PANAJI: The International Week of Deaf People 2025, themed “SIGN · SMILE · SHINE”, was celebrated at Novotel Goa, Candolim, through a day-long programme organised by Goa University’s Social Work Department in collaboration with the Goa Association of the Deaf and other institutions.
About 50 Deaf children and youth took part in activities including games, workshops, and an awareness session on Indian Sign Language (ISL) for hotel staff. Novotel chefs also conducted a bakery workshop, while children explored different hotel departments. ISL interpreters ensured smooth communication throughout.
Prasad Joshi, Secretary of the Goa Association of the Deaf, said the event recognised Deaf identity and inclusion. Udhayan Damodharan of Novotel added that learning ISL showed how inclusion strengthens hospitality. The event, coordinated by Goa University faculty and MSW students, concluded with a group photograph and a call to keep inclusion and language access central to such initiatives.
