12th WFDRSA Youth Camp Opens in Goa as Asian Deaf Leaders Gather
- Event: 12th WFDRSA Youth Camp
- Location: Panaji, Goa
- Dates: October 5-9, 2026
- Participation: Delegates from 10 Asian nations
Young Deaf advocates from ten Asian nations have converged in Goa to build cross-border advocacy networks and push for stronger disability representation in public policy. Inaugurated on Monday, the 12th World Federation of the Deaf Regional Secretariat of Asia (WFDRSA) Youth Camp marks a major push toward empowering Deaf youth across the continent.
Running through October 9, the camp brings together participants from countries including South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Bhutan, and the Philippines. Sessions focus on leadership development, sign language preservation, employment equity, and practical strategies for engaging national governments on accessibility legislation.
The camp anchors a larger Deaf Asia regional assembly taking place in Goa from October 5 to 11. Over the weekend, the state will host four multilateral conferences, including the 38th WFDRSA Representative Meeting, the inaugural WFDRSA Women Section assembly, and the WASLI Asia Conference targeting professional interpreter development.
The week-long summit culminates on October 11 with an inclusive public run at Miramar Circle and a closing ceremony at Lok Bhavan. Organizers aim to leave behind enduring cross-border coalitions that can hold regional governments accountable to international accessibility and sign language standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WFDRSA Youth Camp in Goa?
The 12th WFDRSA Youth Camp is a five-day summit bringing together young Deaf leaders from across Asia to focus on leadership, sign language advocacy, and policy engagement.
Which countries are participating in the 12th WFDRSA Youth Camp?
Participants represent ten nations, including India, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Bhutan, Nepal, the Philippines, Mongolia, and Laos.
What other meetings are being held alongside the youth camp?
The schedule includes the 38th WFDRSA Representative Meeting, the 1st WFDRSA Women Section Meeting, and the WASLI Asia Conference for sign language interpreters.
Source
Press Information Bureau Release ID 2319241, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment · 2026-10-05
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