Tralee is the global centre of inclusive sport and physical activity this week as Munster Technological University (MTU) hosts the 25th International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity (ISAPA).

The prestigious event is taking place until Friday at MTU’s Kerry North Campus and is expected to draw over 600 delegates from around the world.

Held under the patronage of UNESCO, ISAPA is the world’s leading conference on adapted physical activity, bringing together researchers, educators, policymakers, and practitioners dedicated to expanding access to sport for people with disabilities.

This is the first time Ireland has hosted the event, highlighting MTU’s growing international leadership in inclusive sport research and policy.

ISAPA 2025 features a packed programme that goes well beyond academic sessions.

Alongside the main symposium, the conference is hosting a series of specialised events, including a symposium focused on visual impairment and deafblindness, a mental health summit exploring the role of physical activity in holistic care, and an international policy consultation led by UNESCO.

A major trade exhibition is also running throughout the week, showcasing the latest innovations in adapted sports equipment and inclusive programming.

The conference theme, “Furthest Behind First,” will place a particular emphasis on equity, with a focus on ensuring access for individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental health challenges, and sensory impairments.

The goal is to create meaningful pathways into sport and physical activity for those who are most often excluded.

The selection of MTU Kerry as the host venue reflects the university’s decade-long work through its UNESCO Chair in Transforming the Lives of People with Disabilities through Physical Education, Sport, Fitness and Recreation.

Established in 2013, the Chair has played a pivotal role in driving inclusive sports initiatives across Ireland and Europe. Its work was a key factor in securing ISAPA for Ireland at the 2023 symposium in New Zealand.

Catherine Carty, UNESCO Chair Manager at MTU, said hosting ISAPA is a major moment for Irish leadership in inclusive sport. “This event places Ireland at the heart of a global conversation about access, equity and participation,” he said.

“It’s an opportunity not only to learn from the best international practices but also to showcase the work being done here at home.”

 

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This is a brilliant gathering of people making a real difference and having an impact on how people with a disability are engaging in sport and physical activity every day of the week.  We are delighted to highlight the work being done and will spotlight much of it as part of our Sport for Social Good Conference in October.
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