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Highlights

  • Global Disability Summit: Side Event How can Asia and the Pacific’s banking sector advance the economic inclusion of people with disabilities? Thursday 3 April: 13:00 PM to 14:00 PM in Hall 4.2 A case study from Asian Development Bank (ADB) & Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) Highlighted points include: Highlight the banking sector's role in addressing barriers, Showcase a two-year project to catalyse economic inclusion across Asia and the Pacific, Sharing best practice, tangible evidence and new banking sector resources for inclusive pathways Logos shown include: Global Disablity Summit, ADB, GDI Hub, NBP, TBC and STEP Cover Image

    Global Disability Summit: Accessibility 2030 booth

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    April 2, 2025
    Germany
    GDS Screen Slides

    We thrilled to bring Accessibility 2030 to the Global Disability Summit (GDS) to drive urban accessibility. Led by GDI Hub with key partners, our booth will showcase innovations, tools, and case studies, sparking collaboration for more inclusive cities.

  • Man prosthetic leg in an urban environment Cover Image

    UCL Grand Challenges: A Catalyst to GDI Hub's Global Impact

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, UCL
    Jan. 14, 2025
    London

    In 2016, the UCL Grand Challenge awarded the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) an initial grant of £10,000. With this, we set out to address some of the most pressing challenges facing people with disabilities worldwide. Find out more.

  • Two people sitting outside and looking at a tablet together Cover Image

    Changing lives through AI - how a new Centre for Digital Language Inclusion will bridge the barrier between non-standard speech and the use of Automatic Speech Recognition for disabled people worldwide

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Jan. 8, 2025
    Global
    Publisher Link

    Automatic Speech Recognition is transforming the communication ability of people with non-standard speech. The prevalence of mobile devices, alongside free-to-access apps, is making Automatic Speech Recognition accessible, convenient, and less stigmatizing for people with slurred or difficult-to-understand speech. Today, UCL’s Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) is launching a new Centre for Digital Language Inclusion alongside collaborative partners Royal Academy of Engineering, University of Ghana and Talking Tipps. The Centre will collect datasets of non-standard speech to build Automatic Speech Recognition models, enabling disabled people with communication barriers to take advantage of Automatic Speech Recognition software.

  • screenshot of article's first page Cover Image

    Women less likely than men to use mobility aids despite greater need

    Jamie Danemayer, Mikaela Bloomberg, Adam Mills, Catherine Holloway, Shereen Hussein
    Dec. 13, 2024
    Global
    Publisher Link

    Women are more likely than men to experience mobility limitations that could benefit from the use of mobility aids but are much less likely to use them when needed, according to a new study from researchers at UCL and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).  Though the prevalence of disability continues to rise among the over fifties, many people do not have access to the mobility aids – such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs – that are essential for maintaining independence and social engagement.

  • UCL and Indian partners posing for photo Cover Image

    UCL and Indian partners announce new round of funding for 50 disability inclusion startups

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, UCL
    Nov. 25, 2024
    India
    Publisher Link

    Our Delhi based Attvaran Accelerator announced a second phase of this regional innovation accelerator, which will look to support 50 promising Indian start-up companies to scale emerging Assistive Tech The UCL Provost Dr Michael Spence AC joined our Assistive Tech Demo Day ahead of the Bengaluru Tech Summit, Asia's largest tech conclave to announce that the Attvaran Accelerator will continue to forge new interactions, innovation, research and business opportunities that enable pioneering Assistive Technologies to change lives across the region.

  • People at the "tɛkyerɛma pa" ("Good Tongue") launch Cover Image

    Google, University of Ghana and GDI Hub to Expand AI-Powered Speech Recognition for Non-Standard Speech in Ghanaian Languages

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 20, 2024
    Ghana

    The University of Ghana, Google Research Africa, and UCL’s Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) are collaborating on "tɛkyerɛma pa" ("Good Tongue"), an AI-based initiative aimed at improving communication for individuals with non-standard speech patterns. This project focuses on improving AI-powered speech recognition technology for five major Ghanaian languages, marking a significant step in making communication more inclusive for all.

  • Photo of Diya al-Adini, 15, was a young and enthusiastic photographer before he lost his hands in an Israeli strike in August. Diya is pictured in a Gaza Street - and is a double amputee Cover Image

    Easy-fit prosthetics offer hope to thousands of Gaza amputees

    BBC News
    Nov. 8, 2024
    Global
    Publisher Link

    BBC news article features innovation supported by AT2030 programme to provide easy-fit prosthetics to thousands of Gaza amputees. Koalaa - who were part of the AT2030 Assistive Tech Impact Fund, provide soft affordable prosthetics, focused on comfort and functionality.

  • Image of the financial times news piece web page - with photo of a participant speaking into a mobile, and an app being used. Cover Image

    Can AI help Africa close the development gap? [financial times piece explores how our AT2030 programme has tested the google relate app]

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Oct. 21, 2024
    Ghana
    Publisher Link

    The Financial Times piece explores how our AT2030 programme has tested the google relate app to understand how the app is currently used, how can be used and how can be improved - working alongside and training local speech and language therapists in Ghana.

  • Thryve Mobility demonstrate the lightness of their wheelchair - holding the wheelchair up on stage while presenting during Empower conference Cover Image

    16 Assistive Technology startups receive seed grants worth ₹78.5 Lakhs at the EMPOWER 2024 Pitch Day

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Oct. 19, 2024
    India

    India is a startup nation, and assistive technology is a globally growing market. Find out more about the AT2030 Attvaran Accelerator pitch day at the premiere Indian assistive technology conference, EMPOWER 2024 - a landmark move to accelerate innovation and inclusion in the AT sector.

