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Translating Online Audio Content to Kenya Sign Language with Artificial Intelligence for Training of Hearing-impaired TVET Trainers in Kenya
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Abstract
The digital transformation of education has created new opportunities and challenges for inclusive learning in Kenya. The hearing-impaired community, which relies on Kenya Sign Language (KSL), remains marginalised in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) due to a lack of accessible digital resources and trained special needs educators. This research presents findings from a comprehensive study of 74 hearing and hearingimpaired TVET trainers. It proposes the design and development of an AI-driven system for translating online audio content into KSL. The proposed AI system integrates speech recognition, natural language processing, and KSL animation to enable real-time translation of educational materials. The study reveals that 51.36% of trainers face significant challenges, including limited access to KSL interpreters (51.35%), inaccessible learning materials (50%), and inadequate infrastructure (36.49%). Results show that 89.19% of respondents believe AI-based KSL translation tools would significantly enhance TVET training programmes. The project focuses on capacity building for TVET trainers having hearing impairment whilst addressing the critical gap between policy and practice in inclusive education.
PCF11 Plus: Beyond the Forum
Sub-Theme: Changing mindsets for inclusive open education
Paper ID: 2533
Subjects: Kenya Sign Language; AI Translation; Speech Recognition; Natural Language Processing; Special Needs Education; Inclusive Education
Country
Kenya
Region
Africa
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Date
2025-09
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Publisher
Commonwealth of Learning (COL)