Different faces of trauma - master class by Prof. Dr. Nina Ogińska-Bulik
Already on 29 March 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in the Auditorium of the Faculty of Law of the University of Wrocław, the first master class lecture entitled 'The first of its kind' will be held. Different faces of traumawhich will be conducted by Prof. Nina Ogińska-Bulik, PhD - a prominent specialist in the field of health and stress psychology. The event will open a series of masterclasses organised by the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław.
Trauma in the modern world - how to understand and overcome it?
War, pandemics, violence, toxic relationships, natural disasters - every day many people face experiences that can leave a mark on their psyche. Trauma has many facetsand its effects can manifest themselves years later, affecting mental and physical health. How to deal with its consequences? Is it possible to make a positive transition after a difficult experience? How to support people who have lost hope and a sense of meaning?
The answers to these questions will be provided by Prof. Nina Ogińska-Bulik, Ph. expert in the psychology of trauma and stress, author/co-author of more than 330 scientific publications including 25 monographs and books, among others. Positive effects of traumatic experiences, Two faces of trauma or Trauma in adolescents.
Highlights of the lecture
The lecture will last approximately two hours and will an excellent opportunity to gain new knowledge, inspiration and reflection on the mechanisms of coping with trauma. This event is primarily aimed at psychology students in the College of Professional Training.
Acknowledgements
Thank you Professor Ryszard Poprawawho initiated the event. His commitment and passion made it possible to organise this unique event, opening up new opportunities for students to gain knowledge.
You are cordially invited! Don't miss the opportunity to meet an outstanding expert and deepen your knowledge of trauma and its effects. See you there!
Read MoreFresh energy, real change - Student Council gets in the game!
It was no ordinary day at the University - the elections for the Student Council of the School of Vocational Training had just concluded. Students have clearly identified the people they want to entrust their vote to and responsibility for issues that matter both on a daily basis and in the future. From now on, the official representatives of the academic community begin their activities, enjoying the full confidence of their colleagues and taking on the mission of actively contributing to the life of the university from within.
Time for action - students take the initiative
Newly established Local Government takes on the challenges of building an engaged community, organising social and cultural events and creating a space where every student can feel part of the academic community.
Thanks to the energy, creativity and determination of the student representatives, the coming months promise to be a a time of intense action and positive change. Congratulations to all those elected and thanks to those who took part in the vote. This is the start of a new phase in WSKZ student life.
A wave of disinformation stronger than the elements? Dr. Rafał Guzowski's research on social media
With what force does disinformation strike in times of crisis? The answer to this question was sought during his lecture Dr Rafał Guzowski cooperating with the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław, presenting the the results of piecemeal surveys on information chaos and the wave of misinformationthat emerged in these difficult moments for local communities. The speech took place during a conference "Resilience of cities to crises and threats. Security. Public policies. Education"which took place 28 March 2025.
Disinformation wave - two countries, one problem
Both Polandas well as Spain experienced in 2024 devastating flash floodswhich put not only infrastructure but also public confidence to the test. In both cases, the element was accompanied by a second wave - the confusion and misinformation.
W Spainespecially in the Valencia region, the meteorological warnings came too late. Residents, surprised by the scale of the phenomenon, were inundated with an avalanche of false information: from the allegedly damaged dams to theories about the operation of weather weapons and the HAARP programme. Manipulated footage attributed to Valencia also appeared on social media platforms, although it originated from Zaragoza.
W Poland, during the September floods, disinformation activity increased by 300%. Users received false RCB alerts, watched crafted films and read narratives about the "blowing up embankments" or looters from Ukraine. Some of this content appeared to be part of an organised campaign using accounts linked to the Russia and Belarus - aimed at undermining confidence in public institutions.
Social media - information or threats?
As he emphasises Dr Rafał Guzowski, social media in crisis situations are becoming both a source of information and a threat. Their impact lies in the immediacy and strength of emotion - the the more fear, anger or panic, the greater the reach of the false message.
The cases analysed included:
- voice messages on WhatsApp about a non-existent dam failure in Spain;
- Conspiracy theories about 'weather weapons';
- assigning recordings from other local reality sites;
- manipulated accounts of the actions of services and citizens.