  • Panelists during the ParaSport event Cover Image

    Disability, innovation and the power of Paralympic legacy – a reception to remember at the British ambassador's residence to mark the start of the 2024 Paris Paralympics

    Louise Gebbett
    Sept. 2, 2024
    France

    As the first day of sport kicked off in Paris, and crowds around the city streamed into venues to cheer Paralympians in action, the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) and Dame Menna Rawlings - British Ambassador to France – were delighted to welcome esteemed guests to the 'Beyond Sport' panel and reception to explore disability, innovation and the power of Paralympic legacy.

  • text reads, 'beyond this land' and shows a desert Cover Image

    Beyond this land - attracting new audiences to Para sport

    Loughborough University
    Aug. 28, 2024
    Global

    Africa remains one of the least engaged regions when it comes to disability sports and the adoption of assistive technology. Feedback from Phase One of the AT2030 Para Sport Against Stigma project highlighted a recurring misconception that disability sports are primarily a concept of the Global North, with little relevance in Africa. To challenge this narrative, and to leverage the global attention on disability sports in the lead-up to the Paris Games, we launched the #BeyondThisLand campaign - a digital initiative aimed at attracting a new and diverse audience to disability sports while increasing viewership among existing enthusiasts in Africa.

  • Tigmanshu Bhatnagar addressing the accelerator launch Cover Image

    Powering AT solutions - Attvaran India accelerator is launched

    Harrison Kamau, Louise Gebbett, Tigmanshu Bhatnagar
    July 18, 2024
    India

    Attvaran seeks to accelerate startup growth, supporting early-stage inclusive, disability and technology startups in improving their product-market fit. Through intense mentorship, ecosystem access, education and networking, this Delhi based accelerator will provide a pipeline for emerging regional technologies - and bring together key players in the assistive technology ecosystem.

  • image of the back of someones head, wearing hearing aid Cover Image

    How AT2030 has facilitated a 94% price reduction to power access to life-changing hearing aids

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, UNICEF
    March 4, 2024
    Rwanda
    Publisher Link

    In 2021 as part of the UK aid funded AT2030 programme, the Global Disability Innovation Hub and UNICEF were able to add hearing aids to the UNICEF Supply Catalogue for the first time. The catalogue enables governments around the world to access competitively priced and procured products - offering low-cost high-quality solutions for the first time. In Rwanda alone, a 94% reduction has been achieved.

All News Articles

  • LAunch photo Medellin Cover Image

    Inclusive Infrastructure Case Study Launched in Medellín, Colombia - Exploring Inclusive Environments

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Aug. 10, 2023
    Colombia
    Publisher Link

    Medellín, Colombia is the sixth and final case study city under the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) led and UK Aid funded AT2030 Inclusive Infrastructure sub-programme. Colombia’s second largest city, Medellín is well-known for its progress in urban development in the last 20 years, moving forward from its violent history. Medellín has been designated a district of innovation and is known for innovative urban projects such as its cable cars and electric escalators that connect higher altitude, low-income communities on the peripheries of the city. This case study explores the current state of accessibility and inclusion in the city for persons with disabilities and helps understand whether such urban innovations are inclusive for all the city’s residents.

  • Coloured photograph of Medellin taken from above Cover Image

    Launch event Inclusive Design Medellín

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    July 14, 2023
    Colombia

    An online event to share the findings and recommendations for infrastructure, built environment and urban development in Medellín, Colombia.

  • Image of the city of Medellin - the skyline Cover Image

    Medellín announced as the sixth AT2030 Inclusive Infrastructure Case Study

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 15, 2022
    Colombia

    The Global Disability Innovation Hub is delighted to announce that under the UK Aid-funded AT2030 programme, the sixth and final case study of the Inclusive Infrastructure sub-programme will take place in the city of Medellín, Colombia. The case study will start in January 2023 with the aim of launching the report in early summer.

  • GDIHub at the World Urban Forum

    Harrison Kamau
    Dec. 2, 2024
    Egypt

    In November 2024, the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) joined the global community at the World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, Egypt, contributing to the global dialogue on inclusive and accessible urban development.

  • Global Disability Summit: Side Event How can Asia and the Pacific’s banking sector advance the economic inclusion of people with disabilities? Thursday 3 April: 13:00 PM to 14:00 PM in Hall 4.2 A case study from Asian Development Bank (ADB) & Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) Highlighted points include: Highlight the banking sector's role in addressing barriers, Showcase a two-year project to catalyse economic inclusion across Asia and the Pacific, Sharing best practice, tangible evidence and new banking sector resources for inclusive pathways Logos shown include: Global Disablity Summit, ADB, GDI Hub, NBP, TBC and STEP Cover Image

    Accessibility 2030 Pavilion

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Oct. 31, 2024
    Egypt
    Pavilion Slides

    Join us at the Accessibility 2030 Pavilion at WUF 2024 in Cairo, and be part of this historic moment as we work together to shape the future of accessible urban design!

