Toruń celebrated the holiday of science - the Gala of Polish Science
20.02.2025
On Polish Science Day, Toruń became the scientific capital of Poland. A gala ceremony was held at the Jordanki Cultural and Convention Center which brought together a distinguished group of representatives from the academic world. The event was not only an opportunity to honor outstanding scientists but also a moment to reflect on the role of science in shaping the future of Poland. - It is science that is the key to the country's economic, social and cultural development. Thanks to it, we can respond to the challenges of today, build an innovative economy and improve the quality of life for millions of Poles” - Minister Marcin Kulasek said. The Ministry of Science and Higher Education organized the gala in conjunction with Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń.
Copernicus' legacy - an inspiration for generations to come
It is no coincidence that Polish Science Day is celebrated on February 19 - it is the anniversary of the birth of Nicolaus Copernicus, one of Poland's most eminent scientists. His groundbreaking heliocentric theory was a bold step toward the truth and today serves as an inspiration for generations of scientists to come.
- Breakthrough discoveries inspire successive generations of researchers to have the courage to ask questions and seek the truth, regardless of the circumstances, Minister Marcin Kulasek said during his speech.
This year's gala also had a special dimension due to the 80th anniversary of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń - one of the most important academic centers in Poland. - Pride, tradition, modernity - these are the values that have defined the Nicolaus Copernicus University for 80 years and built its unwavering position in Polish and European science” - the Minister noted.
Awards for outstanding researchers and new challenges for science
The culminating moment of the gala was the presentation of the Minister of Science and Higher Education Awards, which were given in five categories:
20 lifetime achievement awards,
33 awards for significant achievements in scientific activities,
4 awards for significant achievements in teaching activities,
6 awards for significant achievements in implementation activities,
2 awards for significant organizational achievements.
This year, 150 people were honored whose work is crucial to the development of Polish scientific thought and teaching.
- Your achievements prove that Polish science is world-class, and our universities are constantly developing. The commitment of each of you has a real impact not only on the development of technology, medicine, the economy or education, but also on the daily lives of millions of Poles” - stressed Minister Marcin Kulasek, thanking the awardees for their contribution to the development of science.
The head of the Ministry also spoke about the ministry's priorities in improving working conditions for scientists. Among them, he mentioned increasing research funding, fighting pseudoscience, simplifying grant procedures and strengthening international cooperation.
- We want Polish scientists to have an even greater impact on shaping European science policy” - he stressed.
Science as a space of freedom and search for truth
The Polish Science Gala was not only a celebration of knowledge but also an opportunity to reflect on the future of Polish science. The ceremony in Toruń showed that the area is growing rapidly, and its representatives are ready for more challenges.
During the meeting, it was repeatedly emphasized that the future of science depends not only on institutional support, but also on openness to new ideas and a courageous search for truth.
- Let science remain a space for freedom, development and the search for truth” - the Minister said.