A high-level session titled “Global Gaps in Inclusive Physical Education: Time for Real Change” will take place on Wednesday, 18 June 2025, from 11:00 to 12:30 at Plenary Room 1, during the International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity (ISAPA 2025) at the MTU Kerry Campus. The panel is organized by the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education (ICSSPE) and will focus on the persistent disconnect between global policy commitments and the lived reality of students with disabilities in physical education (PE) settings.

While international frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) call for inclusive and equitable education, inclusive PE remains inconsistently implemented worldwide. Barriers such as insufficient teacher training, non-adapted curricula, and inaccessible environments continue to limit the participation of students with disabilities in meaningful physical activity.

The panel brings together internationally recognized speakers from diverse regions:

  • Patrick Stolpmann (Germany), Executive Director of ICSSPE, will contribute perspectives on systemic change and policy implementation from the global sport context.

  • Prof. Dr. Gudrun Doll-Tepper (Germany), from Freie Universität Berlin, will provide insight into the academic and institutional advances in inclusive education.

  • Prof. Dr. Omar Hindawi (Jordan), of the Jordan Paralympic Committee, will address regional challenges and progress in the Middle East.

  • Prof. Tomoyasu Yasui (Japan), from Hokkaido University of Education, will highlight Japan’s approach to inclusive PE in a broader international context.

  • Liezel Gouws (South Africa), international para-athlete and speaker, will share her lived experience and advocacy work, reinforcing the importance of inclusive sport from both personal and societal perspectives.

The session will feature keynote remarks, a panel discussion identifying global barriers and innovations, an interactive audience Q&A, and a closing call to action. It aligns with CRPD Articles 24, 30, and 32 and with SDGs 4, 10, and 17.

ISAPA 2025 encourages researchers, educators, policymakers, and practitioners to attend this session to explore evidence-based strategies, strengthen professional training and policy frameworks, and promote international collaboration for inclusive physical education.

For more information, visit: www.isapa2025.com