Inter-university inauguration of the academic year in Katowice - European City of Science with the participation of Minister of Science Dariusz Wieczorek
27.09.2024
Katowice solemnly inaugurated the new academic year. The inter-university event brought together the scientific community from across the region. The meeting highlighted not only the importance of academic tradition, but also the innovative potential of this city as an internationally renowned scientific center. The event was attended by Minister Dariusz Wieczorek.
Katowice on the European map of science
During the inauguration, Minister Dariusz Wieczorek stressed the importance of Katowice as the European City of Science 2024, noting how this prestigious award affects the development not only of the region, but also of the entire higher education system in Poland.
“Cooperation has a future. I am impressed when I see joint academic year inauguration ceremonies. I am happy that this is taking place for the third time, and I wish that it takes place every year. We are betting on cooperation, on internationalizing Polish science, on creating larger universities and, when possible, joining together in the name of the development of Polish science,” stated Minister of Science Dariusz Wieczorek.
Inauguration of the new academic year in Katowice
The inaugural ceremonies opened with a traditional march of rector’s processions through the streets of Katowice, attended by representatives of the academic community from across the region. The main part of the event took place at the headquarters of the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra. The agenda included the matriculation and oath of new doctoral students as well as inaugural speeches by the rectors of Silesian universities. The highlight of the entire event were performances by academic choirs and the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra. Of particular note was the inaugural lecture by Professor Norman Davies – one of the most influential historians of our time.
The event under the patronage of the Minister of Science was organized by the universities of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science: Silesian University in Katowice (leader), Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice, Academy of Fine Arts, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Silesian University of Technology, Silesian Medical University in Katowice and University of Economics in Katowice.
“A big applause for the organizers, this is a really big event. A new academic year is ahead of us, and I would like to wish you continued success and development. I wish you to feel satisfaction from what you do as academics, teaching staff and for you get up in the morning and go to your universities with a smile on your face. To students and doctoral students, I wish you to be proud of your universities, your lecturers. So that you can be sure that they do everything to make your diplomas valuable in Poland and abroad,” said Minister of Science Dariusz Wieczorek.
The Science Minister also thanked the academic community for its attitude in the face of the floods:
“I would like to thank the rectors, the universities, the academic community for their quick response and for their solidarity. I know that you are helping, that you are available and constantly monitoring what is happening. I also know that you remember all the employees and students who have been affected by this tragedy, and for that I thank you very much,” said Science Minister Dariusz Wieczorek.
Katowice – European City of Science 2024: A meeting place for science, culture and society
Katowice is the first city in Central and Eastern Europe to be awarded the title of European City of Science. The honor was awarded by the EuroScience European Association for the Advancement of Science and Technology. It brought not only prestige, but also a number of initiatives and activities aimed at promoting science and innovation to the general public.
As part of the European City of Science 2024, Katowice hosts scientific conferences, popular science meetings, cultural and sports events as well as social initiatives throughout the year. One of the most important events was the EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF) held in June. This is Europe’s largest interdisciplinary meeting to discuss the latest developments in science and innovation.