Representatives of the University of Zielona Góra –  Deputy Rector Prof. Justyna Patalas-Maliszewska, dr Paweł Truszkiewicz, Agnieszka Łaszczowska, and Agata Szuba – took part in the prestigious “Foreign Students in Poland 2025” conference. The event, organized by KRASP (Conference of Rectors of Academic Schools in Poland), the “Perspektywy” Educational Foundation, and the University of Gdańsk, brought together around 300 experts, including rectors, vice-rectors, and specialists in international cooperation.

Since the launch of the “Study in Poland” program in 2005, the number of international students in Poland has grown from 8,829 to 107,000 in the 2023/24 academic year. This achievement is the result of two decades of dedicated effort and development. Continued collaboration between academic institutions and government bodies remains essential for future progress. Prof. Bogumiła Kaniewska, Chair of KRASP and Rector of Adam Mickiewicz University, emphasized that multiculturalism has been a part of academic tradition since the Renaissance, saying: “Studying has always been a journey in search of knowledge.” She outlined a vision for Polish universities, adding: “Our dream is for international students to make up twenty percent of all students enrolled at our institutions.”

This year’s edition of the conference focused on the internationalization of science – a crucial element in the advancement of academia in Poland. International cooperation and the exchange of experiences are fundamental to modern higher education. As dr Bianka Siwińska, President of the Perspektywy Educational Foundation, summarized: “The Study in Poland program is the best embodiment of the global consensus – that solving global problems requires collaboration. For the past eighteen years, this annual conference has helped us strengthen cooperation, foster integration, engage in discussions, and ultimately find solutions to today’s most pressing challenges.” She concluded by wishing everyone fruitful and successful deliberations.

During the ceremonial gala on January 30, the following prestigious awards were presented:

• “INTERSTUDENT 2025” – for the best international student in Poland;

• “Stars of Internationalization 2025” – for individuals recognized for their contributions to the internationalization of Polish education.

The University of Zielona Góra is proud to be part of initiatives that support the global development of Polish education!