Psychology without borders: take part in WSKZ projects abroad and develop your competences

The WSKZ Centre for International Cooperation invites Psychology students to participate in international projects! Thanks to a partnership with the German organisation Pewobe g GmbH, the Centre for International Cooperation of the College of Vocational Training is pleased to offer Psychology students unique opportunities for professional and personal development through participation in two international projects: 

• Summer volunteering in Germany (Frankfurt (Oder), 20 July to 15 August 2025) - participation in the organisation of an international summer camp for young people, creation of workshops and activities. Costs are covered by the European Solidarity Corps. 
• "Pop-up Village" in Germany (Herzershof, from 1 to 29 June 2025) - working on projects in the fields of sustainability, ecology and community life, with the possibility of full EU EVS funding. 

Participation in the above projects is a great opportunity to develop your competences, learn languages, expand your international network and gain valuable experience. 

Applications: email the International Cooperation Centre and we will send you all the necessary information: cwm@wskz.pl. 

Number of places limited. Don't miss the opportunity for growth and international adventure!

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.

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.

The role of the expert in the search for missing persons and drowning victims - lecture by Maciej Rokus

On 17 May 2025, an expert lecture was held on the theme of 'The Future. "Trace on the other side - the role of the expert in the search for missing persons and drowning victims using the latest technology and forensic analysis". The event was organised on the initiative of the authorities of the Faculty of Social Sciences and brought together a large number of students, academics and people interested in criminology, psychology
and safety. The lecture was hosted by Mr. Maciej Rokus - Plenipotentiary of the Warmińsko-Mazurskie Voivode for Safety, head of the Polish Diving Special Group and an expert witness at the Regional Court in Katowice.

Key issues covered in the lecture

Attendees at the lecture were able to learn about our guest speaker's wide range of specialisms, including reservoir safety, in-water research with divers and sonar, search methods and victim location techniques in difficult conditions. During the meeting, the speaker presented a comprehensive overview of modern methods and tools used in the work of specialist teams. The presentation included numerous references to real-life cases, allowing participants to gain an insight into the practical aspects of an expert witness's work and the challenges of conducting searches in difficult water conditions.

Humanitarian dimension of search operations

Another important element of the lecture was the emphasis on the humanitarian dimension of search operations - roli empathy, responsibility and cooperation with the families of missing persons. The speaker drew attention to the need to combine technical knowledge
with sensitivity to human tragedies, which is an important foundation for the work of experts in the field.

Strong interest in a valuable lecture

The event was met with great interest from the academic community, as evidenced by the numerous questions to the guest speaker and active discussion after the speech. Participants emphasised the exceptional educational value of the meeting and its inspirational nature. On behalf of the Dean's team, we would like to thank Mr Maciej Rokus for accepting the invitation and all participants for their presence and activity. This lecture will certainly remain in the memory for a long time as a an example of the interdisciplinary combination of knowledge, experience and modern technology for safety and human life. After this lecture, we will certainly not look at the surface of the water the same way again.

Report after the workshop: Drugs and new psychoactive substances - diagnosis, prevention and challenges

On 24 May 2025, a stationary workshop entitled 'The importance of the project' took place at High School No. V at 14 Jacka Kuronia Street in Wrocław. "Drugs and new psychoactive substances. Phenomenon, determinants, diagnosis and therapy".conducted by Dr Mariusz Z. Jędrzejko - an expert in psychoprophylaxis. The event was organised by the Institute of Psychology at the WSKZ and was aimed at second-semester psychology students. The meeting was very popular with 25 participants.

Key issues addressed during the meeting

During the intensive workshop hours, participants had the opportunity to learn about the latest data and practices in identifying and preventing drug abuse. Topics covered included:

• development trends of drugs and NSP (new psychoactive substances);
• characteristics of the most common measures on the Polish market;
• the impact of stimulants on mental and physical health;
• the long-term effects of NSP use;
• techniques for recognising substance use behaviour;
• examples of effective drug prevention models.

