2nd WSKZ Conference 'Trauma of floods, domestic violence and war - new challenges of psychological support' - an interdisciplinary approach to contemporary problems

The 2nd WSKZ Conference entitled "Trauma of floods, domestic violence and war - new challenges of psychological support" brought together a group of eminent professionals from a variety of fields, including psychology, psychotherapy, social and medical sciences. The event aimed to explore the contemporary challenges of psychological support for people affected by trauma resulting from flooding, war and domestic violence. The conference provided a unique opportunity to exchange of knowledge and experience in the face of such pressing social problemsthat the modern world is facing.

Diversity of participants and conference themes

The conference was attended by around 100 participants, including representatives from academia, students and social service providers such as MOPS and crisis intervention units. Such a broad representation from different fields showed the importance of exchange of knowledge and experience between specialistswho work with people experiencing trauma on a daily basis.

22 hours of lectures and workshops - three main thematic blocks

The 22 hours of lectures and workshops, delivered by 18 experts, provided participants with practical tools for working with people affected by trauma. Presentations were given by academics and practitioners, which allowed the transfer of theoretical knowledge embedded in the realities of everyday work.

The event was divided into three main thematic areas: flood trauma, war trauma and domestic violence trauma. Each of these topics provided a space for in-depth reflection on the psychological and social aspects of trauma, as well as knowledge of the latest research in the field.

Pre-conference meeting of multiple perspectives

A great deal of interest was shown in pre-conference workshopswhich addressed the topics of body work in stress reduction, psychological first aid and contact with a person after sexual violence. Participants had the opportunity to acquire practical skillswhich they can use in their daily work.

The speakers represented various professional backgrounds, from clinical psychology to education to the uniformed services. This made the conference an excellent opportunity to exchanges of experience and the combination of theory and practice.

Gala dinner - establishing links and cooperation

After the first day of the conference a gala dinner was heldwhich became an informal but valuable moment for networking and further exchange of reflections and experiences between the event's participants.

Building bridges between science and practice

The conference "The trauma of floods, domestic violence and war - new challenges of psychological support" was not only an opportunity to learnbut also to build bridges between different disciplines. We would like to thank all participants and speakers for their active participation, as well as their commitment to development of scientific cooperation and practical.

Groundbreaking collaboration between the College of Vocational Training and the State Vocational College at the 7th Scientific Conference

On 5-6 June 2025  at the Prof. Edward F. Szczepaniak State Vocational College in Suwałki. Szczepaniak in Suwałki will host the 7th Scientific Conference. The event will address the key topic: "Competences, tasks and capacities of governmental and self-governmental bodies in the field of civil defence and counter-hybrid and anti-cognitive actions used by Russia on a large scale in Ukraine, as well as against the countries of Central and Eastern Europe". This unique endeavour is not only an opportunity to explore international security issues, but also to exchange experiences between academics and professionals in the field.

Scientific cooperation growing in importance

University of Vocational Training in Wrocław as co-organiser of the event, reaffirms its key contribution to shaping the academic space dedicated to security. The Managing Director of the College of Vocational Training, Dr Bartosz Blaszczak, has assumed Honorary Patronage of the Conference, which is a great asset for the eventstrengthening the university's position in the international arena. Cooperation with the State Vocational College in Suwałki means an important step towards the development of scientific cooperation between universities.

Representatives of the College of Vocational Training

Representatives of our University will actively participate in the conference:

• Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences - Prof. Irena Malinowska, University of Applied Sciences;
• Director of the Institute of Law and Criminology - Dr Janusz Bryk;
• Director of the Institute of Administration and Political Science - Dr Jan Znajdek.

International meeting on human trafficking with an expert from the School of Vocational Training

29 May 2025 in Warsaw, in the conference rooms of the National Stadium, hosted a seminar of the European Crime Prevention Network EUCPN (European Crime Prevention Network). The theme of the event was prevention of trafficking in human beings with particular focus on public educationincluding in the context of the situation of migrants affected by the war in Ukraine. The seminar was organised in the framework of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union and lasted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..

