China releases guidelines to standardize Braille writing of national anthem

(ECNS) -- The Braille writing guideline for Chinese national anthem and the national outline of the sign language proficiency test will take effect on Mar. 1, 2025, according to the China Disabled Persons’ Federation.

The newly-released guideline standardizes the Braille transcription of Chinese national anthem, covering both the five-line staff and numbered musical notation. The standards are designed for use by visually impaired individuals during occasions when the national anthem is performed or sung.

It aims to help individuals with visual impairments better understand the melody and lyrics of the national anthem, fostering a deeper connection to the anthem and further inspiring patriotic enthusiasm.

In addition, the new outline serves as the basis for the national sign language proficiency test. It represents a major advancement in the standardization, normalization, and digitalization of sign language in China and a key milestone in the development of the country’s language proficiency evaluation system.

It will play a crucial role in improving the quality of education and public services for individuals with hearing impairments, while accelerating the promotion and standardized use of the national sign language.