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
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The ‘third wheel’: bringing sustainable e-mobility to wheelchair users in Nairobi
Annamae MuldowneyApril 14, 2026KenyaCase Studies and ReportsIn 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.
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Global Insights Summary report
Global Disability Innovation HubMarch 31, 2026GlobalAcademic Research PublicationsSmartphones now contain screen readers, magnification tools, live captions, real-time transcription, and navigation features that can perform many of the functions of traditional assistive products. Across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), people with disabilities are using these built-in features as their primary assistive technology, often because specialist AT is unavailable, unaffordable, or absent.
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Brazil Case Study Report
Global Disability Innovation HubMarch 31, 2026BrazilAcademic Research PublicationsThis study investigated the feasibility and impact of providing smartphones and digital skills training to people with visual and hearing impairments in Brazil, a country where over 84% of the population uses the internet, but a significant digital divide persists for those with disabilities.
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Talking Tipps Foundation
Dr Ellie ColeMarch 31, 2026GhanaTalking Tipps started as an autism advocacy organisation because my son was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. We faced a lot of challenges and barriers trying to access education, trying to access the health system, and then generally trying to just let my child be a normal child. I didn't want other families to go through the same barriers that I faced. I decided to start an organisation to do advocacy because many people did not understand what disability is in general and what autism was.
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Pathways to Funding For Organisations of Persons with Disabilities in Low- and-Middle-Income Countries
Global Disability Innovation Hub, Rebecca Joskow, Anna Landre, Pollyanna WardropMarch 31, 2026GlobalAcademic Research PublicationsOrganisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) play vital roles as policy and governance experts, strategic partners, advocates, and community implementers of work to progress equity and inclusion of people with disabilities, including accelerating access to assistive technology. Despite their integral role in disability rights advocacy, many OPDs operate with minimal and insecure funding, undermining their ability to sustain operations, be involved in, and have influence over the shaping of strategies, policies, and interventions.