Speeches, debates and participation of an expert from the School of Vocational Training

The programme included speeches by representatives of government institutions and civil society organisations and the scientific community. Participants in the event included both Polish and foreign experts representing EU Member States. The seminar was held in English, which underlined its international character.

Our University represented by Dr Witold Yakimko, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Law of the University of Vocational Training in Wrocław. He took part in an expert panel on anti-trafficking research and education campaigns by universities and the private sector.

Visionary, counsellor, psychologist - Professor Stanisław A. Witkowski and his influence on Polish business

In the monograph "Wrocław Psychology. People and ideas" (2024), edited by Jolanta Kowal and Kiriakos Chatzipentidis, included a chapter by Dr Magdalena Slazyk-Sobol dedicated to the eminent Wrocław psychologist. Article "Stanisław A. Witkowski - practical activities in the field of work psychology and management" focuses on his impressive practical achievements, which had a real impact on the development of applied psychology in Poland.

Leader in applied psychology

Professor Stanisław A. Witkowski was one of the pioneers of thewho set new standards in the diagnosis and development of managerial competence. As early as 1986, he co-organised the first management competition in Poland, paving the way for the implementation of the Assessment/Development Centre procedures. He was the first on the national scene to introduce these advanced methods, creating comprehensive assessment tools that permanently have become part of human resources management practice. The chapter shows him as a practitioner who:

• implemented complex systems for assessing staff potential and competence;
• developed and adapted diagnostic tools and competence profiles;
• carried out validation of foreign psychometric tests for the Polish market;
• promoted the use of psychometric methods (tests, questionnaires) in evaluation processes;
• emphasised the robust vetting of candidates and the integration of HR management systems;
• carried out extensive consultancy and training activities in cooperation with Polish companies.

From science to practice - a template for future organisational psychologists

The professor consistently combined a scientific approach with practice, adapting methodologies to the real needs of the organisation. He saw management psychology as a tool for improving the effectiveness of teams, and his work was always in close contact with the business. The chapter emphasises that Professor Witkowski's approach is a model of for future work and organisational psychologists. The lesson, how to combine a solid theoretical background with practicewhile respecting ethics and quality of work.

Intercultural leadership according to Professor Jerzy Mączyński

We are pleased to announce the publication of the monograph "Wrocław Psychology. People and ideas" published in 2024 by the Rys Publishing House. The scientific editors of Dr Jolanta Kowal, Prof. UWr, and Kiriakos Chatzipentidis have undertaken the important task of commemorating the outstanding figures and currents of thought that shaped psychology in Wrocław. One of the most valuable elements of this publication is Chapter by Dr. Monika Ziobrowska, collaborating with the School of Vocational Training entitled "Jerzy Mączyński - legacy of cross-cultural leadership research".

The text is dedicated to Professor Jerzy Mączyński - a prominent Polish psychologist specialising in organisational and management psychology. The author presents him as a co-founder of the Wrocław psychology centre management and one of the most important researchers in the field of work psychology. His scientific achievements have had a significant impact not only on the development of theory, but also on the practice of management - both in Poland and abroad.

The international GLOBE project and the role of Professor Mączyński

One of Professor Mączyński's greatest achievements was his participation in the international GLOBE project, which involved the research conducted in 62 countries and focused on analysing leadership styles in different cultural contexts. Findings from this exercise allowed A better understanding of the impact of cultural values on the effectiveness of leaders.

Through this research, universal and culturally diverse models of effective leadership have been developed. The data collected was not only academically applicable - They have also been used in the development of modern training tools for managers and leaders operating in diverse environments.

Contribution to the development of organisational psychology

Scientific publication emphasises that achievements of Professor Mączyński for research on intercultural leadership, decision-making participation and management in multicultural environments set the direction for subsequent generations of researchers.

His work is particularly relevant in the context of contemporary challenges such as globalisation and management in international teams. The importance of his contributions is recognised by academics and management practitioners around the world.

Department of Management Psychology and the legacy of collaboration

The chapter also notes that Professor Mączyński together with Professor Stanisław A. Witkowski initiated the establishment of the Department of Management Psychology at the Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław.

This was a landmark action - not only for the institutional structure of the university, but also for the development of specialised research in management psychology in Poland.