These phenomena are not just temporary chaos - their effects are long-term. Disinformation weakens the community's ability to respond and adversely affects confidence in state warning systems.
Information resilience - a new pillar of security
Dr Guzowski's research shows that in the age of AI tools, fake news and manipulation, information immunity becomes as important as infrastructure. This is why it should be an element of urban planning, public policies and education.
A research paper entitled 'The importance of the researcher' will soon be published. "The role of media education and information policy in building urban resilience: shaping an informed information society in the face of crises and threats", in which Dr Guzowski will discuss in more detail the mechanisms for protecting cities from disinformation in times of crisis.
Read MoreHow do we build community resilience and security? - join the conference
In the face of contemporary challenges, such as climate change, armed conflicts or migration crises, urban resilience cannot simply be limited to a return to a pre-crisis state. It must mean striving for a new, more resilient model of functioning, able to cope with further, often unpredictable crises. It is on this theme that the conference will focus 'Resilience of cities to crises and threats. Security. Public policies. Education"which will take place 28 March 2025.
Find out about the topics covered at the conference
Event will bring together theoreticians, experts and practitioners to discuss key strategies, exchange experiences and present research findings on building safe and resilient cities of the future. The conference programme will be divided into 11 panelsin which recognised experts will provide insight into important topics on the current situation regarding the resilience of cities to crises and risks.
Panel I will be devoted to the analysis of emergency situations related to floods and the role of local communities and services in managing such threats. The experiences of the municipality of Lądek-Zdrój and Wrocław Kozanów in 2024 will be discussed, as well as the cooperation of various entities (army, police, Border Guard, health protection) in the framework of Operation Phoenix. Special attention will be given to the role of the Armed Forces in ensuring the safety of cities and the integration of crisis management systems in Poland.
Panel II will touch upon themes of urban risk, covering both infrastructure and social security. The vulnerability of public transport to crises, new dimensions of risk in urban space, and the impact of law and institutions, including the Catholic Church, on local security will be discussed. Experts will also address issues such as phonoholism, synthetic drugs and random risks affecting urban resilience.
Panel III are lectures on, among other things, the role of the National and Volunteer Fire Service in crisis management and building community resilience to threats. Innovative system solutions, cooperation between uniformed services during the 2024 floods and fire service operations at the local level will be discussed. Particular attention will be paid to the cordon sanitaire, rescue structure and local government fire resilience.
Panel IV will address the role of the Police in ensuring urban security and its functioning in crisis conditions. Trends in legal changes, the tasks of the Police in emergency situations and the effectiveness of prevention programmes will be discussed. Experts will also address the psychological aspects of resilience and focus on support, adaptation and intervention in crisis situations.
Panel V will focus on the role of technology and artificial intelligence in building cities' resilience to crises. Applications of modern technologies such as AI and strategic communications in urban security management will be discussed. Part of the panel will be dedicated to cyber threats in smart city infrastructure and methods for measuring and implementing urban resilience strategies globally.
Panel VI will treat the security of cities in the context of terrorist threats, crime and migration. It will discuss the evolution of security in Europe, the protection of smart cities from attacks and how the state can support them in the face of increasing threats. The panel will also have space to explore the role of cities in defence strategies, the impact of mass migration on the functioning of cities and the adaptation of refugees after the 2022 refugee crisis.
Panel VII will focus on protective infrastructure and the resilience of cities to hazards, including floods and emergencies. The role of protective construction, modernisation and civil defence in ensuring the safety of residents will be discussed. This part of the conference will examine the topic of shelters in Poland, the importance of hospitals as critical infrastructure and will compare the 1997 and 2024 floods in terms of statistical data.
Panel VIII will focus on the role of education in building the resilience of cities and communities to contemporary threats. The importance of media education, information policy and public awareness in emergency management will be discussed. Particular attention will be given to pro-defence education, the challenges of education policy in small towns and the impact of the military classroom education system on urban resilience in emergencies.
Panel IX is a space where experts will speak on the role of public administration in crisis management and strengthening the resilience of cities. Issues of logistics, security strategies and effective management of municipalities in emergency situations will be discussed. Invited guests will discuss issues of cooperation between the administration and non-governmental organisations, the legal aspects of crisis management and the experience of Warsaw as an example of an effective model of action.
