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.

Completed workshop - creating scented candles Scent the power!

On 22 February 2025, a workshop was held Scent of Power. The event was designed for women who wanted to combine creativity with confidence-building. Participants had the opportunity to develop their manual skills, discover the power of scents and boost their self-esteem in a friendly creative atmosphere.

Purpose of the workshop

The workshop combined handicraft techniques with exercises to support self-esteem. Through practical tasks and moments of reflection, the participants were able to learn more about their strengths and realise their own capabilities.

Main assumptions

• developing creativity through the creation of scented candles;
• improving manual skills;
• strengthening self-esteem and self-confidence;
• discovering individual talents;
• improvement of well-being and relaxation.

Course of the workshop

The workshop began with a welcome and discussion of the objective and agenda. The first part was devoted to the creation of scented candles - the participants learned about the technique of making them and selected the ingredients themselves.

The second part consisted of self-esteem-boosting exercises. Participants took part in tasks to help them see their strengths, build confidence and see themselves from the perspective of others. The workshop ended with a summary and presentation of the candles made.

End of workshop

At the end of the workshop, the proceedings were summarised, the candles made were presented and the participants had the opportunity to share your impressions. Workshop Scent of Power not only allowed participants to explore the secrets of scented candle making, but also provided an opportunity to boost confidence and find inspiration.

"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.

First meeting of the Centre for Disinformation and Cyber Security Research - a new initiative of the College of Vocational Training!

28 lutego 2025 r. odbyło się spotkanie organizacyjne zespołu pracującego nad utworzeniem Centrum Badań Dezinformacji i Cyberbezpieczeństwa (CBDiC) – nowej jednostki badawczo-dydaktycznej działającej przy Wyższej Szkole Kształcenia Zawodowego we Wrocławiu. Jej celem będzie prowadzenie badań nad dezinformacją oraz rozwój edukacji w obszarze zagrożeń informacyjnych i bezpieczeństwa w przestrzeni cyfrowej.

W spotkaniu udział wzięli m.in.:

• Dr Irena Malinowska – Dziekan Wydziału Nauk Społecznych;
• MA Anna Piguła – Prodziekan ds. Jakości Kształcenia WSKZ;
• Przemysław Żabnicki, MA – Pełnomocnik Rektora ds. kontaktów z otoczeniem społeczno-gospodarczym;
• Dr Mariusz Michalski – adiunkt WSKZ;
• Marta Matuszewska – Koordynator Biura Dziekana WNS.

W wydarzeniu uczestniczyli również badacze i praktycy specjalizujący się w zagadnieniach dezinformacji, zagrożeń informacyjnych i cyberbezpieczeństwa, którzy wspólnie ustalili główne kierunki działań.

Cele i zakres działalności Centrum

Centrum Badań Dezinformacji i Cyberbezpieczeństwa powstało w odpowiedzi na rosnące zagrożenia wynikające z manipulacji informacyjnych i cyfrowych. Jego działalność będzie skupiać się na:

• opracowaniu programów edukacyjnych, które uwzględnią najnowsze zagrożenia dezinformacyjne oraz skuteczne strategie ich zwalczania;
• realizacji zajęć dydaktycznych skoncentrowanych na mechanizmach manipulacji informacyjnej, metodach weryfikacji źródeł oraz roli bezpieczeństwa cyfrowego;
• organizacji konferencji naukowych i warsztatów poświęconych walce z dezinformacją oraz podnoszeniu kompetencji w zakresie cyberbezpieczeństwa;
• prowadzeniu badań naukowych nad nowoczesnymi zagrożeniami informacyjnymi i publikowaniu ich wyników w specjalistycznych wydawnictwach;
• podnoszeniu świadomości społecznej na temat wpływu dezinformacji i zagrożeń cyfrowych na funkcjonowanie współczesnych społeczeństw.