  • Global Disability Summit: Side Event How can Asia and the Pacific’s banking sector advance the economic inclusion of people with disabilities? Thursday 3 April: 13:00 PM to 14:00 PM in Hall 4.2 A case study from Asian Development Bank (ADB) & Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) Highlighted points include: Highlight the banking sector's role in addressing barriers, Showcase a two-year project to catalyse economic inclusion across Asia and the Pacific, Sharing best practice, tangible evidence and new banking sector resources for inclusive pathways Logos shown include: Global Disablity Summit, ADB, GDI Hub, NBP, TBC and STEP Cover Image

    Global Disability Summit: Accessibility 2030 booth

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    April 2, 2025
    Germany
    GDS Screen Slides

    We thrilled to bring Accessibility 2030 to the Global Disability Summit (GDS) to drive urban accessibility. Led by GDI Hub with key partners, our booth will showcase innovations, tools, and case studies, sparking collaboration for more inclusive cities.

  • A child is wearing the MiracleFeet brace. The brace is attached to his shoes and keeps his feet in a turned out position. The child is being held by his mother and smiling at a clinician, grabbing his hand Cover Image

    MiracleFeet: The human impact of foot braces in Nigeria and Liberia

    Miracle Feet
    Dec. 2, 2021
    Nigeria, Liberia
    PDF

    The Assistive Technology Impact Fund (ATIF), part of the AT2030 programme, has committed investment to support the company MiracleFeet, who provide clubfoot treatment to children in LMICs. To better understand and evidence the impact of MiracleFeet's work for children living with clubfoot, ATIF commissioned 60 Decibels to conduct research using specifically designed tools that could measure the impact of assistive technology. The results are shared in this insightful report, including findings from 200 parents and guardians of Nigerian and Liberian children who have undergone treatment using the MiracleFeet brace.

  • Front cover of publication: Liberia National Priority Assistive Products List (APL) Cover Image

    Liberia: Country Investment Fund and the production of National Priority Assistive Products List and National Roadmap to Increase Access to AT

    Clinton Health Access Initiative
    Dec. 31, 2021
    Liberia
    PDF

    Under the AT2030 programme and with the support of ATscale and the Country Investment Fund (CIF), the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) was the lead technical partner to the Liberia Ministry of Health in the development and validation of two major national documents for access to assistive technologies: National Roadmap to Increase Access to Assistive Technologies (2021-2023) and Liberia National Priority Assistive Products List (APL), First Edition. The development of these documents will pave the way in ensuring Assistive Technology can be accessed by disabled and older people living in Liberia.

  • Man prosthetic leg in an urban environment Cover Image

    UCL Grand Challenges: A Catalyst to GDI Hub's Global Impact

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, UCL
    Jan. 14, 2025
    London

    In 2016, the UCL Grand Challenge awarded the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) an initial grant of £10,000. With this, we set out to address some of the most pressing challenges facing people with disabilities worldwide. Find out more.

  • Monica Munga, Para athlete for Zambia Cover Image

    Press release: IPC–led partnership secures a record breaking 49 territories for free-to-air African broadcast coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Loughborough University
    Aug. 19, 2021
    Malawi, Global

    The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has confirmed that it will provide free-to-air coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games to 49 Sub-Saharan African territories as part of the AT2030 programme’s Para Sport Against Stigma project, which is funded by UK Aid.  This is an effort to elevate Para sport and ensure human rights for people with disabilities around the world.  Globally, there are 1.2 billion people with disabilities who are often unable to reach their full potential. Central to this is disability stigma, which limits full participation in society from employment and education to sport.

  • Monica Munga, a Para athlete from Zambia running on a blue track Cover Image

    Record 49 territories for free-to-air African broadcast coverage of Paralympic Games

    The International Paralympic Committee (IPC)
    Aug. 17, 2021
    Malawi, Global
    Publisher Link

    The International Committee for Paralympics (IPC) has confirmed that 49 Sub-Saharan African territories will be provided free-to-air coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games as part of the AT2030 programme's ParaSport Against Stigma Project. For the first time, African viewers will watch the opening and closing ceremonies broadcast live on 24 August and 5 September 2021.  Daily 52-minute highlights packages of African centred content featuring the continent’s biggest Paralympic heroes and rising stars, will be provided in English, French and Portuguese. It is estimated that the broadcasts will reach over 250 million viewers in Africa.

  • A child is wearing the MiracleFeet brace. The brace is attached to his shoes and keeps his feet in a turned out position. The child is being held by his mother and smiling at a clinician, grabbing his hand Cover Image

    MiracleFeet: The human impact of foot braces in Nigeria and Liberia

    Miracle Feet
    Dec. 2, 2021
    Nigeria, Liberia
    PDF

    The Assistive Technology Impact Fund (ATIF), part of the AT2030 programme, has committed investment to support the company MiracleFeet, who provide clubfoot treatment to children in LMICs. To better understand and evidence the impact of MiracleFeet's work for children living with clubfoot, ATIF commissioned 60 Decibels to conduct research using specifically designed tools that could measure the impact of assistive technology. The results are shared in this insightful report, including findings from 200 parents and guardians of Nigerian and Liberian children who have undergone treatment using the MiracleFeet brace.

  • image of the back of someones head, wearing hearing aid Cover Image

    How AT2030 has facilitated a 94% price reduction to power access to life-changing hearing aids

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, UNICEF
    March 4, 2024
    Rwanda
    Publisher Link

    In 2021 as part of the UK aid funded AT2030 programme, the Global Disability Innovation Hub and UNICEF were able to add hearing aids to the UNICEF Supply Catalogue for the first time. The catalogue enables governments around the world to access competitively priced and procured products - offering low-cost high-quality solutions for the first time. In Rwanda alone, a 94% reduction has been achieved.

