Promoting Inclusion Through Sport: ENGSO Youth at the National Day of Sport and Disability
On the 18th of March ENGSO Youth’s Committee member, Augustine Libert, took part in the Journée Nationale du Sport et du Handicap (National Day of Sport and Disability), organised by ANESTAPS (National Association of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Students) - a nationwide initiative dedicated to promoting inclusion, accessibility, and participation in sport for people with disabilities.
The day began with practical parasport activities, allowing participants to experience adaptive sport firsthand. This was followed by a roundtable discussion bringing together students, experts, and practitioners to exchange ideas on building a more inclusive sport ecosystem. The discussions highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, the sharing of good practices, and the need to involve people with disabilities directly in shaping solutions. The “Sport for All” approach presented by the Council of Europe was referenced as an important example in this context.
In the afternoon, discussions continued in thematic workshops, including one dedicated to a key question: How to make training pathways more accessible for people with disabilities. Participants explored practical solutions, particularly in relation to digital accessibility and improving the usability of online learning platforms. A powerful testimony from a para-fencing student highlighted the barriers that still exist, reinforcing the importance of adapting education systems to ensure equal access.
A central takeaway from the day was the importance of integrating parasport into initial sport training and equipping all future professionals with an inclusive mindset, regardless of the audiences they work with. Developing this shared culture of accessibility and adaptability is essential for creating more inclusive sport environments.
ENGSO Youth remains committed to promoting inclusion, equal opportunities, and accessible pathways in sport, ensuring that all young people can participate, develop, and thrive.
We thank ANESTAPS for the invitation and for organising such an insightful and impactful event.