Inspiration for the future

Chapter by Dr. Monika Ziobrowska is not only a synthetic presentation of the achievements of prof. Jerzy Mączyński, but also an invitation to reflect on how research can have a real impact on everyday managerial practice. In a world where cultural diversity is becoming an everyday reality, Professor Mączyński's thought remains relevant and extremely necessary.

Participation of the Higher School of Vocational Training in the International Scientific Conference in Kharkiv

27 May 2025 an international scientific conference entitled "State Building and Local Government Research Institute of the NAPrN of Ukraine" took place in Kharkiv. "Legal regulation of public management and local government: comparative experiences and contemporary challenges".

The event was organised thanks to international cooperationwhich is based on a partnership agreement between our university and the Ukrainian side, and thanks to the commitment and support of the His Magnificence the Rector, the Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation and the Dean. The conference organisers would like to thank the University authorities for their kindness, trust and active support of international initiatives.

Papers by representatives of our University

At the conference attended by representatives of the College of Vocational Trainingwho presented interesting scientific papers.

 "Metropolitan governance in local government systems in the context of contemporary challenges".

Prof. Dr. Zdzisław Sirojć in his paper he discussed the specificities of managing large urban agglomerations, which are becoming key centres of socio-economic life. Professor Sirojć analysed models of metropolitan governance in selected European countries, and pointed to the need for a flexible legal framework to enable effective coordination between different local government units. Particular attention was paid to challenges such as suburbanisation, sustainable transport, housing policy and crisis management.

"Digitisation as a factor in the transformation of local governance: e-services, transparency and citizen trust".

Prof. Dr. Janusz Soboń and Dr. Ruslana Seleznova presented the role of digital transformation in public management at the local level. In the paper examples of implementation of local government e-services were presented, the impact of digital tools on the quality of public services and mechanisms to increase the transparency of government operations. It also points to the growing the importance of citizens' trust in public institutions as a result of effective digitalisation, transparency and public participation.

 "Local government in multidimensional crises: legal challenges and adaptation strategies".

Prof. Dr. Jacek Stasiak focused on analysing the functioning of local governments in the midst of complex crises - economic, health, environmental and political. He presented proposals for legal and institutional solutionswhich can support the resilience of local structures in the face of unpredictable challenges. The paper also included examples of good practice from Poland and other EU countries on crisis management and adaptation of public services.

 "Comparative analysis of local government systems in Central and Eastern European countries: between normative frameworks and implementation practice".

Prof. Dr. Adam Muszyński in his speech gave a comprehensive overview of the models of self-governance in the countries of the region, pointing out both common features and differences due to historical and institutional conditions. The gap between formal legal regulations was highlighted and the actual practice of local governance, which is important for the effectiveness of decentralisation reforms. The paper also included recommendations on increasing management efficiency and civic participation.

Importance and effects of participation in the conference

The presentations by our researchers were of great interest to conference participants - both from academia and public administration practitioners. Each of the speeches concluded with a lively discussion and exchange of experiences, confirming the importance of the topics covered in the context of contemporary challenges for the public sector.

As a result of the conference a peer-reviewed scientific monograph is plannedcontaining expanded versions of the presented papers. This publication will become an important tool for further international scholarly dialogue and exchange of good practices in public management and local government reforms.

Once again, we would like to thank the University authorities for the enabling participation in this important event and we look forward to continuing our fruitful cooperation.

Cyber-abuse and the world of screens - workshop with Dr Mariusz Z. Jędrzejko is over

On May 25, 2025, second-semester psychology students had the opportunity to take part in a unique workshop conducted by Dr Mariusz Z. Jędrzejko. The event, organised by the Institute of Psychology of the Higher School of Vocational Education, took place in a stationary format at LO V at 14 Jacka Kuronia Street in Wrocław. The participants - in an intimate group of 25 people - were explore the problem of addiction to new technologies screen and digital social networks.

What was the workshop about?

The aim of the event was to raise awareness of the dangers of excessive use of digital media and the presentation of diagnostic models to assist in the diagnosis of so-called 'cyber-behaviour'. Issues such as:

• The social nature of man and the impact of information and image avalanches;
• The neurobiological consequences of using screen technologies;
• mechanisms leading to disruption in the digital world;
• tests and diagnostic pathways;
• assumptions for the treatment and prevention of cyber-bullying.

