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Generate new evidence & insights.

We answer critical research questions and develop foundational methodologies, addressing intersectional challenges and research and evidence gaps.

Led by GDI Hub at University College London, with academic and community partners globally, this cluster will answer critical research questions and develop foundational methodologies to support the evidence base for best practices in assistive technology provision in low- and middle-income countries. 

Sub-Programmes

  • Data and Evidence Portal: Our Data and Evidence portal combines research from the Rapid Assessments of Assistive Technology and various global studies. The portal aims to improve access to life-changing assistive technology for all.
  • What Works: The What Works project focuses on research related to the AT2030 programme, aiming to answer specific questions and gather insights.
  • Mobile & Emerging Technology: Mobile and emerging technologies are enhancing assistive devices with features like text-to-speech and eye-gaze control, improving accessibility. However, questions persist about the effectiveness of mobile devices as assistive technology.
  • Fellowship Programme: Our Fellowships programme will accelerate emerging talent, helping to answer key research questions.

Latest

  • The ‘third wheel’: bringing sustainable e-mobility to wheelchair users in Nairobi

    Annamae Muldowney
    April 14, 2026
    Kenya
    Case Studies and Reports

    In Kenya, 42% of people with disabilities face mobility challenges, yet the country's urban environments remain largely inaccessible. That’s around 400,000 citizens with mobility impairments tackling uneven roads, inadequate public transport, and inaccessible infrastructure, becoming further isolated. Addressing these gaps is crucial to creating an inclusive, accessible future in Nairobi. This is the mission we’re working to on our pilot project: Smart Mobility.

    Publisher Link
  • Photo of a glowing orange sun rising over Ho. The foreground shows dense green foliage, while the background is a sprawling mist-covered town extending toward distant hills. Cover Image

    Beyond access, beyond impact – what about ‘lifechanging’ AT?

    Gifty Ayoka, Dr Ellie Cole, Professor Sylvia Esther Gyan, Dr Ernestina Tetteh
    March 26, 2026
    Ghana
    Case Studies and Reports

    What happens when someone receives assistive technology (AT)? The impact of AT is often only thought of as changes in functioning. This impact, while clearly important, may not capture the whole story. Another question which is asked less often: does the AT help the person to do what matters most to them? Does it enable them to achieve their goals and aspirations? We are therefore asking a simple question: how does AT become lifechanging?

  • Strengthening OPD Capacity for Inclusive Development in Kisumu County, Kenya

    Kilimanjaro Blind Trust
    March 25, 2026
    Kenya
    Case Studies and Reports

    Organisations working to bridge this gap face persistent challenges: gaps in digital literacy, limited access to assistive technologies, fragile organisational systems, and low visibility in decision-making spaces. Insights from a workshop convening 15 local leaders revealed a critical shift needed: moving from participation to influence. These findings directly inform the OPD Capacity Strengthening Framework, led by Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa (KBTA) and the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub). By strengthening governance, advocacy, digital capacity, and partnerships, the framework equips organisations to drive sustained, strategic influence in inclusive development.

  • Bridging the Digital Divide: Enhancing Digital Inclusion of Blind or Partially Sighted and Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals in Low- and Middle-Income Countries through Smartphones as Assistive Technology

    Vicki Austin, Catherine Holloway, Dr Giulia Barbareschi, Laxmi Gunupudi, Vinicius Delgado Ramos, Satish Mishra, Maryam Bandukda, Amit Prakash
    March 17, 2026
    Global
    Academic Research Publications

    In this study, we developed a two-day scaffolded digital skills training intervention for mobile literacy for people who are blind or partially sighted (BPS) and deaf or hard of hearing (DHH) across three research settings: Brazil, India, and Kenya. Using an adapted Mobile Device Proficiency Questionnaire (MDPQ) administered at pre- and post-intervention, we measured the impact of the digital skills training intervention on the perceived proficiency in smartphone use.

    Publisher Link

  • Bridging the Mobile Disability Gap: advancing access and use of mobile as assistive technology

    GSMA
    Dec. 4, 2025
    10am GMT

    Explore the power of mobile driven inclusion, as we welcome researchers, innovators and the mobile industry to reflect on the future of mobile, the Mobile Disability Gap, and how a Mobile as Assistive Technologies can change lives. Accessible digital products and services are progressing at pace, yet this means little if people with disabilities are unable to access mobile phones, the data to power services, or the skills to maximise use. Getting internet-enabled, accessible first devices into people’s hands and supporting their application matters. In this session leading researchers from GMSA and the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) will share new evidence and insights.

    Register