University of Vocational Training co-organises national research conference "1000 years of Poland in Europe - balance of experiences and vision for the future"
On 23-24 June 2025 a nationwide scientific conference entitled 'The Role of the European Union in the Social Sciences' was held at the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of Wrocław. "1000 YEARS - Poland in Europe. Taking stock of experience and a vision for the future".devoted to reflection on Poland's place and role in Europe over the millennium. The event was organised in the special year of Poland's assumption of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
We are proud to announce that the College of Vocational Training has acted as a co-organiser of the event, actively participating in both its preparation and expert sessions.
Interdisciplinary debate and presence of experts from all over Poland
The conference brought together more than 100 speakers from leading universities and research institutions from across the country. Topics covered included. Poland's international position, changes in the European system, challenges in the area of security, legal transformations and contemporary social and cultural phenomena.
The participation of representatives from the Vocational Training College was an important contribution to the analysis of the current challenges facing Poland and Europe. The presence of the university as a co-organiser confirmed the high level of research conducted science and its commitment to developing academic cooperation at national and international level.
Representatives of the Higher School of Vocational Training in expert panels
Representatives of the academic staff of the College of Vocational Training took part in the four thematic panels, presenting the results of his own research and addressing key issues related to European politics, law, international relations and intercultural dialogue:
- Poland and the European Union - Dr Wojciech Kazanecki: 'Building European soft power with the use of European Union observation missions in the world: a Polish perspective'.
- Multiple dimensions of law - Dr Magdalena Debita: 'Crimes committed with artificial intelligence and the transformation of contemporary criminal law and cyber security - selected issues'.
- Poland and Central and Eastern Europe in international relations - Dr Aneta Kazanecka: "Polish diplomacy towards the cultural challenges of the 21st century".
- Migrations, minorities, borderlands - MA Małgorzata Pacer: "Intercultural and interreligious dialogue as a path to peace and cooperation".
Participation in these deliberations was confirmed by an active presence of the university in the national academic community and its commitment to interdisciplinary scientific debate.
The conference was held in a stationary format in the rooms of the Institute of Political Science and the Institute of International and Security Studies at the University of Wrocław.
International cooperation of the University of Vocational Training
University College of Professional Education consistently develops academic contacts at international level. The university has recently signed four major agreements with partners in Europe and Asia, involving joint activities in education, research and academic exchange.
Agreement with the Swiss Institute of Management and Sciences in Switzerland
The College of Vocational Training has concluded a letter of intent for international cooperation with Swiss Institute of Management and Sciences (SIMS) - university based in Zug, specialising in areas such as management, finance, logistics, marketing or tourism.
As part of the cooperation, it was planned to teaching and research activities and exchanges of students and academic staff. SIMS offers high quality education, combining a modern approach to education with academic tradition. The university actively participates in international initiatives, working with partners such as. UNESCO and by organising exchanges, seminars and joint research.
Agreement with the Scientific Research Institute of State Building and Local Self-Government of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine
The College of Vocational Training has signed an agreement with the Scientific Research Institute of State Building and Local Self-Government of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine. It is a leading scientific centre for research into the organisation and functioning of the state, local government and legal systems in the context of public administration.
Cooperation shall include implementation of joint scientific projects, the exchange of knowledge and experience, the organisation of conferences, scientific publications and joint efforts to obtain grants. The agreement provides an important step in the development of joint research and academic exchange in the field of law and administration.
Cooperation with City Unity College Nicosia in Cyprus
City Unity College Nicosia has become another partner of the Higher School of Vocational Training. private educational institution operating in the Cypriot capital. Under the signed agreement, the parties will cooperate in the areas of science, teaching and academic exchange.
City Unity College Nicosia offers Bachelor and Master programmes in fields such as international management, administration, tourism, accounting or computer science. The university also runs studies in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University. In addition, it acts as an approved examination centre for VICTVS Global, conducting examinations for Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Agreement with the International University of Kyrgyzstan
The College of Vocational Training has also signed an agreement with the International University of Kyrgyzstan - one of the most important academic universities in the region Central Asia. IUK is active in education and research in areas such as management, economics, computer science, humanities and natural sciences.
The cooperation provides for joint research projects, student and faculty exchanges, the organisation of conferences and educational initiatives. The agreement aims to promote the quality of education and the development of international cooperation in academia.
Read MoreMissing children in Europe: shared responsibility and systemic action
On 12 June 2025, an international conference was held pt. Missing persons under 18 in Europe. Challenges, prevention and systemic solutions in the context of parental kidnapping and teenage runaways. The event was organised by ITAKA Foundation - Centre for Missing Persons and federation Missing Children Europe in cooperation with Ministry of the Interior and Administration.
