International Relations Office News
2012
News Opole University of Technology
University Joins Consortium PROGRES 3 Postgraduate Studies on International Business EU-China U.S. Ambassador for Poland at OUTech
Content
PREFACE 03 University International Cooperation for the benefit of the Region – foreword by Rector Marek Tukiendorf POLISH – AMERICAN COOPERATION 04 U.S. Ambassador Lee A. Feinstein visits our University 05 University Medal for Consul General Allen Greenber First Polish University Fair in Chicago, Schaumburg 06 Polish - American Summer School 2012 Collaboration offer from Texas Institute of Science Nadiya Ziyadek, US Vice Consul, openes NASA exhibit COOPERATION POLAND-CHINA 07 Continuous development of academic relations with Beijing University of Technology Title of Honorary Professor of BJUT for Prof. Jerzy Skubis 08 Representatives Office of Chinese Language Council International at Opole Confucius Institute 09 Postgraduate Studies – International Business EU-China – Interview with Mr. Sun Yingnan Chinese Culture Day 10 The year of the Dragon & Chinese Artistic Gymnasts Show
04 U.S. Ambassador’s visit to Opole University of Technology
STUDENTS RESEARCH ACTIVITY 11 IEEE Opole Student Branch – enjoying benefits of being a member CONSORTIUM PROGRES 3 12 Opole University of Technology joins International Consortium 13 Consortium Board Meeting – photo gallery ERASMUS PROGRAMME 14 Erasmus Mobility grows fast 5th INTERNATIONAL MEETING ‘25th Anniversary of launching LLP Erasmus– past achievement and future perspective’ 15 Everything starts with simple “Cześć’’ – Can Balli from Turkey talks about his stay in Poland 16 International Cooking Days – tasting flavors of Europe 17 International Football Games Welcoming Erasmus Students 18 Erasmus Academic Stories Student Mobility for Studies 20 Student Mobility for Placement 22 Erasmus Staff Mobility FOREIGN STUDENTS STUDYING IN POLISH LANGUAGE 24 ‘We all appreciate the fact that we are here’ - interview with Julietta Siui and Dmitro Izvarin
07 OUTech extends cooperation with Beijing University of Technology
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INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES 26 International Students in the Opole Region and what next? 27 3rd IEEE Conference on Electrodynamics and Mechatronics – III SCE 6-8 of October 2011 EURO 2012 28 EURO 2012 – Student Total Football Madness JOINT STUDIES 30 Joint Studies – Cooperation with University of Eastern Piedmont, Italy
UNIVERSITY INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE REGION
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hile the whole state is being occupied with the organization of the forthcoming 2012 UEFA European Championship, our University has been focused on improving its international actions considering the interest of the Opole Region, its economic, business and educational development.
On the initiative of our long time partner, VŠB– Technical University of Ostrava, in October 2011 we signed the cross-boarded memorandum, establishing international Consortium PROGRES 3 that currently includes 11 partner universities from Czech, Slovakia and Poland. The first Consortium Board meetings helped to set collaboration objectives and to create promising atmosphere for future joint international projects. Understanding the importance and potential of foreign students, we organized the international conference on “International student in the Opole Region and what next? ”. We believe that better understanding of other cultures can help local society to work more effectively for the advantage of the whole province. We maintain our successful cooperation with China and Beijing University of Technology. Thanks to the Opole Confucius Centre we remain a crucial link in regional cooperation with World’s second largest economy. Not only we organize cultural events and promote Chinese culture but also help to promote the region and assist in business negotiations. What is more, we recently launched postgraduate studies in Cross-cultural Management EU-China.
