Kazakh Scientists Launch Medical Exoskeleton for Stroke Rehabilitation

Researchers at Nazarbayev University have completed development and secured state registration for a medical exoskeleton designed to aid stroke rehabilitation. The device is now ready for clinical use and mass production, according to the university’s press service. Named the Astana Gait Exoskeleton Assisted Rehabilitation (A.GEAR), the system is intended to help restore motor function in stroke survivors and individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. It received official certification following a positive evaluation from the National Center for Expertise of Medicines and Medical Devices. Nazarbayev University stated that this is one of the few high-tech medical solutions developed domestically that has received full clinical approval. Cost efficiency is cited as A.GEAR’s main competitive advantage. According to project estimates, the exoskeleton is several times more affordable than foreign alternatives, reducing Kazakhstan’s reliance on imports and increasing accessibility to modern rehabilitation tools. Professor Prashant Jamwal, the project lead, noted that it took just four years to progress from a lab concept to a certified medical product far shorter than the global average of 10 to 15 years. He added that the system could not only replace imported equipment but also reduce public expenditure on rehabilitation technologies. The project began in late 2021 at the university’s Medical Robotics Competence Center. Clinical trials took place in Karaganda and Astana, involving stroke patients and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Following the successful trials, the team began negotiations for a long-term contract with SK-Pharmacy LLP and sought a commercial distributor. Commercialization is being overseen by Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, led by Nazarbayev University graduate Shyngys Dauletbayev. In 2026, the university’s technopark aims to produce at least five exoskeleton units, with plans to scale production for distribution to medical institutions nationwide. University President Professor Waqar Ahmad highlighted that Nazarbayev University researchers rank among the top 2% of scientists globally, based on a bibliometric analysis by Stanford University. According to the Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan, approximately 40,000 people in the country suffer strokes annually, underlining a consistent demand for advanced rehabilitation solutions. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan is also expanding the use of artificial intelligence for early diagnosis of strokes and cancer.