Six teams designed 3D-printed assistive device prototypes for children, youth, and individuals with disabilities during the Nepal Makeathon for Assistive Technology, held from February 16 to 18 at the Institute of Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Lalitpur.
Organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Impact Hub Kathmandu, and Kathmandu University Design Lab, the three-day event aimed to address affordability and accessibility challenges in assistive technologies for people with disabilities in Nepal.
More than 80 participants—including individuals with disabilities, occupational therapists, engineers, and digital fabrication specialists—collaborated to create human-centered, innovative assistive devices.
A key highlight of the event was the use of 3D printing, showcased as a cost-effective solution, with devices produced for less than $1 per unit.
Supported by Japanese experts and funded by the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, the initiative sought to drive practical solutions for accessibility challenges.
Rudi Van Dael, ADB’s Principal Social Sector Specialist, stressed the importance of collaboration and innovation in empowering people with disabilities. “This Makeathon demonstrated how technology can enhance participation and inclusivity,” he said.
Devi Dutta Acharya, President of the National Federation for Disabled Nepal, expressed interest in expanding similar initiatives nationwide to improve access to affordable assistive technologies.
The Makeathon also received support from the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens; Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology; National Federation for Disabled Nepal; Karuna Foundation; and FabLab Shinagawa.
