An AI-powered sign language interpreter and support system has been introduced in Pakistan to improve access to information for deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

The system, called Suno, is part of a wider AI accessibility project developed by Pakistani organisation ConnectHear in collaboration with Ufone.

The technology is designed to convert spoken communication and important announcements into Pakistani Sign Language, allowing people with hearing difficulties to understand information in a more accessible format.

Focus on emergencies

Suno was initially designed with natural disasters and emergency situations in mind. The system could help deliver timely warnings to deaf people during floods, earthquakes and other emergencies.

This is particularly important because many emergency alerts are traditionally delivered through audio announcements, which can leave people with hearing disabilities without critical information.

By combining artificial intelligence with sign language, the project aims to reduce this communication gap and improve access to potentially life-saving information.

Wider accessibility goals

The initiative could also have applications beyond emergencies. AI-based sign language technology may help improve accessibility in education, workplaces, public services and digital platforms.

The project reflects growing efforts to use technology to make essential information available to people with different accessibility needs.

ConnectHear is also working on combining AI technology with human expertise to develop more inclusive solutions for people with disabilities.

If successfully expanded, systems such as Suno could provide a new way for organisations to communicate directly with Pakistan's deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

The initiative highlights how locally developed AI solutions could play a growing role in improving digital inclusion and ensuring that important public information reaches a wider section of society.