Group Photo of Session Participants and resource persons from DEP and APCD.

Ms. Noppharat Bunnak, APCD Disability Inclusive Business’s Accounting Officer, demonstrated daily routine sign language.

Participants practiced Thai Sign Language the daily lives words actively in the session.

APCD, in collaboration with DEP conducted Sign Language Session for UNESCO Staff, at UNESCO Regional Office, Bangkok

On 10 September 2026, the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), in partnership with Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) and UNESCO Bangkok Office, organized a short session on Sign Language in commemoration of International Day of Sign Languages at UNESCO Office. Participants included twelve diverse UNESCO Staff. Session facilitators consist of Ms. Prim Kaewpradub, International Relations Officer and Mr. Warit Payaksiri, Assistant International Relations Officer from DEP as well as Ms. Noppharat Bunnak, Accounting Officer, Disability-Inclusive Business and Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol Networking & Collaboration Officer from APCD.

This session provides a comprehensive guide aimed at fostering inclusivity, awareness, and better communication within the workplace and broader community. The session opens by introducing Deaf Culture, exploring its distinct identity, core values, and community structure to build a foundation of empathy and cultural understanding. It then transitions into Challenges to Action, addressing common societal barriers, misconceptions, and practical steps organizations can take to create more accessible environments.

Participants are introduced to Basic Sign Language, gaining hands-on practice with practical signs designed for everyday interactions. To bridge theory and reality, the presentation features Lived Experiences, sharing personal narratives and real-world insights into the daily lives and perspectives of Deaf individuals. The session concludes with an interactive Q&A, offering an open space for participants to clarify doubts, discuss key takeaways, and engage directly with the material.

Participants showed active participation throughout the session, with many expressing a deeper understanding to advance inclusion.