PHYSICAL EDUCATION AS A CATALYST FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN EDUCATION

Rezumat

Background. This study investigates the interconnection between physical education and educational performance in Romania, contextualized within Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4 – Quality Education). Recognizing that physical activity supports cognitive development, emotional regulation, and academic engagement, the research explores how structured physical education can contribute to improved learning outcomes and sustainable educational progress. The Romanian context presents a mixed landscape, where formal inclusion of physical education in school curricula is undermined by infrastructural disparities and socio-cultural undervaluation of sport as an academic enhancer. 
Objectives. The objective of the study is to evaluate the extent to which participation in physical activity correlates with academic achievement, using indicators from the Romania Durabilă platform and Eurostat. Specific attention is given to early school leaving rates, tertiary education attainment, and adult participation in learning, alongside physical activity frequencies disaggregated by age, gender, and education level. The research also aims to assess whether greater investment in physical education infrastructure could serve as a catalyst for improved educational and health outcomes.
Methods. The methodology adopts a mixed-methods approach, primarily descriptive and comparative, analyzing national and  European datasets spanning from 2014 to 2024. The study integrates statistical findings with contextual interpretation to identify patterns and potential causal relationships.
Results. The results show a positive correlation between educational attainment and levels of physical activity, with individuals holding tertiary degrees more likely to engage in regular exercise. Rising trends in higher education enrollment and adult learning are mirrored by increased health-oriented behaviors.
However, early school leaving remains a concern, particularly among certain gender groups, and physical activity participation remains low across several demographics.
Conclusion. In conclusion, the study highlights a synergistic relationship between physical education and learning outcomes. It calls for integrated public policies that prioritize physical education as a core component of sustainable educational reform. Enhancing infrastructure, promoting lifelong learning, and embedding health awareness in education strategies are essential steps toward achieving SDG 4 in Romania.