About ADI

The Institute for Accessibility Development (ADI), Tsinghua University, was founded on April 23rd, 2016, when was the 105th Anniversary of Tsinghua University. It is a school-level transdisciplinary research institution built with the approval of Tsinghua University and managed by the Center of Tsinghua Think Tanks. It is supported by the China Disabled Persons’ Federation (CDPF) in conjunction with related state ministries and commissions, such as Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Ministry of Civil Affairs, and National Council on Aging. It stands out as a national new featured think tank and acts as an accessible technology innovation platform. Its jointly-built units within Tsinghua University include the School of Architecture, Academy of Arts & Design, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Computer Science and Technology, and School of Social Sciences. 

The Institute for Accessibility Development, Tsinghua University, is positioned as an accessible technology innovation platform and a new featured think tank for inclusive society; and features a User-centered trans-disciplinary development model. Users refer to those who are impaired in terms of actions and perception, including people with disabilities, elders, children, and people with temporary mobility impairments. Interdisciplinary research involves public policy, law, design, technology, products, education, etc. In terms of research and application, it serves the huge social development needs in the future, and reshapes and enhances our living environment and quality of life.

On May 16, 2019, the 6th conference of National Award of Excellence for Organizations Helping Persons with Disabilities took place in Beijing. President Xi Jinping met with representatives attending the conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The Institute was titled the National Award of Excellence for Organizations Helping Persons with Disabilities, which was the first time for Chinese universities to win the award.

MISSION

The Institute for Accessibility Development, Tsinghua University, is committed to building a world class transdisciplinary research platform and promoting the development of accessible environments for all: based on global vision, international standards, and Chinese characteristics, connecting well known corporations and organizations, world-class scholars and high-tech products.

GOALS

Ⅰ. Consultations and Research on China’s National Conditions: systematically research on living conditions and basic needs for people with disabilities and solutions of improving their social, economic, political, and cultural values, which contributes to providing scientific advice for policy makers.

Ⅱ. Human-settlements Environment and Technology Innovation: supporting and guiding interdisciplinary research, including cross innovation in such areas as architecture, planning, industrial design, mechanical manufacturing, internet, healthcare and rehabilitation, social science.

Ⅲ. Talent Training and Discipline Construction: managing research resources connecting with governments, the society and markets, and supporting discipline construction and talent training programs.

Ⅳ. Social coordination and idea diffusion: Supporting the research and activities in which NPOs, NGOs and other social groups involve, raising the awareness and visibility of accessibility, and strengthening social participation through education and training, public welfare activities, and industry cooperation.

Organizational Structure