Facing dilemmas resulted from demographic low, we launched international promo campaign. Representatives of our University participated in first Polish University Fairs in United States, that took place in Chicago and included exclusive appearance of Polish universities in the famous Polish Constitution Day Parade covered by ABC television network. In the result of our efforts students from Ukraine, Belarus, Latvia and US started studies in Polish language. Thanks to long-term partnership with Illinois State University we organize Polish-American Summer School combined with the international conference “Physical activity as a cure”. By reason of collaboration with 118 European higher institutions, we yearly receive more than 160 Erasmus students. Rapidly growing figures prove our fine reputation abroad. Our academic society benefit from fantastically developed mobility, enhancing their own skills, broadening horizons and hosting university education quality on higher level. It is with great satisfaction I introduce you the new edition of IRO News that provides insight into the evolution of the university international activeness. Having the opportunity I would like to express my gratitude to the International Relations Office staff for all their efforts in preparing the present publication. I trust you will take pleasure in reading it. Prof. Marek Tukiendorf Rector of Opole University of Tecgnology
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POLISH-AMERICAN COOPERATION
Lee A. Feinstein
U.S. AMBASSADOR VISITS OPOLE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
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n 13th April 2012, Lee A. Feinstein, Ambassador of the United States to Poland, visited Opole University of Technology to meet with university academics and students of institutions of higher education and high schools in Opole. Ambassador Feinstein addressed a lecture on international relations titled ‘The Next Generation of Partnership: the United States, Poland and the Transatlantic Relationship’. He was accompanied by other prominent guests – Allen Greenberg, U.S. Consul General, and Nadia Ziyadeh, Vice Consul. The visit was organized by the US Consulate General in Krakow in cooperation with the university’s international Relations Office. The Ambassador spoke to a packed main conference hall about current and previous state of relations between Poland and United States and major goals of our cooperation. He spoke about the importance of continued engagement in Ukraine and in Belarus. He stressed the importance of common work on promoting democracy. The American delegation also provided information on scholarship programs and possibilities of studying and working in the United States and graciously answered questions from the audience on U.S. foreign policy. During his visit to Opole, Ambassador Feinstein opened the U.S. culture and information centre “america@your library” at the Opole Municipal Public Library. The Opole library is the first place in Poland to receive the centre that now provides our citizens with an opportunity to use resources and internet data bases available to people in United States. Thanks to the U.S. Embassy project the people of Opole have access to American books, magazines and newspapers and information on literature, technology and science, English learning materials. They will also have the chance to participate in seminars, lectures and presentations related to American culture. Ambassador Feinstein was undoubtedly one of the most distinguished guests ever to visit Opole University of Technology. It was a genuine honor to meet and listen to this high -ranking diplomat. The Ambassador was kind enough to answer a few of our questions prior to his departure. 4 | iRO News
What have you already achieved and what are you hoping to achieve as US Ambassador to Poland? Ambassador Feinstein: I think the most important thing is to build and frame the basis of our relationship for today and for the future. In the past it was easier to identify our goals. Achieving NATO and EU membership for Poland and helping Poland at the early stages of its transition. But now Poland is in the European Union, has a strong economy and is an important voice in Europe. That means we have to do things differently. My goal is to promote security and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, and we are also working together to deepen democracy. How do you think EURO 2012 will change Poland? Amb. Feinstein: It already has changed Poland. We are expecting a large number of Americans to come to the EURO Cup which is interesting since there won’t be an American team here. EURO will bring lots of people who have not been to Poland before and they will have a chance to see all of the changes. A lot of people, when they think of Poland, they think back to solidarity and to the transition. Now they will see new stadiums, new airports and places of accommodation. I think everyone will be very impressed. Mr. Ambassador, what do you do in your free time? Amb. Feinstein: That’s a good question. I’ve got two kids – one is eight years old and one in five. They occupy most of my wife’s and my free time. We like to travel around Poland. We take them swimming to the Water Park located close to our house. We also have a lot of Polish friends and we enjoy the opportunity to get out of the diplomatic circle and to socialize with people who over the years have become very dear to us.
UNIVERSITY MEDAL FOR CONSUL GENERAL ALLEN GREENBERG
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n 5th July 2012 Prof. Krzysztof Malik, Vice-Rector Elect for Cooperation and Development and Tomasz Kostuś, ViceGovernor of Opolskie Region, visited Cracow to participate in U.S. Consulate General’s annual American Independence Day celebration. This year the reception took place in the Polish Aviation Museum and marked the opening of “Women In Aviation” exhibition. The exhibition was officially opened by Krzysztof Radwan, Museum Director, who welcomed all distinguished guests along with Lee A. Feinstein, U.S. Ambassador to Poland.
Mrs. Haruko Greenberg as well as to Anna Braghetty and Benjamin Ousley-Naseman, U.S. Vice Consuls and also to Jeffrey Vick, Chief of Consular Section and Tim Huson, Chief of Administrative Section, who for several years have worked together on their diplomatic mission to Poland.