Panel X will be devoted to urban policy and development strategies in the context of global crises and climate change. Regional challenges, such as the impact of the war in Ukraine, and the adaptation strategies of cities, including Poznan, will be discussed. Special attention will be given to sustainable development, green infrastructure and the role of small watersheds in urban planning and disaster reduction.
Panel XI (in English) will treat urban resilience to disinformation, education and sustainability. The challenges of disinformation as a threat to public safety and how to build information resilience will be discussed. Experts in this part of the conference will address the role of entrepreneurial education, introduce the activities of Taiwan's Kuma Academy, and delve into the topic of strategies to make cities safer in the face of terrorist threats and natural disasters.
Why take part?
Conference is a unique opportunity to gain knowledge of the latest strategies and technologies supporting urban development and crisis management. Participants will have the chance to learn about practical solutions applied in Poland and abroad, as well as to establish valuable professional contacts.
Don't delay - you can sign up for the conference by 25 January this year. How to register? It's simple - fill in the form and submit at the e-mail address: konferencja.odpornosc.miast@gmail.com. Each registered participant will receive a named certificate. The conference is free of charge, so join the participants and become part of the discussion about the future of our cities. Let's build resilience, security and sustainability together!
Read MoreNew perspectives for WSKZ students and staff
We are pleased to announce that 20 March 2025. a meeting was held between the Vice-Dean of the College of Vocational Education for Student Affairs, Dr Aneta Kazanecka, and the Director of the Office for Cooperation with Higher Education Institutions, Tomasz Janos, and the Deputy Director of the Office, Monika Sochacka. Discussions focused on the broad possibilities and potential forms of cooperationwhich can significantly support the development of our students and academic staff. Importantly, representatives of the Office enthusiastically accepted the invitation to the inauguration of the academic year at the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław.
New opportunities for our community
The discussions resulted in the following programmes and initiatives that offer real support for students and the University.
Student Activity Fund (FAST)
This fund allows obtaining funding from the municipal budget for study circles, student organisations and groups from universities located in Wrocław. The project is open to initiatives supporting the development of academic entrepreneurship, innovation, creativity and academic excellence.
- maximum amount of funding - PLN 15 000;
- deadline for applications - 28 March 2025.
It's excellent opportunity to implement ideaswhich can significantly enrich the activities of study circles. For more information, please visit:
https://www.wroclaw.pl/akademicki-wroclaw/fundusz-aktywnosci-studenckiej-fast
Competition "Wrocław Magnolia"
The competition is aimed at graduates of Wrocław's universities (both public and non-public). Its aim is to honour the best master's theses that deal with improving the quality of life of Wrocław's inhabitants, such as public health, environmental protection or green space management.
- amount of the award - up to PLN 10 000;
- Only works already defended may be submitted.
Additional information about the competition can be found here:
https://www.wroclaw.pl/akademicki-wroclaw/o-konkursie-wroclawska-magnolia
Student Scholarship Fund
The programme is aimed at students in their third year and above of unified master's studies, second year of first-cycle studies and second-cycle studies (full-time studies). The main objective is to provide financial support to students who have been given the opportunity to study at foreign universities.
- is a great support for, among others, participants in the Erasmus programme;
- the university is currently waiting for the granting of ECHE cards by the European Commission, which will create additional opportunities for participation in international exchanges.
Promotion of academic events
The Office of University Relations provides the opportunity to promote the academic events organised by the WSKZ by publishing information on its website. This will allow increase the visibility of the conference and reach a wider audience.
Working together for development
Study circles, student groups and tutors are encouraged to actively engage with the programmes available to support academic initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity to develop projects and create innovative activities together. Details of the Student Activity Fund (FAST) will be communicated to the tutors of the study circles soon.
