What does it take to ensure that research and development truly reach those who are most often left behind?

This important question brought together researchers, practitioners, community organisations and development partners at the recent SAPPHIRE GEDSI Workshop, funded by DFAT and facilitated by The University of Sydney Vietnam Institute (SVI). More than a discussion on Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), the workshop served as a platform to explore how inclusion can be translated into tangible action and lasting impact.

Across sectors, participants shared a common challenge: while inclusion is widely recognised as essential, it is often difficult to embed meaningfully into research, policy and program implementation. Discussions highlighted that effective GEDSI approaches require more than consultation. They require listening to communities, understanding the barriers they face, and ensuring that diverse voices help shape decisions from the outset.

A key outcome of the workshop was the collective recognition that no single organisation can address these challenges alone. Participants expressed strong interest in establishing a Vietnam GEDSI Community of Practice, creating a shared space for organisations to exchange knowledge, learn from one another, and develop collaborative solutions to advance inclusion across sectors.

The workshop also reinforced an important shift in thinking: moving beyond asking who is being left behind to understanding why. By exploring the underlying social, cultural and structural barriers that limit participation and access, organisations can design programs that are not only more inclusive, but also more effective, equitable and sustainable.

For SVI, this work reflects a broader commitment to translating research into real-world impact. Through the workshop, SVI introduced its AIRE (Accessing, Including and Reaching Everyone) framework, an approach that supports researchers and development practitioners to identify exclusion, understand its causes, and develop practical responses that ensure no community is overlooked.

Beyond facilitating dialogue, SVI plays an important convening role by connecting researchers, policymakers, implementers and communities around shared challenges and opportunities. By fostering partnerships and encouraging cross-sector collaboration, SVI helps create the conditions needed for evidence to inform action and for inclusive practices to be embedded into programs from the very beginning.

The momentum generated through the workshop marks an important step towards a stronger GEDSI ecosystem in Vietnam. Looking ahead, SVI will continue working with partners to strengthen capacity, support the development of a national GEDSI Community of Practice, and champion approaches that place inclusion at the centre of research and development.

Because meaningful impact is achieved not simply by reaching more people, but by ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute and benefit.