Skills acquired by participants

The workshop was practical - in addition to gaining theoretical knowledge, participants also acquired competences useful in the work of a psychologist, such as:

• An analysis of contemporary addiction problems;
• ability to recognise drug and NSP use behaviour;
• Understanding the importance of prevention and how it can be implemented among young people.

Certificate and partners

Each participant received a certificate of participation signed by the Bonum Humanum Foundation - confirming the skills acquired and participation in the event.

5th International Scientific and Practical Conference "Health and Society in War"

On 16 May 2025, the 5th International Scientific and Practical Conference "Health and Society in War" took place, organised by the Central Ukrainian Institute of Human Development of the University of Ukraine in cooperation with the Higher School of Vocational Education in Wrocław. The event, held annually since 2022 as part of an international cooperation agreement in the field of science and development, brought together more than 220 participants from Ukraine, Poland, Moldova and the Netherlands. Among them were scientists, doctors, educators, lawyers, military officers, psychologists, social workers, representatives of the public sector and young academics.

Co-organisation and main international partner

University of Vocational Training in Wrocław (Poland) acted as the main international partner of the conference, providing significant organisational and content support. The event was attended by approximately 30 representatives of the University of Vocational Training in Wrocław - university authorities, academic staff and students - who actively participated in thematic sessions and presentations of research results.

The conference was supported by numerous academic institutions and organisations, including:

• Higher School of Vocational Training in Wrocław (Poland);
• Pomorska Szkoła Wyższa in Starogard Gdański (Poland);
• National Centre of Forensic Expertise of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Moldova (Moldova);
• Wszechnica Polish Academy of Applied Sciences in Warsaw (Poland);
• Faculty of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy at the National Medical University of Ivano-Frankivsk (Ukraine);
• Union of Entrepreneurs of Small, Medium and Privatised Enterprises of Ukraine (Ukraine).

Welcome to the participants and opening remarks

At the opening of the conference, distinguished representatives from the academic and scientific world addressed the participants, including:

• Petro Talanchuk - President of the Ukrainian University, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Professor, Member of the Academy of Pedagogical Sciences of Ukraine;
• Valentina Pupisheva - Director of the Central Ukrainian Institute of Human Development;
• Prof. Alexander Olšansky - Pro-rector for scientific and international activities of the University of 'Ukraine';
• Dr Irena Malinowska, Prof. WSKZ - Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław;
• Managers of educational, medical, rehabilitation and human rights institutions from different regions of Ukraine.

Key speeches and scientific topics

The conference was the venue for intense debates and research presentations on the rehabilitation of those affected by armed conflict, cyber threats in wartime settings, military mediation and issues in economics and economic resilience.

International cooperation and the importance of conferences

The conference highlighted the growing importance of internationalisation of academic cooperation and the exchange of experience between universities from different countries. During the event, participants received certificates confirming their participation and contributions to research. In addition, post-conference activities will include the publication of a joint international scientific publication, presenting the key findings and analyses presented during the scientific sessions.

Organisers and participants emphasised that the conference not only provides scientific solutions, but also builds a community united around the values of dignity, responsibility and academic development.

We would like to thank all the speakers, participants and partners for their commitment. Together - towards new scientific achievements!

We do not forget. College of Vocational Training supports the celebration of Missing Children's Day

25 May is a date that reminds us that behind every statistic is a story - family, hope and waiting. On this day, the International Day of the Missing Child is celebrated worldwide. In Poland, it is symbolised by the forget-me-not, a delicate flower that says one thing: we do not forget. Every year, the police receive nearly 2,000 reports of missing children and young people. Although most cases end up happily found, some remain unexplained for years. That is why it is so important to talk about prevention, education and cooperation - not just once a year.

Support systems that operate 24/7

Since 2011, the ITAKA Foundation has operated a 24-hour hotline in cases of missing minors - on behalf of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration. Two helplines are currently available:

• Missing Child and Teen Phone (open 24 hours a day) - 116 000.
• Support Line for Missing Persons' Families - 22 654 70 70.

