yWhat is APSDA?z
It is often misunderstood that Deaf people can read written Bible as they can see. Actually, for the most of Deaf persons, spoken/written languages such as English are the second language as they cannot acquire those languages naturally. Deaf people have their own languages, sign languages which are true languages with unique structure and grammar and are different in different countries and regions.
It has been a long time dream for Deaf Christians to have Bible in their first language, in a sign language. In September 2009, Asia Sign Language Translation Association(ASTA) was formed to promote Sign Language Bible Translation(SLBT) in Asian countries. While ASTA was working on SLBT work, it was noticed that many countries in Asia are still behind in community development especially in the field of sign language and education. ASTA decided to expand its wing in works for community development focusing on sign language and education.
On 24 and 25 November 2011, participants from 12 countries including Australia and New Zealand attended a set up meeting in South Korea. After two full days of discussion, Asia Pacific Sign Language Development Association (APSDA) was formally established on 25 November 2011.
