The exhibition ‘School Is All They Need’ hosted at the Ljubljana Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

On Tuesday, 21 October 2025, we opened a visiting exhibition entitled ‘School Is All They Need’ on the history of education for the deaf at the primary school of the Ljubljana Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ZGNL).

The exhibition traces the education of the deaf through six historical periods up to the present day. Each period was characterised by an individual who viewed teaching the deaf as more than just their job — they saw it as a mission. The exhibition was devised by Polona Koželj and Klara Marija Keršič from the Slovenian School Museum.

The exhibition was inaugurated in a pleasant atmosphere. First, Bernarda Kokalj, the Director of the Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Mag Stane Okoliš, the Director of the Slovenian School Museum, addressed those present.

The authors of the exhibition then gave a brief summary of its content, emphasising the importance of establishing connections and raising awareness of deaf education. The Institute staff also contributed to the exhibition by setting up a showcase in memory of Anton and Cvetka Uranker and Bogo Jakopič, pioneers of deaf education who dedicated their lives to the work of the Institute. The showcase was presented by Nina Janžekovič, the school librarian, and the story of the Uranker couple was shared with us by their daughter Katarina Lovšin, who is also a member of staff at the secondary school. Sabina Pokovec, a sign language interpreter, provided professional support throughout the event.

The wonderful Rozalije provided pleasant musical accompaniment.

With the support of Sabina Pokovec’s presence, voice and gestures, we created a wonderful event. At the Slovenian School Museum, we recognise that by working together we are making significant progress in the education of the deaf and hard of hearing.