In a major step toward bridging communication barriers, the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in partnership with UNICEF Sierra Leone, has unveiled the ‘Leh Wi Tok’ Sign Language App during a validation workshop held on October 29, 2025, at UNICEF’s Freetown office.
The event brought together educators, disability rights advocates, and tech innovators to test and refine the app — an interactive learning tool designed to make sign language more accessible to families, teachers, and persons with hearing and speech impairments.
Through hands-on sessions, participants explored the app’s user-friendly features, tested lessons, and offered valuable feedback to strengthen its design and usability.
DSTI Director, Jasper Sembie, emphasized that the initiative aligns with Sierra Leone’s vision for inclusive technology.
“This tool demonstrates how technology can serve as an equalizer by empowering persons with disabilities through accessible digital tools that foster learning and participation,” he stated.
Among the participants were teachers and pupils from the National School for the Deaf, representatives from One Family People, and members of the Freetown Sign Language Club — all contributing firsthand experiences that will guide the app’s next development phase.
With UNICEF’s support, DSTI developed the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) version of ‘Leh Wi Tok’, which is now undergoing user testing. DSTI has pledged to provide free data access for participants during a two-week testing period to ensure smooth and comprehensive feedback.
The validation workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from DSTI to continue designing inclusive digital innovations that promote equality, learning, and active participation for every Sierra Leonean.
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