A domestically developed rehabilitation exoskeleton created by researchers at Nazarbayev University has completed state registration and is ready for mass production, QazMonitor reports.
The Astana Gait Exoskeleton Assisted Rehabilitation (A.GEAR) device is designed for use in post-stroke rehabilitation and for patients with musculoskeletal disorders. It received regulatory approval following a review by Kazakhstan’s National Center for Expertise of Medicines and Medical Devices (NDDA).
According to the developers, A.GEAR is several times cheaper than imported rehabilitation systems, which could expand access to robotic rehabilitation technologies and reduce reliance on foreign equipment in Kazakhstan’s healthcare system.
The project was launched in late 2021 at the Center for Excellence in Medical Robotics & Research at Nazarbayev University. Commercialization is being handled by Robotics and Artificial Intelligence LLP, headed by NU graduate Shyngys Dauletbayev.
Clinical trials were conducted in medical centers in Astana and Karaganda, involving stroke patients and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Following technical and clinical validation, preparations began for a long-term supply agreement with SK-Pharmacy, as well as the search for a distribution partner.
Robotics and Artificial Intelligence plans to manufacture at least five exoskeleton units in 2026 at the Nazarbayev University Technopark, with production capacity expected to increase as deliveries to medical institutions expand.
