As part of the UniSport Finals 2026, the final event of the academic sports season held in Poreč from May 28 to 31, the fourth edition of the international scientific conference “4 Healthy Academic Society” (4HAS) was successfully concluded. Over the course of two days, the conference brought together national and international experts, researchers, educators, students, and representatives of sports organizations with the aim of exchanging knowledge and experiences while promoting a healthier and more resilient academic environment.
This year’s edition of the conference was dedicated to mental health and well-being within the academic community. At a time marked by constant pressure, fast-paced lifestyles, and the challenges of balancing numerous responsibilities, mental health has become one of the most important topics of modern society. Students, student-athletes, and university staff are increasingly exposed to stress, anxiety, and burnout, making it essential to create space for interdisciplinary dialogue on the role of sport, physical activity, science, and public policy in preserving mental well-being.
The conference programme featured a series of lectures by distinguished national and international experts, as well as presentations of scientific and professional papers focusing on the impact of physical activity on mental health and stress resilience, the prevention of anxiety and burnout through sport and recreation, the relationship between sleep, exercise, and psychological stability, and the development of dual careers for athletes. Special attention was also given to issues of safety, sustainability, and the application of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in academic sport.
Among the distinguished keynote speakers were Prof. Suzanne Babich from Indiana University Indianapolis, an expert in public health, nutrition, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles; Associate Professor Chiara D’Angelo and Professor Caterina Gozzoli from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, who presented current research on psychological well-being, group dynamics, and mental health in sport and education; Professor Holger Preuss from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, one of the leading experts in sport management, sustainability, and the legacy of sporting events; and Professor Kerry Stephen Seiler from the University of Agder, Norway, whose work focuses on sport psychology, physical activity, and health. The Croatian academic community was represented by Assistant Professor Hrvoje Sivrić from the University of Slavonski Brod, who discussed the relationship between physical activity, health, and education.
Special attention was devoted to student health, including the well-being of students with disabilities, as well as issues related to safety, sustainability, and the implementation of new technologies in sport. Through numerous lectures, discussions, and paper presentations, participants had the opportunity to explore the latest research findings and examples of good practice, while also developing new ideas for future scientific and professional collaborations. Once again, the conference confirmed the importance of connecting science, education, healthcare, and sport in creating a higher-quality academic environment.
With the conclusion of the fourth edition of the “4 Healthy Academic Society” conference, its role as a unique platform for interdisciplinary cooperation and international knowledge exchange has been further reinforced. The Croatian Academic Sports Federation remains committed to developing initiatives that promote health, quality of life, and the sustainable development of the academic community, guided by the belief that sport, physical activity, and mental well-being are essential foundations of a successful and resilient society.
We would like to thank all speakers, authors, reviewers, and participants whose contributions made another successful edition of the conference possible, as well as the Organizing Committee for their dedication and hard work in delivering this international scientific event.
See you at the fifth edition!