The College of Vocational Training and services and organisations facing a common challenge
The conference was attended by representatives of the College of Vocational Training inter alia, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Dr Irena Malinowska and Director of the Institute of Criminology and Homeland Security Dr. Janusz Bryk. Also present were Deputy Minister for Internal Affairs and Administration Czesław Mroczek. At the opening, he stressed that the phenomenon of missing children and adolescents - especially runaways and parental abductions - is an increasingly serious challenge for European countries.
- We need to strengthen and develop even more effective cooperation mechanisms in Europe to react faster and better protect the youngest," he pointed out.
The event was also attended by representatives of national and international institutions, services and non-governmental organisations involved in the search for missing persons.
Thematic panels and conference objectives
The conference included three thematic panels dedicated to parental abductions, missing children in the context of the war in Ukraine and migration and teenage runaways.
It also discussed psychological and legal aspects of disappearances and an analysis of the actions of the services and NGOs. A key objective of the event was to develop common standards for action in Europe and to share good practice.
Parental kidnapping needs better legal cooperation in Europe
Parental abductions remain one of the most difficult legal and emotional challenges in missing children cases. In 2024, 1,338 such cases were reported in Europe, which was nearly 18.5 per cent. of all cases handled by European hotlines. The scale of parental abductions is increasing. Differing legal procedures in EU countries lengthen the process of returning a child home.
- We need uniform, harmonised procedures and real cooperation between countries to act effectively in such situations," stressed Deputy Minister Czesław Mroczek.
The deputy head of the Interior Ministry added that the disappearance of the child is a one of the most traumatic experiences for families - regardless of the child's social status, place of residence or age.
- That is why it is so important that we jointly evaluated existing procedures and searched for new tools. Such as will allow for faster and more effective exploration," said Czesław Mroczek.
Teenage runaways are an alarming sign of crisis
Another theme of the conference was teenage runaways. According to 116,000 as much as 66 per cent. of all missing children in Europe are runaways from homes or institutions care. In Poland, 1,413 such cases were reported in 2024 among people in 14-17 years old. A child running away is always a dramatic sign of a crisis in their environment - family, school or peers.
- It is our duty to create such a systemwhich will make it possible to catch these signals earlier and support young people accordingly," the deputy head of the Interior Ministry pointed out.
Polish police modernise search procedures
He spoke about the police's efforts to find missing children Superintendent Tomasz Michułka, Deputy Chief Constable of the Police.
- Every disappearance of a minor is a case that requires a great deal of attention and empathy from officers. I am pleased that in recent months Child Alert procedure proved effective again. However, by analysing each of its launches, we see room for further improvement," said Superintendent Tomasz Michułka.
He added that In the police, the final stage of work on the amendment is underway of the Regulations of the Police Chief Commandant on the conduct of searches for missing persons. The changes are intended to simplify the classification of searches and introduce more precise rules for triggering procedures in the case of missing children.
Common European recommendations
Anna Jurkiewicz, CEO of the ITAKA Foundation, pointed out that the conference has a mainly practical dimension, and not just analytical. She expressed the hope that the event would be followed by a concrete set of recommendations for institutions at national and European level. The conference was unique in that took place in the final weeks of the Polish Presidency of the EU Council. Deputy Minister Czeslaw Mroczek emphasised that Poland wants to be an active participant and initiator of European cooperation on child protection.
National International Scientific Conference "Communication and Security in Crisis, Border and Difficult Situations"
On days 5-6 June 2025 the International Scientific Conference on Communication in Crisis and Border Situations was held in Wrocław. The event was organised by Institute of Media and Social Communication of the University of Vocational Training chaired by Prof. Aleksander Woźnyand the conference became a space for interdisciplinary exchanges, reflections and analyses of the mechanisms of conformity, socio-cultural barriers to otherness and the challenges of the aid professions in the face of extreme situations such as armed conflicts, natural disasters or epidemics.
Welcome and opening of the conference
The conference was officially opened on behalf of the University authorities by Dr Irena Malinowska, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław, emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue and the need to jointly seek effective solutions for communication in crisis situations.
Inspiring talks and debate
The event started film screening "Waiting for the sky", directed by Alina Mrowinska (2020). The show was held in Sense Factoryfollowed by a moving debate with the documentary's protagonist. dr. n. med. Paweł GrabowskiPresident of the Prophet Elijah Hospice Foundation. The discussion provided an important opportunity to reflect on communication in the face of difficult decisions and borderline situations.
