Santiago de Chile, November 28, 2025 — Cuba participated in the International Forum on Inclusive Sport and Physical Education 2025, organized by UNESCO in cooperation with the Government of Chile and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), on November 27 and 28. This high-level forum was dedicated to promoting inclusive, equitable, and safe sport and physical education as tools to eliminate barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The Cuban delegation was represented by José Cedeño Tamayo, Director General of Physical Education and Sport for All at the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation (INDER), who participated as a panelist in the session titled “Inclusive Physical Education: Empowering Coaches and Teachers.” On this occasion, he highlighted the importance of continuous training and capacity building as essential elements to guarantee effective inclusion in the sports and educational fields.
During his presentation, the Cuban representative shared the country's experiences and strengths in this area. These include the institutional leadership of the Special Olympics movement, co-directed by the Ministry of Education and INDER; the permanent updating and provision of methodological tools for sports educators, based on references and guidelines promoted by UNESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector; as well as the role of the Special Olympics movement in Cuba as the primary source for the development of Paralympics on the island.
The forum also highlighted the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UNESCO and the Americas Paralympic Committee, considered a significant step for strengthening regional cooperation in favor of inclusive sport.
The event also facilitated direct exchanges with girls, boys, and young athletes from Special Olympics through inclusive sports activities, promoting values of equality, respect, and participation.
Through its participation, Cuba reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sport for all, leaving no one behind.