On this occasion Prof. Malik presented the University Medal to Allen Greenberg, U.S. Consul General, who was honoured by University Parliament for an outstanding contribution in developing cooperation between Opole University of Technology and the Consulate General of United States in Cracow. Prof. Malik on behalf of Prof. Jerzy Skubis and Prof. Marek Tukiendorf congratulated Consul Greenberg on his achievements as Consul General and extended best wishes for his future endeavours. Celebrating the 236th anniversary of America’s independence was also an occasion to bid farewell to Consul Greenberg and his wife
FIRST POLISH UNIVERSITIES FAIR IN UNITED STATES
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pole University of Technology had a pleasure to present its education offer to Polish minority and American youth during First Polish Universities Fair in United States that took place in Chicago-Schaumburg in May 2011. Representatives of nineteen Polish universities (among them Wroclaw University of Technology, Lodz University of Technology, Lazarski University) has possibility to speak to visitors and encourage them to study in Poland. The event was organized by International Center for Education Abroad USA in cooperation with ‘Perspektywy’ Education Foundation as well as Polish Schools in US - Nicholaus Copernicus in Niles and Emilia Plater in Bartlett. Professor Marek Tukiendorf, Vice-Rector for Science, was one of the initiators and supporters of first edition of Polish educational fair in United States. Participation of Opole University of Technology Chicago-Schaumburg Fair emphasized the intensity of university international activeness. Each year more than 150 foreign students study at our University. Being aware of the importance of internationalization in development of the academic environment, we are doing our best to promote our offer among candidates from U.S. – said Prof. Marek Tukiendorf. I am very pleased that it was eventually possible to organize 1st Polish Unviesite’s Fair. The event proved to be a total success. About a half thousand vividly interested visitors took chance to get acquainted with the possibilities of studying in Poland.
In addition representatives of Polish universities participated in Polish Constitution Day Parade in Chicago, the largest Polish Parade outside Poland. They marched along among other Polish minority institutions, spreading information of the initiative among thousands of people gathered along the parade boulevard and those watching local news as the event was broadcasted by ABC7. The idea of taking part in the parade was excellent. Polish universities will not have to wait long for the effects of their promo campaign in United States – added Prof. Tukiendorf/.
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POLISH-AMERICAN SUMMER SCHOOL 2012
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his year’s edition of Polish-American Summer School was organized by Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy in collaboration with International Relations Office under the auspices of Marshall of Opole Region, Józef Sebesta and President of Opole, Ryszard Zembaczyński. American students from Illinois State University for the third time visited Opole University of Technology, but for the first time took part in the lectures and classes at the State Medical College in Opole. Our teaching staff arranged whole
spectrum of classes from different scientific fields for American and Polish students. Ten students of Illinois State University were assisted by Professor Deborah Garrahy from Department of Physical Education-Teacher Education and Daphyne Walker. During their stay in Poland American students had a chance to get to know Polish culture, tradition and history. They visited Krakow and Auschwitz Birkenau Museum as well as the city of Wrocław.
COLLABORATION OFFER FROM TEXAS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE
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n February 2012 Prof. Marek Tukiendorf met with Laslo Olah, President of Texas Institute, and Prof. Henryk Bala of Czestochowa University of Technology to discuss possibilities of cooperation with Texas University of Technology. According to its mission TxIS provides dynamic and client-oriented research application and engineering services that meet its clients’ scientific, technological and business needs. Its goal is commercialize innovations and inventions created by associated professors and researchers. Collaboration with TxIS would enable our scientific staff to gain funds for research as well as possibility of applying their work into innovative manufacturing solutions.
NADIA ZIYADEH, US VICE CONSUL, OPENS NASA EXHIBIT
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adia Ziyadeh, US Vice Consul, visited Opole University of Technology on December 2011 on the occasion of the ‘Era of New Discoveries. 50 Years of NASA’ exhibit Opening Ceremony. Consul Ziyadeh ceremonially opened the exposition that consisted of about forty photographs depicting research programs conducted by National Aeronautics and Space Administration throughout its 50 years of its existence. Our guests had chance to get a bit closer to events of Apollo Program, Space Shuttle Missions, Cassini-Huygens Mission, Hubble space telescope work, Phoenix Mission and observation of the Earth from outer Space doings. The exhibition was opened until January 2012. 6 | iRO News
After the opening Ziyadeh gave informative speech on possibilities of study and work in United State. during the meeting with our students. The packed lecture hall seemed to prove our students are interested in participating in Work & Travel Program continuing their education in American universities. During the after-lecture lunch Nadia Ziyadeh discussed further collaboration between regional authorities and U.S. Consulate General in Cracow with Arkadiusz Wiśniewski. Vice President of the City of Opole, Dorota Michniewicz-Witkowska, Head of City Department of Culture, Sport and Tourism and Maciej Wujec - Head of Economy and City Promotion Department.
COOPERATION POLAND-CHINA
CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENT OF ACADEMIC RELATIONS WITH BEIJING UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
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eijing University of Technology and Opole University of Technology remain their relations close and do not stop their in their efforts of intensifying Polish-Chinese academic collaboration. Last year we had great honor to host University president Prof. Guo Guangsheng on the occasions of the official academic inauguration. Mr. President was accompanied by seven high-rank representatives who during their business trip to Europe. During the inauguration ceremony Prof. Guangsheng addressed an impressive and truly intense speech stressing out the importance of our long-term academic alliance partnership. After the ceremony distinguished Chinese delegates participated in the meeting with representatives of our European partner universities. The visit was completed with the official dinner in charming interiors of Rogów Opolski Palace. As confirmed by Prof. Wu Wenying, Director of International Exchanges, this year once again we will be delighted be the presence of four prominent representatives along with Prof. Wang Shoufa, Chairman of BJUT Council, who will participate in the Grand Academic Inauguration 2012 and international symposium ‘EU-China Academic Collaboration – opportunities and difficulties’.