Thanks to the commitment of the Vocational Training College and the fruitful coordination with the Office for Cooperation with Higher Education Institutions, it is possible to promote academic innovation and provide real support for student activities in the local community. Programmes such as FAST or "Wrocław Magnolia" reinforce the importance of science in practice and create a space to connect knowledge with real social challenges. We encourage you to visit the website:
https://www.wroclaw.pl/akademicki-wroclaw/wroclawskie-centrum-akademickie
Lecture by Dr. Krzysztof Śmiszek for students of WSKZ
On Sunday, 16 March 2025, from 12:00 to 13:00, an open lecture was held for students of the Higher School of Vocational Education in Wrocław. The guest of the event was Dr Krzysztof Śmiszek - lawyer, advocate, doctor of legal sciences and experienced academic lecturer. The topic of the meeting was: The European Union - developments, challenges, prospects, threats.
Expert in European law
Dr Śmiszek specialises in issues relating to the European Union and the protection of human rights. In 2016, he obtained a doctorate in jurisprudence with a specialisation in European law, defending a dissertation entitled 'European Law'. The European standard of equality and Polish law. The substantive and institutional aspect. He has also been qualified as a barrister since 2021.
Key issues covered in the lecture
The lecture discussed the key challenges facing the European Union. The speaker addressed, among other issues:
- EU priorities in economic and social policy;
- necessary institutional reforms;
- ways of responding to the migration crisis;
- the importance of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights in the context of the protection of human rights.
Importance of open lectures
The event was conducted in accordance with the academic principle of freedom of research. Meetings of this kind support students' cognitive development, shape critical thinking and provide an opportunity to explore current political and legal issues in contemporary Europe.
Read More"The erosion of liberal democracy in Poland after 2015". - new article by Prof. Dr. Andrzej Antoszewski
We are pleased to announce that Prof. Andrzej Antoszewski, a renowned political scientist working with the School of Vocational Training, has published an article entitled 'Erosion of liberal democracy in Poland after 2015' in the prestigious journal Wrocław Political Studies (33(1), 2024). His text analyses in detail the changes taking place in the Polish political system, indicating a gradual retreat from the liberal democracy model.
Who is Professor Andrzej Antoszewski?
Prof. Andrzej Antoszewski, Ph.D., is a renowned political scientist and an expert in the theory of democracy and political systems. His research focuses on the functioning of political parties, electoral behaviour and contemporary parliamentarism. He is the author and co-author of numerous scientific publications, for which he has received prestigious awards, including the Award of the Polish Academy of Sciences and distinctions from the Minister of Education.
The erosion of democratic institutions and the influence of the Church on state policy
The author draws attention to the growing tendency to limit the independence of democratic institutions, including the Constitutional Court. He describes how conservative political parties, led by the Law and Justice party, are undermining the legitimacy of the liberal order, arguing that it is the result of a compromise with post-communist elites.
The growing influence of the Catholic Church on state politics and the mechanisms of the erosion of democracy, including the system of informal patronage, are also important aspects of the analysis.
Why read the article?
The text by Prof. Andrzej Antoszewski, a lecturer cooperating with the Higher School of Vocational Training, is an important voice in the debate on the future of Polish democracy. The publication provides a thorough analysis of de-democratisation processes, their causes and consequences for society and the political system. We encourage you to read it: https://wuwr.pl/wrsp/article/view/17198.
Read MoreV All-Poland Montessori Conference - Wroclaw 2025
We are happy to announce that our University has joined the group of co-organisers of the 5th National Montessori Conference, prepared by the Lower Silesia Montessori Education Centre Foundation. The event will take place on 14-15 March 2025 at the New Horizons Cinema, at ul. Kazimierza Wielkiego 19a/21 in Wrocław.
Conference programme
This year's edition is a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge of Montessori education and philosophy and exchange experiences with experts from all over Poland. The conference includes an extensive programme of talks and workshops, covering topics such as:
- Peer relations and conflict mediation,
- understanding the neurodiverse child,
- Professional burnout and regeneration in educational work,
- The future of Montessori in Poland,
- communication with seniors with dementia,
- The use of artificial intelligence in Montessori work and education.
The programme will also include special events, including the premiere of the film 'Maria Montessori' - the only such screening in Poland. Meanwhile, a special workshop entitled 'How to be a guide - situational leadership that supports and develops teams' has been prepared for Montessori school and kindergarten principals attending the Child of the Future 2025 Conference. This is a great opportunity to meet, reflect on your own development and exchange experiences on how to build the strength and effectiveness of your teams.
