Latvian Paralympic Committee and RSU LASE agree on closer collaboration in parasports

Photo: Courtesy of the Latvian Paralympic Committee

During the meeting, it was discussed how to provide students with opportunities to acquire knowledge and practical experience about people with functional disabilities and their involvement in sports, especially in the fields of sports science, physiotherapy, public health, and physical activity. It was emphasised that such an educational approach not only increases awareness of an inclusive society but also enhances the competence of professionals working with people with disabilities.

 Collaboration strengthens the university’s social responsibility 

‘Parasports is not just competition, but a story about equal opportunities, inspiration, and the ability to see the person rather than their limitations. We are delighted that the Director of the RSU Latvian Academy of Sport Education sees this topic as an essential part of higher education and the professional development of future specialists’, emphasised Daiga Dadzīte, President of the Latvian Paralympic Committee.

Meanwhile, RSU LASE Director Diāna Laipniece noted that this cooperation will help strengthen the university’s social responsibility and provide students with an even broader perspective on human health, movement, and quality of life.

Integrating parasports into study content

‘Integrating parasports into study content is an important step toward inclusive education in the field of sports.

It will enhance students’ understanding of different abilities and needs, as well as strengthen their professional competence when working with a diverse variety of social groups,’ emphasises Diāna Laipniece.

‘Students will have the opportunity not only to learn theoretical knowledge about the development of parasports, but also to experience in practice how sports activities can be adapted for people with various functional disabilities.

This will broaden their understanding of the role of sports pedagogy and coaching in promoting public health’, says Inese Ļubinska, Head of the RSU Sports Study Field.

Practical classes and knowledge about parasports will be included in the bachelor’s and short-cycle programmes of the Sports study field.

Agreement on future cooperation 

At the end of the meeting, both parties agreed on a plan for future cooperation, which will include guest lectures, joint workshops, and practical classes with parasports athletes and coaches. 

The Latvian Paralympic Committee continues its work on educating the public about inclusive sports and the development of parasports in Latvia by implementing various educational and social projects in cooperation with state and academic institutions.