For some, a driver’s license is just another document. For Vitalii Izirskyi, it represents freedom, independence, and yet another personal victory.
On 29 July, a graduate of the Barrier-Free Driving School at Odesa State University of Internal Affairs (OSUIA) successfully passed the practical driving test at an Odesa Ministry of Internal Affairs Service Centre and received his driver’s license.
Vitalii is 25 years old and has lived with a Group II disability since childhood. He is actively engaged in rehabilitation and regular training. He is also the Ukrainian champion in Yal boat rowing and the first athlete in Ukraine with his diagnosis to compete in this discipline at the national championship.
He learned about the opportunity to study at the OSUIA Barrier-Free Driving School from its former graduates. He says he had been following the project for a long time because obtaining a driver’s license had always been his dream.
“I had been waiting for this opportunity for a very long time. I really wanted to study, so I kept following the updates. When I met people who had already completed the programme, they recommended that I apply here,” says Vitalii.
He completed both the theoretical and practical training at the OSUIA Barrier-Free Driving School. According to the graduate, the support of his instructors and teachers helped him gain confidence in his abilities.
“The hardest part was overcoming my anxiety. But when your teacher and instructor tell you that you can do it, you calm down, focus, and simply keep moving forward.”
Today, Vitalii is already making new plans. First and foremost, he wants to travel more around Ukraine, drive himself to training sessions, rehabilitation appointments, and competitions without having to rely on public transport or the assistance of others.
“A driver’s license means freedom of movement. I can plan my own day, get behind the wheel, and go wherever I need to. For me, it is much more than just a plastic card. I know its true value.”
Vitalii believes that Barrier-Free Driving Schools are opening up new opportunities for people with disabilities and veterans. Most importantly, they create a genuine sense of equality.
“At OSUIA, I felt that I was on an equal footing with everyone else. People study, take exams and so do you. Everyone has the opportunity to drive a car, and so do you.”
Through his own example, he encourages others not to give up on their dreams because of fear or self-doubt.
“The most important thing is to believe in yourself. If you have a goal, keep moving towards it one small step at a time. There was a time when people told me it was impossible. Today, I am holding my driver’s license in my hands. So, to everyone who is still hesitating, I want to say: give it a try. Everything is possible.”
Vitalii’s story is yet another reminder that barrier-free accessibility is about much more than physical access. It is about creating opportunities to learn, grow, achieve one’s goals, and live an independent life.
Unit of Communication of the OSUIA