From Policy to Practice: Global Gaps in Inclusive Physical Education — A Call for Real Change

As the global conversation on equity and inclusion intensifies, ISAPA 2025 is proud to host a landmark panel, presented by the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education (ICSSPE), titled:

“Global Gaps in Inclusive Physical Education: Time for Real Change”

🗓 Wednesday, 18 June 2025

🕚 11:00 – 12:30

📍 Plenary Room 1, ISAPA 2025, MTU Kerry Campus

🌐 www.isapa2025.com

Despite the promises of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inclusive physical education (PE) remains more aspiration than action in many parts of the world. Too often, students with disabilities are sidelined due to lack of training, inclusive curricula, and accessible environments.

This urgent and timely panel brings together global thought leaders who will move beyond rhetoric to explore practical solutions and concrete steps toward achieving inclusive PE as a universal standard.

🔊 Confirmed Speakers: 

• Patrick Stolpmann (Germany)

  Executive Director, ICSSPE

  A leading advocate for Diversity & Inclusion, Patrick brings decades of global experience from the Paralympic Movement and sport policy, offering a sharp lens on systemic change. 

  
  

• Prof. Dr. Gudrun Doll-Tepper (Germany)

  Freie Universität Berlin

  Internationally recognised for her pioneering work in inclusive education, Dr. Doll-Tepper will share insights from decades of academic and institutional leadership.

  
  

• Prof. Dr. Omar Hindawi (Jordan)

  Jordan Paralympic Committee

  A long-time advocate for access to sport in the Middle East, Dr. Hindawi will bring regional perspectives to global policy gaps.

• Prof. Tomoyasu Yasui (Japan)

  Hokkaido University of Education Combining Eastern perspectives with global trends, Dr. Yasui will share Japan’s evolving approach to disability-inclusive physical activity.
  

• Liezel Gouws (South Africa)

  International para-athlete and motivational speaker

  Liezel's lived experience and professional advocacy make her a powerful addition to the panel. As both a world-class athlete and disability rights ambassador, she embodies the transformational power of inclusive sport. 
  

  🧭 Session Format:

  • Opening remarks & keynote: Scene-setting with the latest data and trends.

  • Panel discussion: From identifying barriers to spotlighting global innovations.

  • Audience Q&A: Engage directly with panellists.

  • Closing call to action: Towards a truly inclusive global PE landscape.

  This session aligns closely with the CRPD Articles 24, 30, and 32, and SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)

  
  

🎯 Key Takeaways:

✅ Insights on global inequities and practical reform ✅ Strategies to strengthen teacher training and policy frameworks ✅ New models of international collaboration ✅ Motivation to act from those who’ve lived the exclusion—and led the change

This is not just a panel. It’s a catalyst.

Join us on 18 June in Plenary Room 1 as we push the boundaries of what’s possible in inclusive physical education. Let’s turn commitment into action.