TITLE OF HONORARY PROFESSOR OF BJUT FOR PROF. JERZY SKUBIS
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ith the intention of marking out successful five-year cooperation between Opole University of Technology and Beijing University of Technology as well and contribution of Professor Jerzy Skubis, Former Rector of Opole University of Technology, to development of Poland – China cooperation he was officially honored by Beijing University of Technology with university title of honorary professor. A solemn ceremony held on 7th March 2012 of presenting the honorary tile was chaired by Prof. Guo Guangsheng, Rector of Beijing Tech, and Prof. Wang Shoufa, Chairman of University Council. Prof. Maria Bernat, Director of Opole Confucius Institute, claimed that is was a great honor for our University. She added that thanks to work of Opole Confucius Institute Polish-Chinese collaboration grows to be more fruitful. During ceremonial speech Prof. Jerzy Skubis had pleasure to address, he mentioned the significance of the work done by Prof. Marek Tukiendorf who initiated the idea of establishing Center for PolandChina Cooperation In Opole. He also emphasized the huge role of Prof. Bernat and Yingan Sun, International Cooperation Specialist, in developing the Institute into one of the most resilient and buoyant in Europe. iRO News | 7
POSTGRADUATE STUDIES IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS EU-CHINA INTERVIEW WITH YINGNAN SUN
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entre for Cooperation Poland-China Opole Confucius Institute led by Maria Bernat, Director of the Institute, strongly promotes Chinese language and culture. The Centre in Opole is one of the two hundred such offices in the world associated in international web and one of four Confucius Institutes located in Poland. The Institute is working for the benefit of the Opole University of Technology and the community of the Opolskie Region. The Opole Confucius Institute Board includes representatives of local authorities, with Mr. Józef Sebesta, Governor of Opolskie Region, at the head. Confucius Center specialists help to build business relations with potential investors from China. In academic year 2011/12 Opole Confucius Centre with cooperation with Faculty of Economy and Management opened Postgraduate Studies in International Business EU-China. Studies are co-financed by 50 percent by Hanban. We talk with Yingnan Sun, Specialist for International Relations, about his impressions of running postgraduate studies, assisting former university rector during the ceremony of receiving honors in Beijing, developing Polish-China cooperation and future plans for the Institute. Where the idea of launching cross-cultural studies came from? Was it simply a natural consequence of using your connections with specialists and experts for Polish-Asian relations and willingness of starting up initiative that respond to the needs of local market? Yingnan Sun: Generally speaking, the main task of a Confucius Institute is Chinese language teaching. In this respect Confucius Institute Headquarters has done tremendous efforts in supporting the individual institutes established worldwide. In the last 8 years the political, economical and cultural exchanges between China and the world have undergone a tremendous development. In some countries the pure Chinese language teaching has become not enough to cover the diversifying demand of the local communities of the host countries. As an educational institute of China, it is natural that Confucius Institutes have to diversify it offers. Even since its establishment in 2008, Confucius Institute in Opole has been constantly requested by the leadership of Opole University of Technology and Marshal Office of the Opole Province to serve the need of the local communities in economic cooperation to China. With this mind, we firstly initiated the plan of the Post-graduate Studies Cross-culture Management EU-China in 2009 and the Confucius Institute Headquarters (Hanban) approved to give the financial support to the project. The formalities of establishing a study and the sourcing of Polish and Chinese scholars and experts took us a longer time. So we could finally realize the program in 2011. Who are the people that enrolled for the studies. What sectors do they represent? Y.S.: In the 2011/2012 academic year 20 students were enrolled. They came from all walks of life. Majority of them are the employees of governmental organizations, educational institutions and private enterprises. 8 | iRO News
How would you sum up the first year of carrying out the studies? Do you consider it a success? Y.S.: Since it is the first educational program of such kind in Poland, I consider it a success. The reflections to the studies that I heard from different sources are positive. We gained a lot of valuable experiences in this year and we need to make improvements in the topic selection and in the coordination of the lecturers, so that the contents of the courses may even better suit the needs of the students Director of Confucius Institute, Director Bernat and yourself had accompanied Prof. Jerzy Skubis, Rector of Opole University of Technology, during his last business trip to China, where he was honored with the title of honorary professor at the Beijing University of Technology. Could you briefly describe that visit to Beijing? Prof. Skubis is the forth honorary professor that Beijing University of Technology has granted since 60 years. Beijing University of Technology elaborately held a ceremony for the event. The rector of Beijing University of Technology Prof. Guo Guangshen and chairman of the university council Prof. Wang Shoufa highly appreciate very much Prof. Skubis’ contribution to the academic exchange between China and Poland and his keen support to the joint project of two universities Confucius Institute in Opole. During the his visit in Beijing Prof. Skubis had a several meetings with Prof. Gua Guangsheng and Prof. Wang Shoufa. Both sides introduced each other’s education systems, administration systems and the challenges that they are facing. Both side emphasized