Auckland, New Zealand, is set to host a pivotal gathering of minds in the fields of physical education and sport as the 23rd Biennial Conference of the International Society for Comparative Physical Education and Sport (ISCPES) convenes from December 1st to 4th, 2025. With its overarching theme, “Advancing Global Well-being through Physical Education and Sport,” the conference promises to be a vibrant forum for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to exchange ideas and explore innovative approaches to enhance human health and societal flourishing worldwide.
The ISCPES, founded in 1978, has a rich history of fostering international collaboration and research in comparative physical education and sport. Its biennial conferences serve as crucial platforms for disseminating cutting-edge research, discussing emerging trends, and forging partnerships that transcend geographical boundaries. The choice of Auckland as the host city marks a significant milestone, being the first time the conference will be held in Oceania, further solidifying ISCPES’s global reach and commitment to diverse perspectives. The Auckland University of Technology (AUT) will serve as the primary venue, providing a fitting academic backdrop for the intellectual exchange.
A testament to the truly international scope of this event, delegates have already confirmed their attendance from an impressive 32 different countries. This diverse representation promises a rich tapestry of cultural insights and academic perspectives, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment for dialogue and collaboration. For New Zealand professionals in physical education and sport, this presents an unparalleled opportunity to engage with leading international experts, share their own research and practices, and build valuable global networks right on their doorstep. Furthermore, hosting an event of this magnitude allows New Zealand to showcase its innovative approaches, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural heritage to a discerning international audience.
The conference theme, “Advancing Global Well-being through Physical Education and Sport,” reflects the growing recognition of physical activity’s multifaceted contributions to individual and community health. This expansive theme is further elaborated through seven key sub-themes, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the field:
- Diversity and Inclusion in Physical Education and Sport: This sub-theme delves into promoting equity, accessibility, and addressing the needs of marginalized groups, emphasizing the celebratory aspect of diversity in physical activity.
- Physical Education Curriculum for the 21st Century: Discussions will focus on integrating technology, developing critical thinking, fostering lifelong physical activity habits, and adapting curricula to diverse learning styles.
- Sport for Youth Development: This area explores the role of sport in character building, promoting mental health, combating youth violence, and empowering young people through leadership opportunities.
- Indigenous Education: A crucial focus will be on incorporating Indigenous knowledge and culture, promoting Indigenous physical activities, and addressing the unique health needs of Indigenous communities.
- Physical Activity and Health: This sub-theme examines the impact of physical inactivity, the role of physical education in chronic disease prevention, and the benefits of physical activity for cognitive function.
- Innovation in Physical Education and Sport: This stream will showcase emerging technologies, innovative teaching and coaching methods, and new approaches to sport development and management.
- Physical Literacy: Delegates will explore the development of fundamental movement skills, promoting physical literacy for lifelong health, and integrating it into curricula.
For those eager to contribute to this vital discourse, the abstract submission window is currently open, with a deadline of June 30, 2025. This offers a unique opportunity for researchers, academics, and practitioners to share their insights and findings with an international audience. Submissions should be in English, original work, and adhere to APA (7th Edition) formatting guidelines, with a maximum word limit of 300 words. Importantly, each main author may submit up to two abstracts, with preference given to the best submission if both are accepted.
Beyond the prestige of presenting at an international conference, selected papers from the 23rd Biennial ISCPES Conference will have further opportunities for publication. Outstanding contributions will be eligible for prizes, recognizing excellence in research. Furthermore, selected papers will be invited for publication in the esteemed International Sport Studies Journal, the official journal of ISCPES, known for its scholarly depth and global reach. Additionally, a special edition book, aligned with the conference’s central theme of “Advancing Global Well-being through Physical Education and Sport,” will feature a curated selection of papers, ensuring a lasting legacy of the conference’s impact.
The 23rd Biennial ISCPES Conference is more than just an academic event; it is a global call to action. By bringing together diverse perspectives and fostering collaborative initiatives, the conference aims to generate new knowledge, inspire innovative practices, and ultimately contribute to a healthier, more active, and inclusive world through the power of physical education and sport. As the abstract submission deadline draws near, prospective attendees are encouraged to visit http://www.iscpes2025.nz for comprehensive details on registration, accommodation, and the full scope of this exciting international gathering.
Thomas Education NZ 