The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has applauded the passing of the Bill to recognise South African Sign Language (SASL) as the twelfth official language in the country.

The Bill was passed by the National Assembly through the amendment of Section 6 of the Constitution.

The SAHRC says the Bill is a step in the right direction to promote human rights and specifically the rights of persons who use sign language.

The commission has alerted to the impending challenges government departments and public bodies will face in enhancing capacity to service and communicate effectively with all citizens.

The SAHRC said it will now be able to expend some of its resources to ensure that it is better able to service some of the over four-million people who use sign language in South Africa.

The adoption of SASL as a subject in schools is suggested as an educational imperative, which will also foster nation-building and social harmony.

The Bill will be tabled at the National Council of Provinces for consideration.