The Role of Assistive Technology in Education

This chapter examines the availability and accessibility of assistive devices and technologies in four Southern African Development Community (SADC) states—Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. While assistive devices hold great potential for enhancing learning and supporting people with disabilities, their accessibility remains limited due to high costs and reliance on imported products. Moreover, the distribution of these devices is predominantly focused in urban areas, leaving individuals with disabilities in rural settings without the essential educational and support tools they need. Grounded in the principles of Ubuntu and intersectionality, this chapter highlights the urgent need for governments to prioritize the development of locally produced assistive technologies. It also advocates increased investment in assistive devices to promote equitable access and advance the realization of inclusive education across the region.