that they will give their further support to Confucius Institute in Opole. Prof. Wang Shoufa especially took time to accompany Prof. Skubis’ to visit China National Museum, which is an extremely friendly attitude of an university director. Also, in the spare time Prof. Skubis visited a famous Buddhist temple in the west mountains near Beijing. What are the Institute’s plans for the next academic year? I am sure your actions will be fully supported by Rector-elect, Prof. Marek Tukiendorf, key initiator of the cooperation with Beijing Tech. Y.S.: My first encounter with Prof. Tukiendorf was in 2008 when he expressed his willingness to establish a Confucius Institute in Opole. His determination and agility left me a very deep impression. He is not only the initiator but also an active promoter of Confucius Institute in Opole. Thank to his engagement, Confucius Institute in Opole could quickly gain the ground and win the popularity. I am quite confident that the Confucius Institute in Opole under the leadership of Prof. Tukiendorf will gain a further momentum to develop. As far as the programs of the next academic year concerned, we have a plan which is under the assessment of Hanban at the moment. According to the plan, we are going to repeat the post-graduate studies Cross-cultural Management EU-China, we are going to open Chinese language courses in local primary schools, we are going to organize a couple of culture events and we are also going to edit a book composed by the interesting stories written by the Chinese and Polish people who have been in each other’s countries.
REPRESENTATIVES OFFICE OF CHINESE LANGUAGE COUNCIL INTERNATIONAL
AT OPOLE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE
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n 18th May 2012 distinguished representatives of Office of Chinese Language Council International (HANBAN), visited Opole Confucius Institute. Our eminent guests met with Prof. Jerzy Skubis, Rector of Opole University of Technology, and Ms. Barbara Kamińska, Vice Governor of Opolskie Province. The Office of Chinese Language Council International is the headquarters of Confucius Institute (the well-known name “HANBAN” is its Chinese abbevriation) and its mission is to help to develop Chinese language and culture teaching resources and making its services available worldwide, meeting the demands
of overseas Chinese learners to the utmost degree, and to contributing to global cultural diversity and harmony. To reach its administrative goal, Hanban regularly sends its representatives worldwide to check the work of the individual Confucius Institutes. It was the first time that the representatives came to Poland and for the trip they chose two Confucius Institutes to check: Confucius Institute in Opole and Confucius Institute in Krakow. In Opole the delegates listened to the report of the directors of the Confucius Institute and held a free talk with the Chinese and Polish teaching staffs. They got acquainted with present work of the Confucius Institute and the plan of its furture development.
CHINESE CULTURE DAY
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ooperation between Opole Confucius Institute and International Relations Office resulted in organizing Chinese Culture Day in order to promote Chinese culture among our international students who participated in Tai-Chi show, took part in a short calligraphy seminar and learn how to cook Chinese food. Most of the event were led by the most wonderful and devoted lecturer of Chinese language, Ms. Yang Jun. She managed to get involved initially skeptical student into games that brought them closer to traditions of Zhōngguó.
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THE YEAR OF THE DRAGON
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ccording to Chinese Zodiac, the Year 2012 is the year of the Dragon. It began on January 23rd and will end on 9th February 2013. It is the fifth sign of the zodiac, which consist 12 Animal signs. In China dragon Is a symbol power, strength and good luck. It is said the people born in the Year of Dragon are innovative, brave and passionate. They tend to take trilling risks yet are smart and righteous. Considering the above the Opole Confucius Center has invited to Opole two outstanding Chinese artistic acts to perform in Opole on 3rd February 2012. Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe of China and Beijing Modern Folk Orchestra in Opole established in 1951. The Acrobatic Troupe from Shenyang is one of the best and most famous professional acrobatic groups in China. As a ‘messenger of friendship’, having a chance to perform in White House in 1972, Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe plays an important role in maintaining fine diplomatic relationship between China and US. Over years, during 90 global tours, the Troup has visited more than 500 cities in 70 countries. The Troupe Artistic program include Lion Dance, Comic Act of Balancing on A Plank, Dunhuang Butterflies, Carrying Sedan, Morning Drill of Shaolin Monks, Jumping on the Pole and Fantasy of Heaven. Over twenty acrobatic acts with 150 performing artists have won numerous gold, silver and bronze medals as well as top awards in numerous prestigious international and national acrobatic competitions, such as Festival Mondial du Cirque de L’avenir. Jumpin, Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, Cuban International Acrobatic Festival, China Wuqiao International Acrobatic Festival, National New Seeding Cup Acrobatic Contest, China Wuhan Acrobatic Contest, Chinese National Acrobatic Contest. The Beijing Modern Folk Orchestra is an innovative group of young artists who play traditional Chinese music using traditional instruments and dance The Orchestra appeared many times on the Chinese National Television and performed in shows that accompanied Olympic Games 2008 and The EXPO Shanghai China in 2010. The show was held in the Main Sport Hall at the II University Campus. Fantastic and gifted artist presented truly amazing acrobatic bicycle riding, bloodcurdling high-chairs evolutions and mind-blowing jugglery.
