How a Nigerian student's smart glove is turning sign language into speech
A Nigerian university student has developed an innovative wearable device that could transform communication for people with speech and hearing impairments.
Muhammad Habib Husaini, a student in the Department of Computer and Communications Engineering at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi, has created the NHED Smart Glove—a custom-built device that translates sign language into spoken words in real time.
The glove works using pressure sensors and a microcontroller to detect specific hand and finger movements. Once gestures are recognised, the system translates them into audible speech, allowing sign language users to communicate directly with those who do not understand sign language.
Footage released Monday shows Husaini working on the glove from his university dormitory and attending lectures, balancing his studies with the ongoing development of the prototype.
“The inspiration behind the NHED Smart Glove is actually my immediate younger sister,” Husaini said. “She was born without the ability to speak."
Despite limited access to materials and equipment, Husaini continued to develop the project with support from peers and a deep personal drive to improve communication for people with speech impairments.
“People with special abilities are living evidence that limits can lead, if only they have the right aid or the right resources to project their abilities,” he explained.
The current version of the glove can recognise and interpret gestures involving five fingers. However, Husaini is already working on a second version that would expand functionality to 10-finger input, allowing for a wider vocabulary and more accurate communication.
His lecturer, Dr Isah Yakub Mohammed, praised Husaini’s commitment and believes his innovation could go even further.
"With the way the boy is going, I think there are a lot of things that he can come up with—particularly solutions that will help people with disabilities,” he said.
The NHED Smart Glove has been featured by local media and is gaining attention for its potential to help thousands of people across Nigeria and beyond.
Although comprehensive national statistics on speech impairment are lacking, various studies estimate that 30 to 44.4 percent of people in Nigeria experience some form of speech disorder, with children representing a significant portion of these cases.
By offering a functional and accessible communication tool, Husaini’s invention could provide a major breakthrough for individuals who rely on sign language to engage with the world.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
