  People with disabilities often face discrimination and lack of access in all
areas of society. While improving the affordability and appropriateness of
assistive technologies can pave the way for easier participation and
independence, awareness and acceptance of disability as part of society are
inevitable. The presented regional initiative strives to tackle these problems
by bringing together people with disabilities, students, researchers, and
associations. During different lecture formats at the university, students
co-design assistive technologies with people with disabilities. After one year
in practice, we reflect on the initiative and its impact on assistive
technology development and mitigation of ableism. We conducted and analyzed
thirteen semi-structured interviews with participants and other involved
stakeholders. Not all co-design projects were finished within the time of a
lecture. Participants nevertheless appreciated the co-design approach and steps
in the right direction as projects are continued in upcoming semesters.
Interviewees highlighted the initiative's importance in raising awareness and
broadening knowledge regarding disability and internalized ableist assumptions
for those participating. We conclude that collaboration, continuity, and public
outreach are most important to work towards tangible assistive technologies,
bridging accessibility gaps, and fostering a more inclusive society.
