Content area

Abstract

This article explores the relationship between higher sports education and employability through the framework of human capital development based on theories of human, social, and cultural capital. Using a narrative review methodology, the study synthesizes interdisciplinary research from economics, education policy, and sports science to examine how education facilitates labor market integration within the context of economic development. The analysis focuses on four thematic areas: (a) the contribution of higher sports education to employability, (b) the role of dual careers and lifelong learning in enhancing human capital value, (c) entrepreneurship as a driver of innovation, and (d) the influence of educational policy and institutional strategies on professional integration. The study highlights how sports education fosters both technical and transferable skills, enhancing adaptability, productivity and economic performance. A SWOT analysis identifies internal strengths and weaknesses of educational systems and external opportunities and threats from labour market trends and technological advancements. The findings underscore the necessity of aligning curricula with labour market needs, supporting dual career paths and integrating entrepreneurship into academic programs. Strategic policy proposals include fostering collaboration among educational institutions, sports organizations and industry stakeholders to better prepare graduates for a competitive labour market. Additionally, the article emphasizes the need for institutional reforms that promote innovation and interdisciplinary in sports education. Future research should explore the economic outcomes of sports education programs, the impact of investments in sports infrastructure and the role of higher education in emerging areas such as esports and sports technology. Overall, sports education is positioned as a strategic tool for both personal development and economic growth.

Details

1009240
Title
Economic development and education: Exploring the dynamic relationship between education and employability in the sports sector
Author
Karaiskos, Leonidas 1 ; Dimopoulou, Irene 2 ; Manasis, Vasileios 3 ; Drikos, Sotirios 3 

 Directorate of Primary Education of Athens, Ministry of Education, GREECE 
 Directorate of Primary Education of Chios, Ministry of Education, GREECE 
 School of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, GREECE 
Publication title
Volume
25
Issue
8
Pages
1764-1777
Number of pages
15
Publication year
2025
Publication date
Aug 2025
Section
Original Article
Publisher
Universitatea din Pitesti
Place of publication
Pitesti
Country of publication
Romania
ISSN
22478051
e-ISSN
2247806X
Source type
Scholarly Journal
Language of publication
English
Document type
Journal Article
ProQuest document ID
3265962893
Document URL
https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/economic-development-education-exploring-dynamic/docview/3265962893/se-2?accountid=208611
Copyright
© 2025. This work is published under https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/ (the "License"). Notwithstanding the ProQuest Terms and Conditions, you may use this content in accordance with the terms of the License.
Last updated
2025-12-10
Database
ProQuest One Academic