Nowe możliwości dla studentów i społeczności akademickiej

Działalność Centrum Badań Dezinformacji i Cyberbezpieczeństwa przyczyni się do rozwoju kompetencji studentów WSKZ w zakresie analizy informacji, komunikacji strategicznej oraz identyfikacji zagrożeń cyfrowych. Nasza Uczelnia stanie się miejscem, w którym nauka łączy się z praktyką, a uczestnicy projektów będą mieli okazję zdobywać wiedzę i doświadczenie w dynamicznie rozwijającym się obszarze bezpieczeństwa informacyjnego.

Inicjatywa ta nie tylko wzmocni akademickie zaplecze badawcze naszej Uczelni, ale także stworzy możliwości pogłębiania wiedzy w zakresie ochrony przed dezinformacją i cyberzagrożeniami, co jest kluczowe w dzisiejszym świecie.

Award 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!

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!

Protecting the image of public administration employees - a new publication by Dr Rafał Guzowski

Dr Rafal Guzowski, Programme Director of the Internal Security and Criminology course at the College of Vocational Training, has published an article entitled 'The importance of internal security and criminology'. Public servant's image in social media - principles of publication, limits to civil liberties and the right to protection of image in publishing SIM - Studies and Materials of the Marszalek Józef Piłsudski Central Military Library.

The purpose of the periodical SIM is to create an interdisciplinary research platform for those interested in contemporary problems of the military, its history, national defence, as well as library science and scientific information in the context of the military. The publication is an essential resource for experts in law, public administration and security science in the broadest sense.

Social media and the image of public administration employees

In this article, Dr Guzowski analyses the growing importance of social media in shaping the image of public administration employees. In the age of digitisation and the information society, public sector employees are increasingly becoming the subject of recordings and publications on the internet - often without their consent.

The author emphasises that while social media is a key channel of communication, it also carries the risk of misinformation and hectoring. We are increasingly seeing the phenomenon of officials recording interventions and publishing them online by citizen journalists. This practice raises questions about the limits of civil liberties and image protection.

When is it legal to publish an image?

Copyright law clearly sets out the rules for the publication of an image - as a general rule, its dissemination requires the consent of the person depicted. There are, however, exceptions, particularly in the case of well-known persons or those holding public office.

The article discusses cases in which the publication of an official's image may violate his or her rights, as well as situations in which it is lawful. The author also addresses the problem of abuse and the need to protect privacy in the context of official duties.

Labour Code and publication of image by the employer

In addition to the issues related to the publication of the image by third parties, the article also addresses the obligations of employers under the Labour Code.

Dr Guzowski emphasises that any publication of a photograph or recording of an employee by the employer requires the employee's explicit consent. In the context of public administration, where the image of civil servants often appears in the media, it is extremely important to follow procedures related to the processing of personal data.

Legal remedies in the event of an image violation

If a public employee considers that his or her image has been used unlawfully, he or she can avail himself or herself of several forms of legal protection, such as:

• a request to cease dissemination - the aggrieved person has the right to request the removal of photographs and recordings from websites;
• remedying the infringement - an undertaking by the publishing entity to make an official apology or correct the content;
• financial compensation - in some cases, the person whose image has been unlawfully used may claim monetary compensation.

RODO and the protection of the image of public administration employees

One of the key issues addressed in the publication is the impact of the RODO provisions on image protection.

In the context of European law the image can be treated as personal data and in some cases even as biometric dataif it enables a person to be unequivocally identified. This means that the unauthorised processing of an image - e.g. the publication of photographs of officials without their consent - can entail serious legal consequences.

Why should you be interested in reading this publication?

Dr Rafał Guzowski's publication is an important analysis of the contemporary challenges of protecting the image of public administration employees. In the age of the digital society, where anyone can become an object of recording and media debate, it is necessary to working out the balance between civil liberties and the protection of privacy and workers' rights.

