Pakistan has introduced SILA, an artificial intelligence-based translator built specifically for people with hearing impairments, designed to deliver timely information and emergency warnings that could help save lives during crisis situations.
The initiative falls under the Sono Tech project, an inclusive early warning system intended to reach all citizens, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing. According to the British High Commissioner, the United Kingdom has provided direct support to the project as part of its broader commitment to inclusive emergency communication in Pakistan.
SILA itself was developed by ConnectHear, a technology company focused on accessibility solutions, working alongside support from GSMA Pakistan and telecom operator Ufone. The collaboration brought together technical expertise and telecom infrastructure to build a system capable of translating spoken or written information into accessible formats for deaf users in real time.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott personally demonstrated the technology at a deaf students’ facility, where she was taught how to use SILA by students at the Deaf Education and Welfare Association (DEWA). The visit highlighted the practical, hands-on nature of the tool, with students directly showcasing its interface and functionality to visiting officials.
At its core, the SILA project is designed to ensure deaf people receive timely, understandable information about emergencies, natural disasters, and other safety threats, allowing them to take appropriate protective action just as quickly as hearing citizens would through conventional audio alerts and announcements.
This launch reflects a growing focus on accessibility-driven technology within Pakistan’s broader digital and educational landscape, particularly for institutions and welfare organizations working with deaf and hard-of-hearing students. As adoption expands, SILA could become an important tool integrated into schools, welfare centers, and public emergency communication systems across the country.
STI Portal will continue reporting on inclusive education initiatives, assistive technology, and student welfare programs across Pakistan.
Assistive technology of this kind has long been requested by advocacy groups working with Pakistan’s deaf and hard-of-hearing community, who often face limited access to real-time interpretation in mainstream classrooms and public institutions. If successful, education authorities may consider expanding SILA’s rollout to additional cities and public-sector departments in future phases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SILA in Pakistan?
SILA is an AI-based translator introduced in Pakistan to help people with hearing impairments receive timely information and emergency warnings.
Who developed the SILA AI translator?
SILA was developed by technology company ConnectHear, with support from GSMA Pakistan and Ufone, under the UK-backed Sono Tech project.
What is the goal of the SILA project?
SILA aims to give deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens timely, understandable information about emergencies and natural disasters so they can take safety measures.