Users describe the gaps
Pacific Disability Forum chief executive Sainimili Tawake stressed the importance of leadership by organisations of persons with disabilities. Participants described an urban-rural divide in access. Fiji’s discussion highlighted reliance on donated equipment, while Kiribati representatives raised high prices and difficulties obtaining servicing. The workshop considered how user evidence could influence national priorities. [1]
A programme for school-aged children
ATscale presented a 2025–2028 Pacific initiative to expand assistive technology and related rehabilitation for school-aged children. Seven governments had expressed interest, while implementing partners were being selected. This was a programme-development stage, with opportunities for disability organisations to participate. [1]
National plans link products and services
ATscale’s later country descriptions for Fiji and Kiribati connect vision, hearing and mobility screening with provision of assistive products. They also prioritise trained staff, procurement, data, follow-up and referrals, with attention to girls and children on remote islands. Sustainable access requires those services alongside the equipment. [3]