  • A group photo members present during the launch of the AT guidelines and policies Cover Image

    AT Standards and Procurement Guidelines Launch Freetown, 12 April 2023

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Harrison Kamau
    May 4, 2023
    Sierra Leone

    Persons with disabilities face multiple challenges. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1.3 billion people worldwide experience significant disabilities, representing 16% of the world's population or 1 in 6 individuals. Additionally, persons with disabilities are at a higher risk of developing various health conditions and may experience premature mortality.  To address these challenges in Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Health & Sanitation, with support from Clinton Health Foundation (CHAI) and other technical partners, conducted a landscape assessment of assistive technology (AT) services in Sierra Leone in 2019. The assessment revealed critical gaps in the Assistive Technology (AT) landscape, including the absence of a policy and strategy for AT, which posed challenges for planning and implementing evidence-based AT activities in the country.

  • Report front cover Cover Image

    Press Release: Inclusive Design and Accessibility of the Built Environment in Freetown

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, SLURC
    April 12, 2023
    Sierra Leone

    Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) and Sierra Leone Urban Research Centre (SLURC) are delighted to invite you to the launch of this new case study considering Inclusive Design and Accessibility of the Built Environment in Freetown as part of the UK aid funded AT2030 sub-programme, ‘Inclusive Infrastructure’ - exploring the role of inclusive environments to enable equal access to Assistive Technology (AT).

  • Image of Freetown in Sierra Leone, photo overlooking a section of the city, showing a fairly high concentration of buildings, and a busy roads with traffic and people walking. Cover Image

    Launch Event: Inclusive Design and Accessibility of the Built Environment in Freetown, Sierra Leone

    Louise Gebbett
    April 11, 2023
    Sierra Leone

    A launch event of Freetown's Inclusive Design and Accessibility of the Built Environment Case Study. This event will share findings and recommendations for infrastructure, built environment and urban development - with the aim of driving global action to more accessible and inclusive cities.

  • A group of people holding certificates and smiling Cover Image

    International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Sierra Leone

    Dr. Abdulaya Dumbuya
    Dec. 13, 2021
    Sierra Leone

    One of our brilliant partners in Sierra Leone, Dr Abs Dumbuya, who works with us on the AT2030 project, recently wrote a letter on the celebrations in the country on International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3rd December and the progress the country has made.

  • Text graphic: Inclusive Infrastructure, Disability and Climate Change: what's needed to leave no one behind? with logos, COP28 and images of flooded urban areas causing issues with movement around the cities Cover Image

    Inclusive Infrastructure, Disability and Climate Change: what's needed to leave no one behind

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 30, 2023
    UAE

    Join us at COP28 as we bring together stakeholders working across inclusive infrastructure, disability-inclusive urban development, and climate change action to discuss partnerships and practical actions to ensure persons with disabilities are not left behind. As cities integrate climate adaptation and mitigation infrastructure, accessibility and inclusion must be embedded. There is no resilient and sustainable future without inclusion.

  • Text graphic - AT Growth Fund, request for proposals Cover Image

    Request for Proposals: Accessible and Assistive Technology Growth Fund

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Oct. 19, 2023
    United Kingdom

    AT Growth Fund will be an impact-first blended finance vehicle, combining leading-edge domain expertise with a global network of partners across research, innovation, international development, big tech, and public and private sectors​. Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) are seeking proven partners in impact-driven investing to develop the strategy, underpin the business model, and to mobilize and manage the fund.

  • A group photo during the engineering talents awards Cover Image

    Celebrating Excellence: Winners Announced at the 2023 Engineering Talent Awards!

    UCL
    Sept. 13, 2023
    United Kingdom
    Publisher Link

    The UCL Global Disability Innovation (GDI) Hub won Innovation of the Year for the development of a new, refreshable tactile technology Tacilia. The team aimed to allow children who are blind or have partial sight to be better able to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) education.

  • Man in Sierra Leone, holding and drinking from a water bottle using a soft fit prosthetic lower arm. He is sitting outside and wearing a blue t-shirt Cover Image

    GDI Hub at Conference of State Parties (COSP) - exploring ‘What Works’ to improve access to life-changing Assistive Tech (AT) for all

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    June 4, 2023
    United Kingdom
    PDF

    Five years ago we began to test something new. Bringing together key stakeholders and experts working across the AT arena, with the aim of enabling researchers, innovators and AT users to experiment with new ideas. Join Global Disability Innovation Hub, His Majesty's Government United Kingdom (UK), The World Health Organization and in partnership with UNICEF, ATscale and The International Disability Alliance for a unique insight into testing and backing new approaches.

  • Assistive Technology Data & Insights Portal - a vision for a highly accessible tool to serve the global Assistive Technology ecosystem

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Jan. 26, 2023
    United Kingdom

    Globally the AT space is developing rapdily, and alongside this comes a growing demand for highly accessible data & insight portal to serve the wider ecosystem, stakeholders, researchers and decision makers. Without a relevant and accessible source of data and insight, participants are struggling to connect, engage, research, invest, source, scout, procure, and contribute to the evolution of this nascent and rapidly growing global ecosystem. We are looking to change this.

  • Screen shot of digital session Cover Image

    GDI Hub at COP26

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 11, 2021
    United Kingdom

    As the earth warms and water levels rise, we need to design cities that support and adapt to the reality of the human experience. We need cities that are resilient in changing climates, that have the capacity to flex and adjust around both the needs of our planet AND the needs of our people. Catch up on our Inclusive Infrastructure and Climate session at COP26.

