The Centre for Digital Language Inclusion (CDLI)

Advancing non-standard speech in Automatic Speech Recognition

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About

Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) is transforming the ability of people with non-standard speech to communicate. The prevalence of mobile devices, alongside free to access apps are making ASR accessible, convenient and less stigmatising for people with slurred or difficult-to-understand speech.

The Centre for Digital Language Inclusion (CDLI) is pioneering inclusive ASR solutions for people with non-standard speech around the world.

Research

AI-powered communication tools have the potential to transform lives. Yet, many in Africa with non-standard speech lack access to this technology or traditional speech therapy.

The Centre for Digital Language Inclusion will advance digital language inclusion by:

Ensuring all languages and types of speech are supported by technology.
Developing inclusive solutions for people with communication difficulty.
Ensuring people know and can use the technology available to them.

Impact

Harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) these communication solutions have the potential to change lives.

Currently this technology is not available to those who would most benefit - non-English speaking populations in African countries, who often have the least access to traditional assistive technology and speech and language therapy.

First Steps

Collecting datasets of non-standard speech for 10 African languages, the CDLI will build ASR models, develop AI-driven inclusive communication technologies and train others in the use of this innovative technology.

A proven method of communication once language models are created, this is the first time non-standard speech will have been collected for ASR in native African languages, enabling the millions most in need of inclusive communication technology to access these new solutions.

News & Events

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Highlight

Enhancing Communication Equity: Evaluation of an Automated Speech Recognition Application in Ghana

GDI Hub's Academic Research Centre and the AT2030 programme recent award winning paper is showcasing how Mobile as AT is continuing to emerge as a dynamic opportunity to change lives.

Can AI help Africa close the development gap?

Financial Times piece explores how our AT2030 programme has tested the Google Relate app

Google, University of Ghana and GDI Hub to Collaborate

Google, University of Ghana and GDI Hub will collaborate to Expand AI-Powered Speech Recognition for Non-Standard Speech in Ghanaian Languages