Nauman Ali
Karachi: ConnectHear, a leading Pakistani social enterprise promoting disability inclusion through technology, has partnered with Ufone 4G — part of the PTCL Group — to launch SUNO, the world’s first AI-based Early Warning System designed for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
Supported by the GSMA Mobile for Humanitarian Innovation Fund, SUNO uses artificial intelligence to generate sign language alerts during emergencies such as floods and earthquakes. These alerts are disseminated through Ufone’s WhatsApp bot, ensuring free, real-time communication for at-risk individuals across Pakistan.
ConnectHear has developed the AI-driven sign language content, while Ufone 4G provides the digital infrastructure and nationwide distribution support.
Hatem Bamatraf, President and Group CEO of PTCL & Ufone 4G, said the initiative aligns with the company’s “Dil Se” platform — a commitment to leveraging technology for social good.
“Our collaboration with ConnectHear reflects our belief that true digital inclusion leaves no one behind,” Bamatraf stated. “We’re using technology with purpose to create impact that truly matters.”
Azima Dhanjee, Co-founder of ConnectHear, emphasized the life-saving importance of accessible communication.
“In an emergency, communication isn’t just important—it’s a matter of life and death,” she said. “For too long, Deaf individuals, including my own parents, have been cut off from urgent alerts. With SUNO, we’re changing that by proving accessibility is a fundamental human right.”
Kimberly Brown, Head of Mobile for Humanitarian Innovation at GSMA, highlighted the project’s global significance.
“Inclusive innovation ensures mobile technology creates meaningful impact where it’s needed most,” Brown said. “This collaboration between ConnectHear and Ufone 4G shows how mobile can break barriers in disaster preparedness, protecting those historically excluded from emergency communication.”
The launch event in Islamabad showcased how socially-driven innovation can enhance resilience and inclusivity during crises. The SUNO platform represents a landmark step for Pakistan’s disability inclusion efforts, setting a global benchmark for accessible emergency communication.
