Kyiv, 31 October 2023 – As a result of the ongoing war in Ukraine, there has been a significant rise in the number of individuals living with disabilities. Adjusting to disabilities often requires learning new skills. Recognizing this, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine has collaborated with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine (MIA) to train specialized driving instructors. These trainers, based in territorial service centres and driving schools at higher education institutions, are equipped to impart driving skills to people with disabilities.

Generously funded by the Government of Japan, this initiative has already trained 28 instructors across several Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kropyvnytskyi, Lviv, Kamianets-Podilskyi, and Odesa. The comprehensive training covers modern perspectives on disability, ethical communication, the significance of assistive technologies in driver education, and best practices for supporting and aiding students.

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Christophoros Politis emphasized that UNDP's support to the 'Inclusive Driving School' initiative is part of the Organization's overall contribution to advancing inclusivity in Ukraine's recovery process and barrier-free policies and strategies. 

"Inclusivity is at the core of our vision of Ukraine's recovery, going beyond mere rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure. UNDP's cooperation with the Government of Japan is anchored in promoting human security through empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, improving their accessibility to services and ensuring one would be left behind.  We remain committed to advancing recovery priorities in a transparent, accountable, green and inclusive manner."

Deputy Head of Minister of Internal Affairs Kateryna Pavlichenko added that MIA Driving schools are setting a trend for accessibility in Ukraine. Thus, instructors and examiners must understand the needs of individuals with disabilities to feel ready to assist.

"Approximately fifty people with disabilities are enrolled in driving schools. Some of them are our defenders. The first students have already received their driver's licenses. It gives confidence that physical barriers can be overcome," noted Katerina Pavlichenko.

Background:

The "Inclusive Driving Schools" initiative stands as the Ministry of Internal Affairs' flagship project, aligned with the nationwide "Without Barriers" campaign championed by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska. This campaign seeks to ensure equal opportunities for everyone, including individuals with disabilities, to learn driving skills and secure a driver's license. This training is part of the 'Promotion of Human Security in Ukraine' project, addressing the multifaceted crisis brought on by the war, and is generously funded by the Government of Japan.

Media enquiries:

Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org