 Apply now: https://forms.office.com/r/3Q6VPcxXgU

📘 More info: https://languagecentre.sun.ac.za/product/south-african-sign-language-elementary-level-a2/

📩 Questions? Contact Michelle Pieters at [email protected] or call 021 808 2812

20/05/2026

Join the conversation on SASL digital inclusion! 🤟

This collaborative event by SADiLaR (South African Centre for Digital Language Resources) and Stellenbosch University brings together members of the Deaf community, researchers, educators, technology developers, language practitioners, and key stakeholders to help shape the digital future of South African Sign Language (SASL).

Due to the incredible interest in our South African Sign Language (SASL) in Digital Spaces Workshop, we’re excited to announce that registration has been extended! 🎉

Haven’t secured your spot yet? There’s still time to join us!

See details below:
https://fb.watch/Hdr_c3Dwzj/