The Mico: Leading the way in deaf education
Dear Editor,
As the world observed International Sign Language Day on September 23, The Mico University College (Mico) continues to proudly celebrate its pioneering role in advancing inclusive education in Jamaica. As the home of the accredited Bachelor of Education in Special Education with a concentration in deaf education, The Mico continues to set the standard for preparing highly skilled educators equipped to serve learners with hearing impairment.
In alignment with the Disabilities Act, 2014 the institution has consistently championed accessibility and equity in higher education. One of the most transformative steps has been the deliberate inclusion of sign language interpreters in classrooms, ensuring that students with hearing disabilities are able to engage meaningfully in the teaching and learning process. This initiative not only reflects a commitment to inclusivity but also reinforces the institution’s philosophy of preparing teachers who can meet the diverse needs of learners across Jamaica and beyond.
This vision has been realised through strong partnerships with national stakeholders. The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information and the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service have been instrumental in supporting these efforts. These collaborations were guided by the expertise and advocacy of myself and Dr Michele Meredith, head of the Department of Special Education, a trained deaf educator and former education officer. Our strategic engagement with the ministries has secured critical resources and training opportunities, reinforcing Mico’s leadership in the field.
The strides made are more than institutional achievements, they are symbols of national progress. By embedding deaf education into its academic framework, The Mico not only trains teachers but also promotes greater societal awareness of the rights, dignity, and potential of people with disabilities.
On International Sign Language Day, The Mico proudly reaffirmed its role as a beacon of inclusive education, honouring the rights of all learners, strengthening Jamaica’s education system, and giving voice, through sign, to those whose brilliance deserves to be heard.
Leroy Fearon
Lecturer
The Mico University College
leroyfearon85@gmail.com