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STUDENT RESEARCH ACTIVITY
IEEE OPOLE STUDENT BRANCH
– ENJOYING BENEFITS OF BEING A MEMBER by Piotr Graca, M.Sc. Eng., IEEE Opole Student Branch Chairman, Ph.D. student
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EEE Opole Student Branch was established in 2007 by members of the Student Research Group ELEDYN from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Automatic Control and Computer Science at the Opole University of Technology. The IEEE Opole SB membership is dedicated to undergraduate and graduate students with desire to work on international projects in highly motivated group. The strategy of the branch includes promotion of IEEE organization and the advantages of IEEE membership. Moreover, the branch helps students to expand their interests in electrical engineering and computer science. Finally, the branch gives all members opportunities to form their careers in a chosen profession. Activity of the IEEE Opole Student Branch is focused on realization of engineering projects, meetings with professionals in different technical fields, excursions to research and industrial centers, participation in the national and international student conferences, participation in the Opole Festival of Science, organization of workshops, trainings and thematic courses, organization of development seminars and technical conferences. The branch also co-operates closely with IEEE Poland Section Magnetic Chapter as well as with foreign scientific institutions. During the last five years of motivating work the IEEE students members were able to organize significant events. For the most important achievements we can include foreign scientific workshops in 2007 in Munich – Garching (Germany) where the students visited Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, General Electric research center, Deutsches Museum and BMW Welt. Then in 2008, as the first group from the Opole Voivodeship, students took a part in scientific workshops organized in the research units of CERN - Organisation
Européenne pour la Recherche Nucléaire in Geneva, (Switzerland) and ESRF - European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble (France). Since 2007 and every two years, the IEEE Opole Student Branch has been co-organizing the International Students Conference on Electrodynamics and Mechatronics (SCE). In 2011 the members successfully ran the third edition of the conference. The members of Opole branch were also invited to the most important international students congresses such as IEEE Region 8 Student Branch & GOLD Congress 2010 in Leuven (Belgium) and IEEE Central European Student Branch Congress 2011 in Linz (Austria). During the mentioned events students had opportunities to share their technical experience connected with making new international contacts. In 2011 the IEEE Opole Student Branch Chair achieved a title of Regional Laureate in Students Nobel national competition for his lifetime career achievement. In the same year three students from IEEE Opole SB formed a group AnotherDimension and succeeded in an international 24-hour IEEExtreme 5.0 programming competition. They ranked 1st place in Poland and 200th in the World (among over 2000 teams). To sum up, the membership in IEEE Opole Student Branch has a great impact on the students career. Not only does it make possible to expand their knowledge and world view, it also helps to start their professional live. Most of them are already receiving the Opole University of Technology scholarship, the Marshal of the Opole Voivodeship scholarship or a Ministry of Science and Higher Education scholarship. More information is available on the new IEEE Opole SB website: http://sites.ieee.org/sb-opole.
8TH IEEE CONGRESS – MADRID 2012 In August 2012 Piotr Graca, IEEE Opole Student Branch Chairman and Ph.D. student at Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Automatic Control and Informatics undertook yet another trip to promote Opole University of Technology and update his technical and scientific knowledge. Along with about 400 participants from Europe, Middle East and Africa he attended 8th biannual IEEE Region 8 Student Branch and GOLD Congress (SBC 2012). IEEE Congress is dedicated to most active members of IEEE. Its main goal to promote IEEE research and academic work as well as presentation of benefits of being associated in such dynamic organization. It also provide excellent opportunity to establish international contacts and gain the most-recent thematic knowledge during numerous plenary
technological oriented sessions and seminars. During the Congress participants promoted their countries and regions and had a chance to learn about other cultures. During the official award ceremony Piotr Graca received prestigious Larry K. Wilson Regional Student Activities Award for his exceptional service in organizing Third International Students Conference on Electrodynamics and Mechatronics that took place in Opole in October 2011. It is undoubtedly a great success of IEEE Opole Student Branch that shows great engagement in implementation of academic international projects. such recognition certainly gives motivation to work harder in the future. iRO News | 11
CONSORTIUM PROGRES 3
VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava University of Zilina Aleksander Dubcek University of Trecin University of Ostrava Silesian Unvieristy in Opava University of Economy in Katowice
Silesian University of Technology in Katowice University of Silesia in Katowice University of Bielsko-Biała Opole University Opole University of Technology
n October 2011 the international Consortium PROGRES 3, under the leadership of VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava, was established. Eleven partner universities from Czech, Slovakia and Poland signed the consortium memorandum, while Prof. Bohumír Strnadel was chosen as Consortium Chairman. Consortium was set up to foster cross-border scientific cooperation and facilitate more effective planning, management and realization of joint education and research projects as well as to enhance economic situation of local societies. Thanks to the initiative 172 000 students and 10 000 academics have a chance to work together in much more efficient way. Partner universities aim at improving academic mobility within the frame of various European programmes. The Consortium became an inherent part of the European Grouping for Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) TRITIA.
