Good oral health is a right for all individuals, regardless of whether they have special needs. Individuals with special needs often face communication challenges due to their limitations. To address this issue, the Dental Hygiene Study Program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), held a sign language training session for 43 seventh-semester students enrolled in the Special Needs Children (ABK) course. The Sign Language Training was organized to prepare students to assist individuals with special needs who face communication barriers.
The training, held on November 5, 2024, in the KGA Classroom of the Soetatmi Suryo Building, featured two speakers: Riski Purna Adi, a teacher from the Indonesian Sign Language Center (Pusbisindo) DIY, and Restu Yumna Animasta. The event aimed to equip students with more inclusive communication skills, particularly for clients with hearing impairments.
Special Needs Children, such as those with hearing impairments or other physical limitations, often have difficulty cleaning their teeth independently. Therefore, they require special attention from healthcare professionals who are sensitive to their needs. Dr. Leny Pratiwi Arie Sandy, M.DSc., the instructor for the ABK course, expressed appreciation for this initiative. "This sign language training is very beneficial in enhancing students' skills when working with clients with special needs and supports the ABK course materials," she said.
Through this initiative, FKG UGM supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which targets health for all, including those with special needs, and Goal 4 (Quality Education), which ensures inclusive education and learning opportunities for students, preparing them to meet the diverse needs of society.
Contributor: Bekti Nur’aini | Author: Diva Luthfiana