  • COP 26 logo Cover Image

    GDI Hub is upping the heat on COP26 climate talks to ensure a disability-inclusive future

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 1, 2021
    United Kingdom
    Publisher Link

    During a side event at COP26 on the 11th November, GDI Hub are partnering with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to challenge sector stakeholders to create a future that is both sustainable and inclusive for the 1.2 billion disabled people worldwide – a number set to rise dramatically over coming decades as populations age and stigma reduces. GDI Hub will go armed with newly discovered evidence from the £20 million UK Aid funded programme, AT2030, which highlights the urgency to consider disability inclusion as part of ongoing climate negotiations and resulting actions.

  • Lucas from Amparo holding the award Cover Image

    Prosthetics Startup Amparo wins FT & IFC award in innovating for disability

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    June 20, 2019
    United Kingdom

    Amparo, one of our AT2030 partners, received the Special Award for Innovating for Disability yesterday evening, at the Financial Times and IFC’s Transformational Business Awards 2019. A group of 9 judges selected the winners from a diverse selection of 270 businesses from all over the world.

  • Para Sport Against Stigma: Commonwealth Games athletes and coaches from Ghana and Zambia visit Loughborough University

    Loughborough University
    Aug. 31, 2022
    Ghana, Zambia
    Publisher Link

    Para Sport Against Stigma is a four-year project hat looks at how representation, education and communication in Para sport can challenge stigma associated with disability in Sub-Sarhan Africa. One part of PSAS focuses on Athlete Development and will see the International Paralympic Committee to deliver a programme to support National Paralympic Committees in Malawi, Ghana and Zambia to develop Para sport. As part of the Athlete Development focus, Para-Powerlifters who represented Ghana and Zambia at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022, along with their coaches, took the opportunity to visit and work with researchers and practitioners from Loughborough University and the International Paralympic Association.

  • Monica Munga, Para athlete for Zambia Cover Image

    Press release: IPC–led partnership secures a record breaking 49 territories for free-to-air African broadcast coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Loughborough University
    Aug. 19, 2021
    Malawi, Global

    The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has confirmed that it will provide free-to-air coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games to 49 Sub-Saharan African territories as part of the AT2030 programme’s Para Sport Against Stigma project, which is funded by UK Aid.  This is an effort to elevate Para sport and ensure human rights for people with disabilities around the world.  Globally, there are 1.2 billion people with disabilities who are often unable to reach their full potential. Central to this is disability stigma, which limits full participation in society from employment and education to sport.

  • Monica Munga, a Para athlete from Zambia running on a blue track Cover Image

    Record 49 territories for free-to-air African broadcast coverage of Paralympic Games

    The International Paralympic Committee (IPC)
    Aug. 17, 2021
    Malawi, Global
    Publisher Link

    The International Committee for Paralympics (IPC) has confirmed that 49 Sub-Saharan African territories will be provided free-to-air coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games as part of the AT2030 programme's ParaSport Against Stigma Project. For the first time, African viewers will watch the opening and closing ceremonies broadcast live on 24 August and 5 September 2021.  Daily 52-minute highlights packages of African centred content featuring the continent’s biggest Paralympic heroes and rising stars, will be provided in English, French and Portuguese. It is estimated that the broadcasts will reach over 250 million viewers in Africa.

  • Two people sitting outside and looking at a tablet together Cover Image

    Changing lives through AI - how a new Centre for Digital Language Inclusion will bridge the barrier between non-standard speech and the use of Automatic Speech Recognition for disabled people worldwide

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Jan. 8, 2025
    Global
    Publisher Link

    Automatic Speech Recognition is transforming the communication ability of people with non-standard speech. The prevalence of mobile devices, alongside free-to-access apps, is making Automatic Speech Recognition accessible, convenient, and less stigmatizing for people with slurred or difficult-to-understand speech. Today, UCL’s Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) is launching a new Centre for Digital Language Inclusion alongside collaborative partners Royal Academy of Engineering, University of Ghana and Talking Tipps. The Centre will collect datasets of non-standard speech to build Automatic Speech Recognition models, enabling disabled people with communication barriers to take advantage of Automatic Speech Recognition software.

  • screenshot of article's first page Cover Image

    Women less likely than men to use mobility aids despite greater need

    Jamie Danemayer, Mikaela Bloomberg, Adam Mills, Catherine Holloway, Shereen Hussein
    Dec. 13, 2024
    Global
    Publisher Link

    Women are more likely than men to experience mobility limitations that could benefit from the use of mobility aids but are much less likely to use them when needed, according to a new study from researchers at UCL and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).  Though the prevalence of disability continues to rise among the over fifties, many people do not have access to the mobility aids – such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs – that are essential for maintaining independence and social engagement.

  • AT Innovation and Impact Podcast

    Harrison Kamau
    Dec. 3, 2024
    Global

    Welcome to the AT Innovation Podcast. In this series, we embark on a journey through the heart of Africa to explore a world where creativity and technology converge to challenge and transform our understanding of disability. We spotlight the work of Innovate Now, Africa’s first assistive technology accelerator, and the pioneering individuals behind its success. Together, we uncover how Africa's assistive technology innovation ecosystem is not just evolving but revolutionizing the way assistive technologies are perceived, developed, and adopted.