During the meeting Danuta Jazłowiecka, member of the European Parliament, was ceremonially presented with the official consortium description letter addressed to President Jerzy Buzek. The Consortium Board hopes to get recognition in the structures of the European Commission to simplify funds acquiring process.
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II CONSORTIUM BOARD
MEETING IN OPOLE
The meeting was held on 9th January 2012 at the Opole Confucius Center. Józef Sebesta, Governor of Opole Province, opened the meeting and warmly welcomed participants, pointing out the relevance and importance of well thought-out international academic cooperation. Krystyna Duda, Head of Department for Promotion and Culture, gave our guestsan interesting tour at the current exhibitions of the University Museum.
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The meeting gave opportunity for deeper discussion on joint scientific projects possibilities. Andrzej Siemiaszko, Ph.D. – Director of National Contact Point for Research Programmes of the European Union in Poland presented results of participation of Poland in the 7 Framework Programme as well as opportunities resulting from the forthcoming Horizon 2020 Framework Programme. Yingan Sun, Specialist for Chinese Affairs, gave interesting speech on work, structure and genesis of The Opole Confucius Center, bringing closer profits of cultural, business and educational cooperation Poland-China in the Opole Region. The Board Meeting was combined with the university International Office Representatives Meeting. International specialists talked about prospects of the intensification of academic collaboration in the frame of European and global programmes as well as possibilities of a variety of actions for intensification of student cooperation in the frame of Consortium. Options of joint Intensive Programmes were brought up as well as the organized study visit for better recognition of partner universities.
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LLP ERASMUS AT THE OPOLE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
ERASMUS MOBILITY grows fast
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n the year 2012 Erasmus programme celebrates its 25th anniversary. Since 1987 nearly three million students benefited from studying or practicing abroad. University academic and administrative staff have been taking part in teaching assignments and staff training for the purpose of sharing and gaining knowledge and therefore increasing the quality of education at their home institutions. Poland in among five countries sending the most students abroad. The Opole University of Technology has been participating in the world’s most successful academic exchange programme since the year 2001. As most of the Erasmus Network Members we have started shyly gradually increasing the numbers of outgoing and incoming students and academic staff. Initially more Polish students participated in university exchange. Over years the situation has changed and we currently have higher figures in received undergraduates, remaining satisfying outgoing rate. In the academic year 2011/12 a record breaking number of 163 Erasmus students has been studying in Opole. About 100 domestic students make their journeys abroad each year having the possibility to study at one of our 130 European
partner universities. We receive students and academic staff from Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Finland, Italy, Lithuania, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland and Turkey. We are proud of the continually mounting interest of arrivals which indicates increased international reputation. We have been recently more successful in organizing work placement aboard, providing yearly up to 30 students with opportunity to serve training abroad. We cooperate with numerous European companies and institutions from Austria, Germany, Portugal, Spain and Turkey mainly in the fields of tourism, physiotherapy, logistics and IT. We were ranked 15 among Polish institution of higher education with reference to STA and STT mobility. A splendid amount of nice percentage of academic staff teach and enhance their skills abroad. We are please to publish adventurous Erasmus stories that prove the essence and importance of the whole range of Erasmus mobility.
