"Although there are now some sign language classes offered through deaf associations, religious organizations, and some universities, deaf people indicate that these classes are primarily for hearing people and that most of the deaf community acquires sign language from their deaf friends."

"Currently, two sign languages appear to be in use in Panama: Lengua de Señas de Chiriqui (LSCH) in the Chiriqui province and Lengua de Señas Panameñas (LSP) in other urban areas where sign language is used. Deaf Panamanians indicate that they learn sign language from their deaf friends, rather than at home or in school, as the vast majority of deaf students are mainstreamed into hearing schools without interpreters. Although the government has made important moves toward increasing social access for people identified as being disabled, few deaf people are employed or live independently, regardless of their educational level. Although deaf associations are not yet unified in community and language development efforts, recent years have seen a movement toward creation of sign language dictionaries in both Chiriqui and Panama deaf communities. Deaf Panamanians are increasingly discussing how best to collaborate toward improvement of their deaf communities."
"In most situations, deaf Panamanians feel free to sign in public, although new acquirers of sign may feel some concern that better deaf signers may make fun of them."