PTCL to Install ConnectHear’s AI-Powered Sign Language Accessibility Solution at Its Customer Centers

Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) has teamed up with ConnectHear, a pioneering Pakistani accessibility technology company, to install AI-powered sign language agent called SILA at PTCL's customer care centers in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. This initiative aligns with PTCL's dedication to providing a more inclusive and accessible customer experience, making their services accessible to customers with diverse abilities.

Through the SILA solution, Deaf customers can communicate their queries and requirements in sign language, engaging directly with customer service representatives without the need for a human interpreter. This development builds upon ConnectHear's ongoing collaboration with PTCL to enhance accessibility for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.

Amad Khan, PTCL's Chief Marketing Officer, expressed his appreciation for the partnership, stating that it has evolved significantly, moving from sensitizing and training customer-facing teams to leveraging technology to address accessibility barriers faced by the Deaf community. Khan emphasized the importance of connectivity enabling everyone to participate, stating that enhancing equitable accessibility through cutting-edge technologies is crucial for ensuring every customer can engage with the company with dignity and independence.

Azima Dhanjee, CEO and Co-founder of ConnectHear, highlighted the partnership's significance, stating that it demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained technology-driven action. The AI-powered sign language agent will bring sign language accessibility directly into the customer service environment, contributing towards a Pakistan where accessibility is embedded in everyday services.

This partnership has already resulted in impactful solutions for the Deaf community, such as SUNO – an AI-powered early warning system that delivers critical emergency alerts in Pakistani Sign Language through WhatsApp, ensuring the safety of the Deaf community during natural and man-made disasters. PTCL and ConnectHear's collaboration underscores their shared belief that technology is a powerful equalizer and a potent tool for equitable growth and development.