  • Photo of Diya al-Adini, 15, was a young and enthusiastic photographer before he lost his hands in an Israeli strike in August. Diya is pictured in a Gaza Street - and is a double amputee Cover Image

    Easy-fit prosthetics offer hope to thousands of Gaza amputees

    BBC News
    Nov. 8, 2024
    Global
    Publisher Link

    BBC news article features innovation supported by AT2030 programme to provide easy-fit prosthetics to thousands of Gaza amputees. Koalaa - who were part of the AT2030 Assistive Tech Impact Fund, provide soft affordable prosthetics, focused on comfort and functionality.

  • Seeking an experienced General Partner (investment fund manager) to build on our success supporting companies ready to scale that are already changing the way people live, learn, and work.

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Sept. 10, 2024
    Global

    The Accessible & Assistive Technology Growth Fund (AT Growth Fund) is a catalytic impact fund that will harness technology to improve the lives of millions of people in low- and middle-income countries. Our goal is to drive innovation, accessibility, and inclusivity through private sector investments in life changing accessible and assistive technologies. We are seeking an experienced General Partner (investment fund manager) to build on our success supporting companies ready to scale that are already changing the way people live, learn, and work.

  • text reads, 'beyond this land' and shows a desert Cover Image

    Beyond this land - attracting new audiences to Para sport

    Loughborough University
    Aug. 28, 2024
    Global

    Africa remains one of the least engaged regions when it comes to disability sports and the adoption of assistive technology. Feedback from Phase One of the AT2030 Para Sport Against Stigma project highlighted a recurring misconception that disability sports are primarily a concept of the Global North, with little relevance in Africa. To challenge this narrative, and to leverage the global attention on disability sports in the lead-up to the Paris Games, we launched the #BeyondThisLand campaign - a digital initiative aimed at attracting a new and diverse audience to disability sports while increasing viewership among existing enthusiasts in Africa.

  • Text graphic of title: Social Finance and Investing For Good become the first delivery partners for AT2030's Accessible and Assistive Technology Growth Fund Cover Image

    Social Finance and Investing For Good become the first delivery partners for AT2030's Accessible and Assistive Technology Growth Fund

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Dec. 13, 2023
    Global

    We are delighted to announce that GDI Hub will be partnering with Social Finance and Investing For Good for the next phase of the AT Growth Fund as we look to transcend a new frontier for venture capital and commercial lending in disability innovation. The AT Growth Fund will look to unlock long-term market opportunities in the undercapitalized yet immensely valuable Assistive Technology (AT) sector.

  • Text graphic: IDA survey with logos and diverse image of people Cover Image

    Online survey to collect insights on critical aspects of assistive technology device use and access

    International Disability Alliance
    Nov. 22, 2023
    Global
    Publisher Link

    This International Disability Alliance (IDA) project looks to positioning OPDs as equal partners on AT. The project intends to strengthen the role of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations, in advancing the use of and access to AT devices. Central to the project is, collecting knowledge and research from persons with disabilities.

  • Image of UN building from the outside, with flags in foreground and blue sky. Cover Image

    UK aid announces £31 million to improve access to life-changing Assistive Technology for all, backing increased ground-breaking innovation and research by the AT2030 programme, led by Global Disability Innovation Hub, at UCL.

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    June 14, 2023
    Global

    The UN annual Disability conference at the United Nations in New York, Rt Hon Tom Pursglove MP, Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work in the UK, announced that UK Aid would invest a further £31 million into the AT2030 programme, led by GDI Hub, to reach 9 million more people directly and 12 million more people indirectly with life-changing accessible technology.

  • Text graphic - '[Monday 6:30pm EDT] Comprehensive Approaches to Disability Inclusion (hosted by World Bank Group) GDI Hub CEO Dr Vicki Austin will address the event [Tuesday 9:45am EDT] Inclusive Urban Development: Accessibility as an enabler for reaching under-represented groups of persons with disabilities (co-hosted by UN-Habitat India, UNRCO India, Global Disability Innovation Hub) [Tuesday 6:30pm EDT] ‘What Works’ to improve access to life-changing Assistive Technology (AT) for all (co-hosted by Global Disability Innovation Hub, WHO & His Majesty's Government United Kingdom) - find out more about our UK aid funded AT2030 programme [Wednesday 9:45am EDT] Breaking Down Accessibility Barriers Through Localisation: Presenting and unpacking recommendations for States Parties to accelerate implementation of accessibility (hosted by WBU) [Wednesday 1.15-2.30pm EDT] Digital Assistive Technology Challenges and Opportunities: The Potential of Mobile Devices Cover Image

    GDI Hub and partners side events at COSP

    Louise Gebbett
    June 9, 2023
    Global

    A full list of details and registration to the GDI Hub led side-event at Conference of State Parties (COSP) to the CRPD as well as details of the side-events GDI Hub are co-hosting and supporting with partners.

  • AbilityNew Techshare Pro 2022

    AbilityNet
    Nov. 15, 2022
    Global
    Publisher Link

    With over 2,000 registrations AbilityNet TechShare Pro 2022 was Europe's largest gathering of accessibility and disability inclusion professionals - and their allies. Archive tickets give you access to all recordings from three days of engaging, interactive sessions, inclduing keynotes, workshops and discussion forums. AT2030 programme leads Bernard Chiira and Professor Catherine Holloway were part of panel discussions at this conference.

