RAWCS Project 22-2025-26, Hearing aid program in Asia Pacific Region (RAOAF) – PDG Danny Low
Past District Governor Danny Low of Rotary District 9685 had been involved in helping those who suffered impaired hearing since 1990. He support schools for children with impaired hearing and later extended the project to provide free hearing aids from Australia in co-operation with hospitals and other charitable entities.
In 2024, Rotary Club of Patan East Rotary District 3292 Nepal requested PDG Danny Low for donation of hearing aids from Australia of hearing aids to Nepal. The local audiologists in Nepal will test hearing loss, prescribe, fit and finally educate and provide ongoing support to the users including paying for supplies of batteries needed.
In August 2025, PDG Danny Low and 2 audiology volunteers Dr Joyce Sagun and Ms. Katherina Layson brought testing and fitting equipment for the fitting of the donated hearing aids to identified recipients in the communities in Kathmandu, Nepal. Co-operations and exchange of processes and training are also provided during the visit.
This is a significant humanitarian initiative: the donation of hearing aids to people in Nepal living with hearing impairment who cannot afford assistive devices. This project aimed to address a critical gap in hearing health accessibility, particularly in rural and low income communities where medical resources remain limited and the cost of hearing aids is far beyond the reach of most families.
The initiative was coordinated through a partnership between Rotary Club of Chatswood International and Rotary Club of Patan East Nepal, as the project local partner. The project began with a needs assessment conducted by Nepalese Rotarians, identifying regions where hearing impairment rates were high and access to treatment was minimal. Many individuals—children, adults, and the elderly—had lived for years with untreated hearing loss, affecting their education, employment opportunities, and social participation.
Rotary Club of Chatswood International organised the collection, refurbishment, and testing of high quality hearing aids. Audiologists ensured that each device met clinical standards and could be programmed to suit a range of hearing loss profiles. The hearing aids were then shipped to Nepal, accompanied by a team of volunteers who assisted with distribution and training.
Upon arrival, Rotary Nepal facilitated community outreach events in schools, health posts, and local community centers. Recipients underwent hearing assessments, after which the donated devices were fitted and adjusted. Training sessions were also provided to local health workers, enabling them to maintain the devices and support long term follow up care. This capacity building component ensures that the project’s impact extends well beyond the initial donation.
The 2025 donation has already transformed hundreds of lives. Children who previously struggled in school due to hearing difficulties can now participate fully in class. Adults who had withdrawn from employment or community life due to communication barriers have regained confidence and independence. For many elderly recipients, the hearing aids restored meaningful connections with family and community.
This initiative reflects Rotary’s enduring commitment to service, international cooperation, and sustainable community development. By bridging the gap between Australian resources and Nepalese needs, the project demonstrates how global partnerships can create lasting change. The success of the 2025 hearing aid donation has inspired discussions about expanding the program in future years, ensuring that even more people in Nepal gain access to the gift of hearing.