Article in Studies and Materials of the Central Military Library sheds new light on the issue and provides valuable guidance for both public administration employees and their employers.

Dr Piotr Czyszkowski's new book - 'The Fourth Power? Between politics and economics".

In the 21st century, when information is an essential resource, questions arise about its quality and credibility. Where to look for reliable sources, can the media really be free and journalists independent? What role does television play in conveying information and shaping public opinion? Dr Piotr Czyszkowski, assistant professor at our University, tries to answer these and other questions in his latest monograph 'The Fourth Power? Between politics and economics'.

Who is Dr Piotr Czyszkowski?

Dr. Piotr Czyszkowski is an experienced journalist with 25 years of experience, assistant professor at the School of Vocational Training, specialising in media and communication. His knowledge and practical experience make him an expert in contemporary media analysis.

What is the book about?

His latest monograph 'The Fourth Power? Between Politics and Economics", published by ATUT Publishing House, is a in-depth analysis of the functioning of the media in the modern world. The author considers whether journalists can be truly independent, how economics and politics affect media coverage and the role of television in shaping public opinion.
This is a must-read for anyone interested in media, politics and the mechanisms by which information influences society. It certainly represents a valuable position not only for students, but also for anyone interested in the role of information in today's world.

Changing education for the better! Find out about the decisions of the Education Quality Commission

On 10 February 2025, the next meeting of the Education Quality Committee of the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław took place. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss key issues concerning the improvement of educational standards at our University. Important decisions were made regarding:

• appointment of a Coordinator of Scientific Disciplines;
• introduction of rules and regulations for the Psychometric Tool Laboratory;
• establishing the rules of procedure of the Research Ethics Committee;
• conduct periodic evaluation of academic staff;
• optimising the graduation process in the College of Vocational Training.

Each of these themes aims to improve the quality of education and academic processes at the University.

Diploma process - new rules and improvements

One of the key points of the meeting was the formalisation of the graduation process. The new arrangements are intended to ensure that future diplomats are able to complete this stage more efficiently and more effective support from the Coordinators.

Periodic evaluation of academic staff - ensuring the highest level of teaching

In order to ensure that students as the best quality of education, our University will implement a system of periodic evaluation of academic staff. Such action will not only allow monitoring the quality of teachingbut also to support lecturers in their professional development. The university will enable them to participate in scientific conferences - both national and international - which will further develop the academic staff.

The Commission's new findings are an important step towards raising education standards and creating an even better learning and development environment for students.

International publication "Current Issues in National Legislation" - a new perspective on contemporary legal challenges

We are pleased to announce the publication of an international publication entitled. "Current problems of national legislation", which is the result of scientific cooperation between our University and academic partners from Ukraine. The monograph contains articles by authors from various scientific centres, including representatives of our University.

Contribution of researchers from our University

• Long-term effects of domestic violence - One of the articles included in the publication is the work of lecturers at our University: Dr Bartosz Blaszczak, Dr Irena Malinowska and Marta Pietrzykowska, M.Sc. entitled. "Long-term effects of domestic violence. A case study and therapeutic interventions'. The text examines in depth psychological consequences of domestic violence and presents effective therapeutic strategies, making it a valuable resource for mental health professionals.
• The role of leadership in crisis management - Another important contribution to the publication is the article by Agnieszka Śliwińska, MA, Anna Piguła and Przemysław Żabnicki, MA. entitled. 'Effective Crisis Management. The team leader and his/her role in interventions' who are also collaborating with the School of Professional Training. The authors analyse the key competencies of a leader in crisis situations and highlight the importance of effective team management in the intervention process.
• Importance of international scientific cooperation - The publication is an example of successful international scientific cooperation that strengthens the position of our University in the academic arena. The internationalisation of research allows the exchange of experience and broadening research perspectives, which contributes to the development of modern and interdisciplinary solutions.

We encourage you to read!

You are warmly invited to read the monograph and use it in your research and teaching work!