  • WHO text graphic: Registration is open TAP launch webinar 10 November 2022 TAP MOOC 10-24 November Cover Image

    Launch of WHO Training in Assistive Products

    World Health Organization
    Oct. 16, 2022
    Global

    Training in Assistive Products (TAP) is a new open access online training resource to prepare primary health and other personnel to fulfil an assistive technology role. This new global resource has been driven by support from UK aid through GDI Hub's AT2030 programme.

  • AT2030 Logo Cover Image

    AT2030 Midterm Impact Summary

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    May 19, 2022
    Global
    PDF

    With the launch of the Global Report on Assistive Technology, AT2030 publishes the Midterm Impact Summary brochure to highlight the impact of the work across our programmes.

  • Image of the global report being showcased at the UK launch event in parliment - the report is photographed placed on a chair. Cover Image

    Global Report on Assistive Technology is launched - setting the roadmap for improving access to assistive technology for everyone

    UNICEF, World Health Organization
    May 17, 2022
    Global

    There is a large, unmet need for assistive technology worldwide. The WHO-UNICEF Global Report on Assistive Technology will play an instrumental role in setting the global roadmap for improving access to assistive technology for everyone, everywhere.

  • Purple background with the headshots of all the speakers for the global report launch Cover Image

    Global Report on Assistive Technology due to be launched!

    Katherine Perry
    May 13, 2022
    Global
    News

    16th May 2022 marks the launch of the first ever Global Report for Assistive Technology

  • ALT text: text graphic - black background, yellow writing: 'The Opportunity of a Billion - session 1: Assistive Technology Investment. Tuesday 23rd November 2-3.30pm Cover Image

    The Opportunity of a Billion - special webinar series exploring the Assistive Tech Impact Fund

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 15, 2021
    Global

    We're delighted to announce a special Disability Innovation Live webinar series showcasing current AT pioneers and exploring the future role of assistive technology (AT) in the impact investing landscape. The series will be a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of our AT Impact Fund, hearing from the innovators, experts and investors on entering new markets, exploring never-used-before financing models and developing pioneering business models.

  • Professor Cathy Holloway Cover Image

    Professor Catherine Holloway at UNESCO: Global Media and Information Literacy Week

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Nov. 12, 2021
    Global
    Publisher Link

    On 29th October, Professor Catherine Holloway was invited to speak as a research partner of UNESCO and advocated for the need of technology to account for the needs of the population. The event was held virtually and organised by The Permanent Mission of Chile in its capacity of Presidency of the Group of Friends of Older Persons, UNESCO, WHO and ITU.

  • A child's legs in plaster receiving treatment. Cover Image

    New report calls for global action for children and adults with clubfoot

    Miracle Feet
    Aug. 2, 2021
    Global
    News
    Publisher Link

    A new report by the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) for AT2030, a UK Aid-funded program led by the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub), aims to drive progress for children and adults with clubfoot to reach their full potential.

  • A manual for public procurement of assistive products, accessories, spare parts and related services Cover Image

    An online launch of the WHO and UNICEF procurement manual for assistive products, accessories, spare parts, and related services

    World Health Organization, UNICEF
    July 7, 2021
    Global
    Publisher Link

    On 06 July 2021, an online event was held to launch the WHO and UNICEF manual for public procurement of assistive products, accessories, spare parts, and related services. This manual focuses on public procurement and specifically on tendering (competition) for assistive products, accessories, spare parts and related services, hereafter called assistive products. The manual is based on procuring these products from manufacturers, or one of their economic operators, called suppliers.

  • Limb fitting in workshop environment Cover Image

    AT2030 programme secures A plus rating from Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office and has reached 12m people so far

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    April 19, 2021
    Global

    We are delighted to announce that the AT2030 programme has been recognised as; excellent ‘Exceeding Expectations’ by funders UK Aid and has already reached 12 million people in more than 31 countries.

  • Photograph of a rural area in a low resource setting Cover Image

    Global Disability Innovation Hub becomes the worlds first WHO Collaborating Centre on Assistive Technology

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology
    March 15, 2021
    Global

    The Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub), based at UCL, is the first organisation to be awarded the status of World Health Organisation (WHO) Official Collaborating Centre on Assistive Technology (AT). Led by GDI Hub’s Academic Director, Professor Cathy Holloway, the WHO Collaborating Centre will focus on driving global disability innovation to work towards a fairer world through access to assistive and accessible technology.

  • Front page of report Cover Image

    First ever global guide for assistive technology to improve the life of millions

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, UNICEF, World Health Organization
    March 4, 2021
    Global
    News

    The new WHO Assistive Products Specifications is the first global guide for quality-assured assistive products, containing specs for 26 prioritised assistive products, including the minimum quality requirements for manufacturing. Funded by UK Aid under the AT2030 programme, the work is a major milestone to drive high quality, affordable AT globally.

  • Image of a man in a wheelchair in a workshop environment in Africa Cover Image

    Assistive Tech Impact Fund launches global call for innovative African solutions

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Catherine Holloway, Brink, Catalyst Fund, Tamara Giltsoff
    Feb. 11, 2021
    Global
    News

    The Assistive Tech Impact Fund (ATIF) is changing the prospects of AT innovators in Africa, providing up to £200k of grant funding alongside expert-led venture-building support to facilitate the growth of the AT sector.

