On the occasion of the International Day of Sign Languages, the Davao del Sur State College (DSSC) unequivocally reiterates its commitment to ensuring that education is accessible, inclusive, and transformational for everyone.  The presence of deaf students at the College serves as a poignant reminder that disability does not impede achievement, but rather presents a challenge to be conquered with effort, compassion, and support.  Last July of this year, eleven (11) deaf students marched in the graduation ceremonies, bearing their certificates and the aspiration that others like them can pursue higher education without the fear of exclusion.

For many of these students, DSSC has become a second home. They often say that they love the College because here, they feel better, accepted, and genuinely welcomed. Yet, beneath this sense of belonging lies a daily struggle. Communication, both with instructors and fellow students, remains a major challenge. It takes more time and patience to explain themselves, and often they have to endure moments when they feel left behind. Still, they persevere. They attend classes, join activities, and even embrace unique learning opportunities such as online classes and special programs that help them stay on track toward success.

In the face of discrimination, these students quietly carry their pain. They admitted that they often choose to ignore hurtful acts, to remain nonreactive and silent, even if inside they feel deeply wounded. Despite this, they continue to walk with dignity and courage. They also put forward a heartfelt recommendation that teachers undergo Filipino Sign Language (FSL) training so communication gaps can be bridged, and so that inclusivity is not only felt in spirit but also practiced in classrooms.

Some of them are now undergoing On-the-Job Training (OJT), where they are assigned tasks such as encoding, troubleshooting, and office support. In these spaces, they prove that they are just as capable and dependable as any other student, breaking stereotypes and showing that their skills can shine wherever they are placed. When asked if they are proud to be DSSCians, they answered without hesitation: “Yes!”

Instructors who work closely with them agree that more needs to be done. Only a few teachers know FSL, and many of them expressed full support for the students’ recommendation. For Mr. Carl Wayne Villarta, it is his pro-student principle that keeps him going; he wants to go beyond mere acceptance and truly engage with students, making them feel seen and valued. Meanwhile, Ms. Sherill Mae Joy L. Blanco, the College Diversity Equity Inclusivity Focal Person, shares her relationship with the students as something beyond professional; she considers them as friends, listens to them as they express their woes, joys, and offers them solace when they are in trouble.

Through their stories, inclusivity is more than simply a program or policy at DSSC. It is something that happens every day in the College's classrooms, halls, and offices. Their experience reminds us that education is not a privilege for a few people, but a right that everyone should have, regardless of their abilities.

The College remains committed to its mission as it still strives to offer high-quality and accessible education. DSSC strives to meet the increasing need of the people—to have higher education that is more inclusive, and ensure that each student has the opportunity to excel.

As DSSC celebrates the International Day of Sign Languages with the rest of the world, it celebrates the courage of its deaf students who take on all adversities with silent dignity and the purpose of their lives with unwavering optimism. They might not be heard in the most common sense, but their presence is quite revealing: each student, each story, each dream at DSSC is significant and worth fighting.

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