The FISU World Forum has concluded in Costa Rica ©FISU

The 16th edition of the International University Sports Federation (FISU) World Forum has reached its conclusion in Costa Rica after a week of sessions on themes such as sustainability, gender equality, wellbeing, health, and reducing inequalities.

A total of 160 people from 45 countries took part in Cartago while more participated online.

The 2024 edition of the event is set to take place in the Croatian capital of Zagreb.

"The FISU World Forum is a space for participants to benefit from the many opportunities for exchange, contribute with their experiences, take an active part in all the events and get in touch with each other," said FISU Acting President Leonz Eder. 

In between the workshops, participants were taken out to enjoy the local scenery as they visited the Volcan Irazu National Park.

Following that, gender equality headed the agenda.


Speakers included Gisselle Burbano, UNESCO Specialist, Rosaura Mendez Gamboa, a member of FISU's Executive Committee, Arnaud Richard, a member of FISU's Education Committee, and Marissa Langeni, chief executive of University Sport South Africa.

"Feminine sports must receive special attention, we must develop programmes encouraging team spirit, networking, help students love sport, otherwise young girls will continue to reject sports for other activities," said Rosaura Menez Gamboa.

Lengini also weighed in, saying "sport is projected as a product positioned as a male activity."

"Very early, young girls are exposed to male sports only," she continued.

"So the visibility of female sports is absolutely critical to change their perception."