Kyiv, 27 March, 2025 – Ukraine has taken a major step forward in inclusive rehabilitation with the completion of the country’s first specialized training course for coaches on adaptive sports to support individuals affected by explosive ordnance and war-related trauma.

The two-day training course, held in Kyiv, was organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine with financial support from the Government of Spain and in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine and the “Sport for All” state institution.

The initiative brought together 26 trainers from frontline and war-affected regions, including Mykolaiv, Kherson, and Kharkiv oblasts. These professionals work directly with people with disabilities, including war veterans and civilians injured by explosive devices. The training course aimed to strengthen their capacity to provide high-quality physical rehabilitation through adaptive sports — a powerful tool for physical, psychological, and social recovery.

The first day of training focused on theory, including inclusive coaching methods, ethical engagement with people with disabilities, and best practices in rehabilitation. On the second day, participants engaged in hands-on demonstrations of adaptive sports exercises tailored to different types of impairments, which was hosted by the Ivan Piddubny Olympic College.

A highlight of the event was the handover of specialized sports equipment to support adaptive training sessions in affected communities. The kits include TRX loops, speed ladders, grip rings, jump ropes, fitness expander sets, and more — tools that will allow trainers to implement inclusive rehabilitation programmes in local adaptive sports clubs.

“This training is more than just knowledge-sharing – it’s a call to action,” noted Christophoros Politis, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Ukraine, during the official handover ceremony. “The equipment we’re providing today is not only functional but symbolic of our shared commitment to an inclusive recovery. Adaptive sports offer more than physical rehabilitation — they offer hope, connection, and purpose for individuals rebuilding their lives after trauma.”

Beyond skills and equipment, the event helped reframe how sports are perceived in the context of rehabilitation. Speakers at the event emphasized that physical activity is not only about fitness, but also about regaining confidence, rebuilding identity, and reintegrating into social life.

“A Barrier-Free Ukraine is not just about ramps or accessible infrastructure — it’s about ensuring that everyone, each and every person, can access work, education, and sports activities,” said Tetiana Lomakina, Advisor – Presidential Commissioner for Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine. “Through initiatives like this, we demonstrate that every individual — regardless of their physical condition or life experience — can be included in active life and fully participate in community life. Adaptive sports create a space where the inclusion of everyone who wishes to take part becomes not just an intention, but a daily reality.” 

The training course also underscored the importance of coordinated partnerships between government and international organizations in addressing the growing rehabilitation needs in Ukraine. As the number of people living with disabilities caused by war continues to rise, investing in local capacities becomes crucial.

“The Ministry of Youth and Sports remains fully committed to ensuring access to inclusive and adaptive sports throughout Ukraine,” emphasized Matvii Bidnyi, Minister of Youth and Sports of Ukraine. “This training — the first of its kind — represents an important model for how we can build local expertise and deliver real change on the ground. We’re proud to work alongside UNDP and the Government of Spain in expanding opportunities for recovery, resilience, and dignity.”

With the war in Ukraine leaving thousands of people with life-changing injuries, the demand for comprehensive rehabilitation is growing every day. While medical care is essential, physical activity, adapted to people’s individual needs, has proven to be one of the most effective ways to restore not only strength and mobility, but also confidence, dignity, and a sense of social belonging.

This training course serves as a starting point for building a nationwide network of specialists who can deliver inclusive rehabilitation where it is needed most. By investing in people — their skills, their capacity, and their communities — the initiative lays the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience across Ukraine.

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