  • Assistive Tech Impact Fund logo Cover Image

    Assistive Tech Impact Fund: £4m fund trialling impact investment

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Brink, Catalyst Fund, Tamara Giltsoff
    Dec. 3, 2020
    Global

    On the International Day of People with Disabilities, the new Assistive Tech Impact Fund (ATIF) has been launched out of the UK Aid-funded AT2030 programme, led by the Global Disability Innovation (GDI) Hub. It is a collaboration between GDI Hub, Brink, Tamara Giltsoff and Catalyst Fund. The partnership combines deep expertise in AT, innovation and venture building in Africa, respectively.

  • Rusmiyati, discus thrower & member of National Paralympic Committee Chapter Banjarmasin, Indonesia Cover Image

    UK Aid funding to support 10.5 million more people with access to life changing Assistive Technology through three innovative investments

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Dec. 3, 2020
    Global

    Today, on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) is proud to announce three new innovative investments to reach an additional 10.5 million people as part of the UK Aid funded AT2030 programme.

  • Paralympic footballers Cover Image

    IPC to provide free to air coverage of Toyko 2020 Paralympic Games in Sub-Saharan Africa thanks to support from UK Aid

    Loughborough University, The International Paralympic Committee (IPC)
    Dec. 2, 2020
    Global

    This broadcast initiative is a key element of the Para Sport Against Stigma project between the IPC, Loughborough University, and the University of Malawi, Chancellor College, which aims to support social change and overcome stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities in Africa. Para Sport Against Stigma is part of AT2030, a programme funded by UK Aid and led by the Global Disability Innovation Hub.

  • course participants during zoom call Cover Image

    Sports Against Stigma: ImPOSSIBLE Educators on mission to overcome stigma in Africa

    The International Paralympic Committee (IPC)
    Nov. 28, 2020
    Global

    This particular November course was the first activity of the collaborative project Para Sport Against Stigma aiming to overcome stigma and discrimination against persons with disabilities in Africa. This project is part of the AT2030 programme.

  • Image of kid in a wheelchair Cover Image

    Sports Against Stigma: Loughborough University to play role in £1million+ Para Sport Against Stigma project that aims to change attitudes towards people with disabilities in Africa

    Loughborough University
    Nov. 20, 2020
    Global

    The project – Para Sport Against Stigma – will investigate the use of Para sport as a catalyst for change in attitudes about disability and assistive technology (AT) in Ghana, Malawi, and Zambia.

  • Launch of the assistive technology capacity assessment ATA C tool

    GATE, Irene Calvo
    Nov. 19, 2020
    Global

    The ATA-C can be used for awareness raising, policy and programme design and ongoing monitoring and evaluation by policy-makers, decision-makers and country governments involved in assistive technology work. The ATA-C implementation process can also serve to bring diverse stakeholders together and build momentum for action.

  • Screenshot of the YouTube recording with the InnovATe wheelchair shown on screen Cover Image

    Designing for resilience through circular economy

    Mark Miodownik
    Nov. 9, 2020
    Global

    A talk by Professor Mark Miodownik on "Designing for Resilience through Circular Economy and Disctributed Manufacture" as part of the COVIDaction partnership under Sub-Programme 3.

  • Lincoln Wamae smiling Cover Image

    African Inclusive Employment Innovators sought for Assistive Technology Acceleration Opportunity with Innovate Now

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, AMREF Health Africa
    Oct. 15, 2020
    Global

    Africa’s first Assistive Technology Accelerator, Innovate Now, is launching the third call for application from innovators across the African continent to develop technologies and services designed to assist people living with disabilities around the theme of the Future of Inclusive Employment.

  • Text reads Powering inclusion Cover Image

    Powering Inclusion: AI and Assistive Technology. Call for evidence.

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    Sept. 8, 2020
    Global

    As part of the AT2030 Programme, UNESCO's International Research Centre on Artificial Intelligence (IRCAI), UCL's Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub), the European Disability Forum (EDF), and the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI) are seeking ideas to help build a research agenda on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Assistive Technology (AT).

  • Country Investment Fund promo Cover Image

    Country Investment Fund (CIF) launched

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    June 11, 2020
    Global

    As part of the continued work in this AT2030 subprogramme, the Country Investment Fund (CIF) will support 3-5 grants in Africa that have already completed a CCA.

  • Hearing Aid PN Cover Image

    Hearing Aid Product Narrative launched during World Hearing Day

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, ATscale, Clinton Health Access Initiative, Margaret Savage
    March 3, 2020
    Global
    PDF

    In celebration of World Hearing Day on March 3rd, AT2030 and ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, launched the publication: “Hearing Aid Product Narrative: A Market Landscape and Strategic Approach to Increasing Access to Hearing Aids and Related Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.”

  • WHO and UNICEF started Open Consultations for 27 Assistive Product Specifications (APS)

    Nov. 6, 2019
    Global

    GDI Hub is supporting WHO GATE and UNICEF on conducting the Open Consultations for 27 Assistive Product Specifications (APS).

  • Hogan Lovells is part of the movement to accelerate Disability Innovation for a Fairer World by supporting AT2030

    Sept. 2, 2019
    Global

    Hogan Lovells is enabling all of this work, through its pro and low bono legal support.

  • UK government to double investment in AT2030 to £19.8million because of 'amazing early results'

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    March 28, 2019
    Global

    The Minister of State for International Development, Lord Bates, announced today at the Sightgeist event in London, that the UK government is doubling its investment in the flagship AT2030 programme from £10million to £19.8million. This will be 100% matched by the private sector, country governments, academic institutions, NGOs and other partners.