What knowledge did the participants gain?

The students not only enhanced their theoretical knowledgebut also gained practical skills. Thanks to the workshop format, participants:

• understood the correlations between the misuse of technology and the development of cyber disorders;
• have acquired methodological competence in problem recognition;
• have learned to propose adequate preventive actions.

The meeting was chaired by a recognised expert in prevention and education, by Dr Mariusz Z. Jędrzejko, was met with great interest and commitment from students.

Professor William Stern through the eyes of Dr Iwona Koczanowicz-Dehnel - chapter from the monograph "Wrocław Psychology. People and Ideas".

We are pleased to announce the publication of the monograph "Wrocław Psychology. People and ideas", published in 2024 by Rys Publishing House. The scientific editors were Jolanta Kowal, PhD, Prof. UWr, and Kiriakos Chatzipentidis, showing the rich history of psychology in Wrocław and paying tribute to the outstanding scholars who created it.

One of the more interesting chapters in this publication is the text by Dr Iwona Koczanowicz-Dehnel, who works with the School of Vocational Training, entitled "William Stern - from differential psychology to critical personalism". The author introduces Professor William Stern - a prominent German psychologist and philosopher - as a one of the key founders of modern psychology. His 19 years of research work at the University of Wrocław had an enormous impact on the development of psychological science in Europe, and his legacy remains relevant today.

Academic career and foundations of differential psychology

Professor William Stern (1871-1938) was one of the first scientists to be appointed Professor of Philosophy, Psychology and Pedagogy at the University of Wrocław in 1907. Reformed the approach to academic psychology, moving away from reductionist approaches to a more holistic and humanistic view of the human being.

The focus of his research was differential psychology - a current focusing on the analysis of individual human characteristics and abilities. Professor Stern advocated the development of applied psychology, which he divided into two distinct branches:

• Psychognostics - concerned with exploring the psychic diversity of individuals.
• Psychotechnics - using this knowledge for practical action, such as in education or career guidance.

Through his research on intelligence, Professor Stern developed the the intelligence quotient (IQ) formula, which is still used in diagnostic psychology today. He was also a forerunner of the psychographic method, or individual case analysis, which brought psychology closer to clinical and pedagogical practice.

Critical personalism - philosophy of the person

In parallel with his research work, Professor Stern was developing an innovative philosophical programme - the critical personalism. In his view, a person is a person - a coherent, complex whole that cannot be reduced to individual mental functions. He opposed fragmentary approaches and reductionist errors (e.g. mereological error), seeking a theory that integrates human knowledge.

Critical personalism provided the theoretical framework for his conception of personality and represented an attempt to bring together the various strands of human science - from biology to psychology to philosophy. Professor Stern was convinced that only such a holistic approach could understand the complexity of human nature.

A legacy that endures

The chapter by Dr Iwona Koczanowicz-Dehnel is an insightful and erudite analysis of the work of Professor William Stern - scientist whose ideas had an enormous impact on the international development of psychology. His work in Wrocław contributed not only to establishing the city's position as an important scientific centre, but also to shaping contemporary standards of research into personality, intelligence and upbringing.

We encourage you to reach out to this chapterto better understand how Professor Stern's scientific ideas continue to influence thinking about the human being - whether in psychology, pedagogy or philosophy.

Management visionary - Professor Witkowski and his contribution to organisational psychology

We are pleased to announce the publication of the monograph "Wrocław Psychology. People and Ideas"published in 2024 by Rys Publishing House. The scientific edition of the study was prepared by Dr Jolanta Kowal, Prof. UWr and Kiriakos Chatzipentidis, paying tribute to prominent figures and currents of psychological thought in Wrocław.

One of the protagonists of the publication is Professor Stanisław A. Witkowskiwhose profile in chapter "Stanisław A. Witkowski - representative of management psychology in Poland". presented Dorota Kanafa-Chmielewska. The text presents the Professor as one of the most important scientists in the field of work and organisational psychology - co-founder of the Wrocław centre for management psychology and promoter of the combination of scientific research and practice.

