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Disability Innovation in Pakistan
GDI Hub is working alongside global and local partners in Pakistan through our work with the Asian Development Bank, our UKAid-funded AT2030 programme, and our academic research and innovation acceleration. Last week, GDI Hub’s Dr Maryam Bandukda and Pollyanna Wardrop visited Islamabad and Karachi in Pakistan to speak with partners and stakeholders with expertise in and delivery of capacity building, AT innovation, inclusive employment, economic inclusion, and the social welfare of people with disabilities.
Baseline Survey in Pakistan Rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA)
Pakistan is the first country globally to conduct the rATA national survey with the objective to assess the needs and unmet needs of assistive technology and identify the barriers to access assistive technology in the population of Pakistan. Federal Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination (NHSRC) in collaboration with World Health Organization successfully implemented the survey in 16 districts of the country, including over 9000 households and nearly 63000 respondents. The data collected provides useful insights into the current situation of access to assistive technology in the country, and offers recommendations to improve access.
![A man in a cap and glasses smiles while holding a document. Text on the image promotes the “Disability Inclusive Futures [webinar],” exploring OPD ecosystems and capacity in Kenya and Pakistan. Cover Image](/static/website_creator/img/2025_LG_2.png)
Disability Inclusive Futures [webinar]: Exploring OPD ecosystems and capacity in Kenya and Pakistan
As part of the Global Disability Innovation Hub’s UK International Development funded AT2030 programme, a regional initiative has been rolled out to deepen understanding of OPD needs and priorities in Kenya and Pakistan. In Kenya, this work was delivered in partnership with the Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa (KBTA), and in Pakistan, by the Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP). The project included a needs assessment to understand the real-world challenges OPDs face, and capacity building to meet these identified needs.
Reflective narrative of OPD's and capacity building in Pakistan
This report explores the Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) ecosystem in Pakistan, focusing on how capacity building can drive systemic change, improve access to Assistive Technology (AT), and strengthen advocacy for the rights of People with Disabilities (PwDs). Part of the AT2030 programme, funded by UK International Development, the initiative draws on policy analysis, consultations with OPDs, and engagement with government, academia, and the private sector. It identifies key challenges, highlights opportunities, and offers practical recommendations to enhance OPD effectiveness and AT access.
Empowering OPDs to Lead Change
As part of the Global Disability Innovation Hub’s UK aid-funded AT2030 programme, a regional initiative has been rolled out to deepen understanding of OPD needs and priorities in Kenya and Pakistan. In Kenya, this work is led by Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa (KBTA), and in Pakistan, by the Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP). These efforts fall under the “Include” cluster of AT2030, focusing on leadership and engagement to drive systemic change.