In 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially recognised South African Sign Language as South Africa’s 12th official language. That means it has equal legal status to the country’s other official languages, and people have the right to use South African Sign Language in government business, like court proceedings. More importantly, though, learning other languages like South African Sign Language is a way for us to connect with our fellow South Africans and celebrate the diversity that makes us the Rainbow Nation.
What is South African Sign Language?
South African Sign Language is an indigenous language that’s different to other sign languages around the world. It has its own distinct grammar and words that you won’t find in other languages.
If you want to learn in your own time, online is a good place to start. Here’s where to learn South African Sign Language online.
1. South African Sign Language Dictionary
App: Learnsasl.com
This video dictionary app is free to download from the Apple App Store and the Google Play store. Even with the free version, you can browse thousands of English words, and the app will show you a video of the word in South African Sign Language – you can adjust the video speed so you can practise. Once you’ve started learning, there are games to test your knowledge.
2. DTV South African Sign Language Lessons
YouTube: @DeaftvCoZa
DeafTV SA was created as a magazine-style TV programme for South African youth who are deaf or hard of hearing. It was way ahead of its time and caught the attention of international production companies, inspiring similar programmes in other countries. In addition to its entertainment content, it’s also educational. The DeafTV YouTube channel has more than 100 short lessons in conversational South African Sign Language that you can watch and study for free.
3. SA Sign Language Tutor
TikTok: @MontsoMRSA
For quick conversational phrases you can learn and use immediately, follow South African Sign Language tutor Khomotso Maluleke Skhosana. She posts beginner tutorials on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube – including phrases requested by her followers. Her signing is slow and easy to follow, so it’s a good option if you’ve never learnt any kind of sign language before.
4. Basical SASL Vocabulary Kit
eBook: Wits.ac.za
Free to download, this eBook by the Centre of Deaf Studies and Hi Hopes at Wits University contains South African Sign Language translations from English, isiZulu and Afrikaans. It includes the alphabet, numbers, useful vocabulary for different situations and basic conversations.
5. DEAFinition
Online course: Deafinition.co.za
The best way to learn a language is to take a course. DEAFinition offers an online course that you can do in your own time. In addition to beginner-level South African Sign Language, you’ll also get an introduction to deaf culture, including dos and don’ts to help you avoid making awkward mistakes or inadvertently offending someone.
You don’t have to be fluent before you start signing. Start with a few basic South African Sign Language words or phrases and build from there. Learning online requires a fast and secure internet connection. Check out these Vodacom Fibre deals to make your learning experience smoother.