In the event of a suspected crime or imminent threat to a child's life, the following may be activated system Child Alert - a special mechanism for the immediate dissemination of messages in public spaces and the media. Speed of response is crucial here.

Blue light of hope

In a gesture of solidarity with the families of missing persons Warsaw will light up in blue. The Palace of Culture and Science, the Śląsko-Dąbrowski Bridge, the Police Headquarters and Warsaw Spire will be illuminated to symbolically draw attention to a topic that affects us all. Blue is the colour of hope - and it is this hope that the families of children who still have not returned home need.

Collaboration of science and practice. Activities of the College of Vocational Training

The College of Vocational Training has been actively involved in the subject of disappearances for years - not only through education, but also through research. The university's initiatives are creating special issue of the magazine "Law and Safety", entirely devoted to the legal and social aspects of the search for missing persons.

In studies related to criminology and homeland security, students learn about the real-world tools used in search operations. A particular contribution to the development of research into disappearances has been made by Dr Irena Malinowska, an expert and author of publications including "Missing Persons as a Contemporary Security Threat", which has been researching the topic of disappearances in Poland and Europe for years.

In May, the School had the honour of hosting the President of the ITAKA Foundation, Anna Jurkiewiczwho shared her practical knowledge and experience of working with missing persons and their families during her lectures.

Joint debate on systemic solutions

As early as 12 June 2025, Dr Irena Malinowska, representing the School of Vocational Training, take part in an international conference organised by the ITAKA Foundation and the Missing Children Europe Federation. The meeting will take place at the Ministry of the Interior and Administration in Warsaw at 5 Stefana Batorego Street.

The theme will be parental abductions, teenage runaways and effective prevention strategies. The conference will bring together experts from all over Europe and aims not only to exchange knowledge, but above all to find concrete solutions to real problems.

Guest lecture on contemporary challenges in criminology - Professor Ewa Guzik-Makaruk at the School of Vocational Training

On 24 May 2025 at the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław, at the Institute of Criminology and Internal Security, a unique lecture was held hospitable chaired by Prof. zw. dr hab. Ewa Guzik-Makaruk from the University of Białystok - a prominent specialist in criminal law and criminology.

Lectures on contemporary challenges in criminology and criminal law

During the meeting Professor E. Guzik-Makaruk gave two lectures, addressing current and relevant issues in contemporary criminology and criminal law:

• "Selected legal and criminological aspects of organ, tissue and cell transplantation in Poland" - this lecture focused on an analysis of transplantation regulations, ethical challenges and the dangers of illegal trade in biological material.
• "Patostreaming and patoinfluencing as contemporary challenges for criminal law and criminology" - the second part of the meeting dealt with phenomena occurring in the digital space that have serious social and legal consequences, including demoralisation, violence and the limits of freedom of expression on the Internet.

The lecture was intended for second-level students in criminology studies. The meeting was of great interest and was an important addition to the curriculum, combining academic knowledge with current practice issues.

Our sincere thanks to Professor for their inspiring speeches and to all participants for their active participation.

Prominent representative of the Białystok school of criminology as a guest of our University

We are delighted to announce that our University will be visited by Prof. zw. dr hab. Ewa Guzik-Makaruk from the University of Białystok - a recognised expert in criminal law and criminology, representative of the the bialystok school of criminology.

On 24 May 2025 She will deliver two open lectures for students of Criminology first and second degree. This will be a unique opportunity to come into direct contact with a scientist with an established academic background, and at the same time a chance to confront theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Lecture topics:

1. Selected legal and criminological aspects of organ, tissue and cell transplantation in Poland.
2. Patostreaming and patoinfluencing as contemporary challenges for criminal law and criminology.

A meeting with the Professor will certainly enrich the didactic process, broaden the students' perspective and enable discussion of current issues in the contemporary world.