Organisational information
The conference will begin 14 March at 13:00 and will run until 15 March at 15:30. We already encourage you to book a date in the calendar and follow the event. You will find the necessary information here! All those interested in Montessori education are welcome to participate - both teachers, principals and parents and those seeking inspiration in personal and professional development. See you at the New Horizons Cinema!
Read MoreAward from Amnesty International for WSKZ lecturer
Dr Kamil Stępniak, WSKZ lecturer and constitutional lawyer, has received a prestigious award in a competition organised by Amnesty International!
Feather of Hope is an award granted by Amnesty International since 2002. Its aim is to recognise individuals working in the media in Poland and having a real impact on positive change for human rights.
Who is eligible for this award? First and foremost, bloggers, writers, journalists, film-makers, cartoonists and anyone who promotes human rights on a large scale through social media.
A unique award this year was Audience Award, awarded on the occasion of Amnesty International's 35th anniversary in Poland. In this category Dr Kamil Stępniak received the most votes from internet users lecturer from the JCS.
He is a specialist in constitutional law, human rights and new technologies running a thriving Instagram account. His profile - @constitutionalist - is watched by more than 78,000 people.
On his social media, Dr Kamil Stępniak focuses on the dissemination of knowledge in the field of constitutional law and human rights. Analyses current political events and explains issues relating to the constitution and civic education.
- I try to show and raise awareness of the importance of the role of the Constitution in the life of every citizen - says Dr Kamil Stępniak.
The following justification appeared in his application for the award:
"Dr Kamil Stępniak proves with his work that legal knowledge can and should be accessible to everyone. His work is an important voice in defence of human rights, the rule of law and democracy."
- I always strive to put human rights and the Constitution first, regardless of who is in power, and I am glad that this has been recognised. This award is a motivation for me to continue my work and a great commitment - Dr Kamil Stępniak adds.
Congratulations!
Read MoreMentorLab - your path to professional development!
The WSKZ Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship invites all students to participate in the unique Mentoring Programme MentorLab. This is an innovative project that connects students with experienced mentors, offering support in developing skills, achieving goals and preparing for professional challenges. If you are ready for a new educational adventure and personal development, you cannot miss this opportunity!
Are you interested? Find out more!
For students interested in joining the programme, there are also plans to informational webinarwhich will take place on 5 March 2025 at 6 p.m. During this online meeting, you will learn all about the mentoring, the objectives and the benefits of participation. As a participant, you will learn about the technical details of the programme and the timetable for the next steps. Fill out application form now and join the MentorLab programme.
MentorLab - what is the programme about?
MentorLab is a unique programme that has been developed by the WSKZ Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The main aims of the programme include:
- Recruitment of mentors from among the academic staff of the WSKZ;
- recruiting mentees - students open to personal and professional development;
- group mentoring sessions held in small teams (3-5 people);
- 5 mentoring meetings aligned with the academic calendar;
- completion of the programme by September 2025 at the latest.
MentorLab will give you the opportunity to working in an intimate environment, so that each session is tailored to the needs of the participant. Mentors help to set goals, develop competences and deal with professional challenges.
Why join?
Participation in the MentorLab is for you the chance to acquire practical knowledge, develop skills and make valuable contacts. Key benefits include:
- individual mentor support in achieving personal and professional goals,
- learn practical tips and experiences from experts,
- building self-confidence and preparing for challenges in the labour market,
- the opportunity to work with inspiring people.
How to sign up?
Recruitment to the programme takes place by email - SUBMIT APPLICATIONwhich includes personal data, motivation for participation, areas of interest and consent to the processing of personal data. You will find detailed information on the website of the WSKZ Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The deadline for applications is already mid-February 2025. Places are limited, so fill in application form - you need to act fast!
The future begins today
The MentorLab Mentoring Programme is an initiative that can transform your career. With the support of experienced mentors and working with a team of peers, you can gain an edge in the job market and develop your passions in directions that match your aspirations. Join the meetings and start your mentoring adventure!
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