Partnership revolutionises support for deaf communities

KARACHI: Ufone 4G has partnered with ConnectHear, Pakistan’s leading assistive technology startup, to enhance disaster response for deaf communities nationwide.

Supported by funding from the GSMA Innovation Fund for Humanitarian Challenges, this initiative harnesses AI-powered technologies to ensure deaf individuals receive life-saving information during emergencies like floods, earthquakes and other natural disasters.

The partnership will upgrade ConnectHear’s virtual interpretation services for low-connectivity environments and develop AI-powered systems that generate sign language alerts for emergency warnings. Ufone 4G’s extensive network, serving over 26 million subscribers, will disseminate these alerts, ensuring nationwide access. Additionally, Ufone will zero-rate the ConnectHear app, enabling free access to these critical services without a data package or mobile balance.

With over 10 million deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals in Pakistan, access to inclusive communication tools is critical. Climate-related disasters have significantly impacted the country, with over 30 million affected by floods in 2022 alone. Deaf individuals often face communication barriers, leaving them excluded from early warning systems.

“At Ufone 4G, inclusivity in disaster response is a priority,” said Group Chief Commercial Officer, PTCL & Ufone 4G Syed Atif Raza. “This partnership ensures real-time, AI-driven support for deaf communities, creating a safer Pakistan for everyone.”

Co-Founder of ConnectHear Arhum Ishtiaq added: “This collaboration empowers us to extend our AI solutions even in low-bandwidth settings, ensuring timely information for deaf communities.”Backed by GSMA’s funding and expertise, the initiative sets a global precedent for inclusive disaster preparedness, leveraging AI and mobile innovation to save lives.