Technology and Accessibility in Developing Nations

In an increasingly digital world, technology has come to the forefront of boosting accessibility. However, the journey toward achieving inclusivity with the help of technology in developing nations is fraught with a multitude of challenges. These issues, stemming from a variety of socio-economic factors, have posed significant barriers to the widespread implementation of accessible technologies in developing nations. Here, we delve into some of the obstacles that have impeded the integration of inclusive technology solutions, along with the initiatives that are beginning to redefine the accessibility landscape in these impoverished nations.

The foundation of a society reliant on technology is based upon its infrastructure. The inadequate technological infrastructure prevalent in many developing nations continues to present a significant impediment to the widespread implementation of accessible technology. For example, many text to speech applications require access to the internet in order to function. Sporadic internet connectivity and unreliable power supply automatically hinder the possibility of this technology helping someone.

Furthermore, accessible technologies are many times prohibitively expensive, and educational disparities and low digital literacy rates in many developing nations pose challenges to the effective adoption of accessible technology. Without the possibility to have and/or learn about these technologies, it is virtually impossible for some to receive adequate help.

Often, the lack of infrastructure, monetary resources, and digital literacy are caused by an unstable government. In a place with a nonfunctional government, there are other issues at the forefront of society such as Corruption, political instability, security challenges and social unrest. Unfortunately, many times accessibility is put to the side.

Thankfully, there are some solutions being implemented in underdeveloped countries in order to aid their disabled communities. Public-Private Partnerships are one of the main helpers. In Rwanda, the GPE (Global Partnership for Education), in collaboration with the World Bank and other stakeholders, has been actively supporting the Inclusive Education for Children with Disabilities (IECD) program. This program focuses on enhancing the accessibility and quality of education for children with disabilities in Rwanda. Through this partnership, efforts have been made to develop inclusive education policies, train teachers in inclusive teaching methodologies, and provide resources and support for schools to accommodate students with disabilities. Although this has made a significant impact in the lives of many, the root of inaccessibility in these undeveloped countries is the presence of other issues, considered more important by some. As these countries hopefully develop into prosperous nations, the only thing we can do is raise awareness, and encourage more Public-Private Partnerships to appear in the aid of this dire issue.