Achievements and activities of Professor Witkowski

Professor Witkowski From 1970, he was affiliated with the University of Wrocław. Together with Professor Jerzy Mączyński, he initiated the establishment of the Department of Management Psychology and headed it until 2012. He played an important role in the structures of the Institute of Psychology, holding numerous positions there. His achievements are not only academic workbut also pioneering efforts to disseminate psychological knowledge in management.

Among the professor's key achievements were:

• Establishing cooperation with industryincluding with Kombinat Górniczo-Hutniczy Miedzi (KGHM). He became personally involved by visiting mines to learn about the realities of miners' work and develop practical recommendations to improve working conditions. This experience cemented his commitment to field research and the application of psychological knowledge in real organisational environments.
• Development of international cooperation - The professor's research has contributed to our understanding of the impact of cultural differences on management styles and the process of adaptation and coping with culture shock.
• Establishment of the first postgraduate programme in management psychology in Poland - The programme attracted great interest and played an important role in professionalising Polish leaders.
• Teaching and development of young staff - Professor supported doctoral students, promoted the transfer of practical knowledge and emphasised the role of the academic teacher in shaping future experts.
• Founding of the Polish Association of Organisational Psychology (PSPO) in 2011, together with Professor Barbara Kozusznik. The organisation brings together the organisation's psychologists and promotes the exchange of knowledge and the transfer of scientific achievements into practice. The professor managed the PSPO for 15 years, being actively involved in its development. To this day, the association still organises key professional events, including the 2023 national congress, which is an important forum for the exchange of experience between science and practice.
• Development of diagnostic tools in management - Professor Witkowski developed and implemented methods for diagnosing competences, forecasting managerial effectiveness, and adapted and validated foreign psychometric tools, such as the Belbin test or the Organisational Climate Questionnaire. He was the forerunner of the implementation of Assessment/Development Centre procedures in Poland (the so-called managerial competitions), emphasising the necessity of a reliable selection of leaders.

Scientific knowledge that serves practice

Throughout his career, Professor Witkowski has consistently integrated psychological theory with management practice. He believed that the real power of psychology lay in its application - in organisational diagnosis, staff development and supporting team effectiveness. His contribution to the development of organisational psychology in Poland remains invaluable - we encourage you to read chapter to learn more about the scientist who set new standards in linking science and business.

Dr Witold Yakimko from the School of Vocational Training in the team working on a law to protect victims of human trafficking

26 May 2025 in Warsaw, another meeting of the expert group established by a joint decision of the Minister of the Interior and Administration and the Minister of Justice was held at the headquarters of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration. The purpose of the team's work was to Development of a draft anti-trafficking law.

The group included representatives of the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice, other ministries, relevant uniformed services, NGOs and research centres dealing with and combating trafficking in human beings.

The complex challenges of trafficking in human beings

Human trafficking is one of the most difficult crimes to detect and prosecute. Its transnational and cross-border nature means that it often involves multiple countries and requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies. An additional difficulty is the complexity of the investigations - the victims are sometimes intimidated and perpetrators operate within organised structuresusing sophisticated methods to conceal criminal activity.

Equally important are the challenges in the area of victim protection. Victims need comprehensive supportThis includes legal, psychological, social and, in many cases, medical assistance. This assistance requires the involvement of numerous institutions and long-term coordination.

Why is a separate law needed?

The new law has the potential to clean up prevention efforts, law enforcement and victim assistance. The need for it stems from the need to regulate these issues based on existing solutionssuch as the Anti-Drug Addiction Act or the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act.

Significantly, the draft legislation is also intended to implement the international obligations of the Republic of Poland, including obligations under international agreements and European Union directives. Its development required the involvement of experienced specialists from various disciplines - including lawyers, criminologists and psychologists.

Expert of the Higher School of Vocational Training in the composition of the team

Dr Witold Yakimko, assistant professor at the Institute of Law of the University of Vocational Training, participated in the work of the team. He represented both our University and the La Strada Foundation - organisation, which he has helped pro bono for many years, committing himself to the fight against human trafficking and modern slavery.