Experts and speakers
The conference was attended by eminent specialists from various fields, as well as students. Speakers included:
- Prof. zw. dr hab. n. med. Andrzej Gładysz - specialist in infectious diseases;
- Dr n. med. Pawel Grabowski - President of the Prophet Elijah Hospice Foundation;
- Prof. Dr. Aleksander Woźny - Director of the Institute of Media and Social Communication;
- Dr n. med. Krzysztof Szmyd - President of the Lower Silesian children's hospice "Formula of Good";
- Prof. Tomasz Pawłowski, MD, PhD - Head of the Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Disorders;
- Prof. Bozhidar Ivkov - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences;
- Monica Marinova - President of the Tarlov's Cyst Patients Association "Treatment Without Borders" (Bulgaria);
- Dr Oliwia Tarasewicz-Gryt - College of Vocational Training;
- Prof. Dr. Urszula Glensk - Institute of Journalism and Social Communication, University of Wrocław;
- Dr Tetiana Vlasevych - Ivan Franko National University of Lviv;
- Dr Michał Rydlewski - Institute of Journalism and Social Communication, University of Wrocław;
- Dr Jerzy Luty - College of Vocational Training;
- Dr n. vet. Wojciech Hildebrand - Vice President of the Council of the Lower Silesian Chamber of Veterinary Medicine;
- Aleksandra Keller, MA - President of the Kociniec Cat Orphanage Foundation.
Summary and conclusions
At the end of the conference, students and participants summarised the issues raised and pointed out the need to continue discussions and further research in the field of crisis communication. Due to the great interest and positive reception of the event, it was reported that a second edition of the conference will be organised to explore this important topic in even greater depth.
Read MoreInternational 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.
Read MoreParticipation 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.
Read MoreScience in the face of conflict - 5th International Scientific and Practical Conference "Health and Society in War"
Already on 16 May 2025, the 5th International Scientific and Practical Conference "Health and Society in War" will be held.. The event will be held in an online format and provides an important international forum for analysing social and health challenges in the context of armed conflict.
The conference is organised by the School of Vocational Training in Wrocław in cooperation with the Central Ukrainian Institute of Human Development at the Ukrainian University.
Purpose and scope of the event
The conference aims to provide an interdisciplinary analysis of the the impact of war situations on society and health. The discussion will cover medical, psychological, social and administrative issues, showing the the full spectrum of the consequences of armed conflict.
Participants and representation of the University
The event will be attended by researchers and practitioners from many countries, representing renowned academia and public health and social policy institutions.
Higher School of Vocational Training in Wrocław will be represented by:
- Dr Bartosz Blaszczak - Managing Director.
- Dr Irena Malinowska - Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences.
- Dr Justyna Jasińska-Rudzka - Associate Dean for Educational Quality.
- Dr Aneta Kazanecka - Vice Dean for Student Affairs.
- Dr Wojciech Kazanecki - Chair of the Stakeholder Council.
- Dr Marika Szymanska - Director of the Institute of Management and Quality Sciences.
- Dr Natalia Najgiebauer - Programme Director of the Law, Law in Business and Administration courses.
- Dr Mariusz Michalski - Assistant Professor at the Institute of Criminology and Homeland Security.
Post-conference publication
The conference will culminate in the joint publication of a scientific monograph, featuring articles by participants on the impact of armed conflict on different areas of societies.
The authors will undertake an interdisciplinary analysis of social, health and administrative issues, demonstrating the complexity of the challenges faced by individuals and institutions under conditions of war. This monograph will become an important contribution to the development of research on the impact of armed conflict and its long-term effects on public health and the social fabric.
You are cordially invited to attend in this significant scientific event!
Read MoreFrom Lower Silesia to Europe - students of the Academy of Vocational Training at the International Job Fair
As early as 15 May 2025, students University College of Professional Education take part in the International Job Fair "With EURES to Europe!"which will take place between 09:30 and 14:00 at Tarczynski Arena Wrocław. This is the largest recruitment event in Lower Silesia, aimed at jobseekers planning their professional development or thinking about a career abroad.
More than 100 exhibitors and first-hand practical knowledge
More than 100 exhibitors from Poland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Estonia and Slovenia are expected to attend. The event will feature presentations on apprenticeship programmes, social security schemes, career development, and franchising.
This is an excellent opportunity to find out about career opportunities at home and abroad and speak directly to representatives of companies and institutions. Students of the College of Vocational Training -. You can't miss it! You are cordially invited to attend.
Read MoreThe International Scientific and Practical Conference organised by our University took place on 29 April.
In an era of increasing digitalisation and global technological challenges, international cooperation is a key foundation for the development of education and research. University College of Professional Education (Poland) and Vasyl Sukhomlynski Department of ICT and Safe Learning Environment KPI (Ukraine) launched a joint initiative to organise International Scientific and Practical Conferencewhich took place on 29 April 2025 in an online format using the ZOOM platform.
Aim of the conference
The conference was designed as a space to integrate researchers, experts, educators and technology practitioners, enabling the exchange of knowledge and experience in the digital transformation of education. The event aimed to:
- An analysis of the key challenges arising from digitisation processes in education.
- Promoting innovative technological solutions to support teaching.
- Exchange of international experiences on the adaptation of educational systems to modern technological requirements.
Thematic areas of the conference
The conference covered the following topics:
- The European experience of digital transformation of education.
- Development of digital competences of educational participants.
- Psychological, pedagogical and methodological aspects of the use of information technology in education.
- Artificial intelligence systems and technologies in educational activities.
- Safe learning environments in the context of digital transformation.
- Universal learning process design in the digital age.
- Legal aspects of the digitisation of education.
- Ethical, social and psychological consequences of the digital transformation of education.
Organisers and international scientific committee
The joint initiative to organise the conference stems from the dynamic cooperation between the University of Vocational Training in Wrocław and Vasyl Sukhomlynsky KPI. This partnership is an example of effective international action for science and development.
Importance of international cooperation
The partnership between Poland and Ukraine strengthens scientific exchange and the development of joint research projects in education. Cooperation between the two institutions contributes to the promotion of innovative educational standards and global solutions for digital transformation.
Read MoreExcellent scientific event at the College of Vocational Training in Wrocław - guest lecture by Prof. Peter Nijkamp and Dr. Karima Kourtit
On 26 April 2025, the College of Vocational Training hosted a unique academic event - a guest lecture by two prominent figures of world science, Prof Peter Nijkamp and Dr Karima Kourtit. The auditorium attracted a large number of students and academics who attended the event with great interest. The lectures delivered by our guests were not only a source of a huge dose of knowledge, but also a inspiration for deeper reflection on the challenges of today.
Prof. Peter Nijkamp on AI in urban planning processes
Professor Peter Nijkamp, one of the world's most influential regional economists, Professor Emeritus of the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam and former President of the Regional Science Association International, presented a lecture entitled Artificial Intelligence: Save Our Souls - More Information, Better Planning?. In his speech, the Professor gave an extremely insightful overview of the the role of artificial intelligence in spatial and social planning processesemphasising the importance of using modern technology. His profound erudition, clarity of delivery and unique ability to combine science with practice impressed the audience.
Speech by Dr Karim Kourtit on the governance of modern cities
Dr Karima Kourtit, a distinguished economist and urban planner affiliated with the Open University of the Netherlands and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, spoke next. In her lecture titled 'The urbanisation of the Netherlands. Urban Love in Troubled Cities Dr Kourtit raised issues relating to urban dynamics, migration and innovation in the management of modern cities. Its interdisciplinary approach, based on research and practical experience, opened up new perspectives on the future of urbanised areas to the audience.
The lecture section was followed by a lively session of questions and insights, which turned into a passionate discussion. Students and participants in the meeting were keen to take advantage of the opportunity for one-to-one discussions with the speakersThe atmosphere of mutual exchange of ideas and scientific curiosity continued late into the afternoon. An atmosphere of mutual exchange of ideas and scientific curiosity accompanied us until late in the afternoon.
Guests visited key sites in Wrocław
The following day, Prof. Peter Nijkamp and Dr Karima Kourtit had the opportunity to learn more about the charms of Wrocław. The guests visited the city's most important monuments, starting with the monumental Panorama of Racławicewhich delighted them with its artistic grandeur and rich historical content. During a walk around Ostrów Tumski they admired the majestic St John the Baptist Cathedral - a pearl of Gothic architecture. The tour could not miss a visit to the Leopoldina Hall of Wrocław Universitywhere the baroque interiors and rich history of the city's academic life made a special impression on visitors. Wrocław Market Square with its impressive Town HallThe Pillory and charming townhouses were the next stop on the route to discover the cultural heritage of the capital of Lower Silesia. Among the many impressions, there was also the admiration of the wrocław dwarves - a symbol of the city which, as our guests emphasised, gives it a unique character and atmosphere.
Academics appreciate WSKZ's commitment
Professor Peter Nijkamp and Dr Karima Kourtit emphasised the exceptionally friendly atmosphere of the meeting, the high quality of the questions asked and the the high level of commitment and friendliness of the students of the College of Vocational Training. In their speeches, they also drew attention to the beauty of Wrocław, appreciating its rich history, architecture and unique character. They expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome and their hope for further development of scientific cooperation and further meetings in the future.