5TH INTERNATIONAL MEETING 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF LAUNCHING LLP ERASMUS – PAST ACHIEVEMENT AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVE
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ifth edition of International Meeting was held on 24th-28th April 2012. Opole University of Technology hosted teachers and administrative staff from partnering institution across Europe. 21 persons from 17 partnering universities from Spain, Turkey, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Finland and Romania presented their institutions and scientific lectures during 5-day meeting. First day of the event was devoted to welcoming of guests. The meeting was held at International Relations Office on Tuesday afternoon . Day two started with the official meeting in Opole Confucius
Institute. Our guests had a chance to get acquainted with Chinese culture and history of establishing Institute within the facilities of university in 2008 due to long and fruitful collaboration with Beijing University of Technology, China. Later that day, university students were able to attend the presentations of our partnering universities followed by thematic lectures given by our guests in the main hall of the University Conference Centre. Both sessions were filled to the brim gathering under one roof both university teachers and students. Staff from International Offices encouraged our students to take part in the fantastic experience that is provided by the European Programme for mobility called Erasmus. Foreign teachers presented their individual aspects of most common scientific problems as well as various approach to science. On Thursday guests experienced the beauty of Opole during the city tour. We all strolled around old part of town and its most enchanting nooks. We walked along the main city boulevard and Opole Venice, stopped by the city amphitheatre and visited City Cathedral, Franciscan Church and Square of Freedom. Official dinner added splendor the day events and left everyone full after tasting local cuisine. For the first time guests of International Meeting had a chance to participate in trip to Krakow and Auschwitz Museum. The idea of visiting former Polish capital and concentration camps in Auschwitz was enthusiastically adopted by the participants. We would like to thank our guests for visiting our university and at the same time invite those who have not yet attended our event to join the 6th International Meeting in Spring of 2013.
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EVERYTHING STARTS WITH SIMPLE „CZEŚĆ” INTERVIEW WITH CAN BALLI
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an Balli, the Erasmus student from Turkey, shares with us his Erasmus story. He talks about reasons he chose Poland as Erasmus destination, about cultural differences, learning experience, adventures in Opole, and finally why it is great to become an Erasmus student. Firstly, I chose Poland simply because I knew I would have had an amazing time there, but also because it was the least expensive option. Of course I had an idea what Poland and Polish people might be like, but I didn’t expect them to be so warm. In Poland everything is about family and it is absolutely fabulous that everyone is ready to help if you are in need. I admire people in Poland for their strength and confidence. And Polish women … who are not only beautiful but also strong, in my opinion they are always one step ahead polish men, much more open minded than all the men here. There is a saying that ‘men are a head’ but here in Poland women are definitely a neck of this country.
‘amusement’: it doesn’t matter what we are doing if we enjoy it and express amusement. Sometimes we’re having problems but we never give up having fun. It is like all day party for me. On a market, in a bus and of course in clubs:) It is not about having money, good clothes or sth else... We are like children - we don’t need any reason to smile, it’s enough to be an Erasmus student in Poland. At the end I just want to say that I feel exeptionally lucky that I had the chance to become Erasmus student, especially in Opole. There are only a few more things that have to be said. First of all - take a lot of pictures, laugh a lot, forgive freely and love like you’ve never been hurt. Life comes with no guarantees, no time outs, no second chances. Life is short, so love your life, be happy and keep smiling. This not a goodbye story, it’s is not the end, it is just ‘Do zobaczenia’...
Of course, there are aspects of Poland I would like to see changing. I would like to see Polish people to smile more often, appear less strict, and not be guided by principles so much. It’s good to have principles but c’mon life is about breaking rules from time to time. I am guided by a rule in life that everything is possible. I believe that if I want to do something I just do it. I live my life to the fullest, fight for dreams, dance in the pouring rain, and just smile until my face hurts. The question people ask me frequently is what would I exchange between our cultures, and my answer is always one: nothing. I believe that there is a place for everything, everybody has their own role to play in life so what’s the point of exchanging things that work somewhere. But if I had to choose something I would say that I would like to transfer to Turkey the phenomena of zebra crossing and those rules that comes with it. In Turkey it’s not that safe to cross the street. From Turkey I would definitely bring Turkish food over here because I am never full here. The Erasmus Programme has changed my life completely. Somehow it’s showed me how to breathe again, how to smile and laugh like a child without any specific reasons. This program shows me how to be more tolerant. Actually it doesn’t matter where we come from, who we are, what language we speak, in what God we believe. At the end we are all human beings and we are all the same. The Erasmus and Poland verifies my life, shows me what is important and now I finally understand what I expect from my life. My mind is open and I don’t have chains that keep me out of the things in my life. I feel very lucky to be in Poland. I feel lucky I had a chance to meet all those fantastic people. Natalia, Ela, Justyna, three best friends to whom it will be so hard to say goodbye to. But I am not leaving them alone, I have just taken part of them with me and will leave a part of myself with them. It is really hard to describe my Polish experience in three words but if I had to try, I would say; ‘czesc’: I will never imagine that a simple word can help me to find friends who can change my life and my mind. A word ‘pianist’: when I walk, when I travel, when I meet with new people I can always imagine the movie “Pianist”. The last word iRO News | 15
INTERNATIONAL COOKING DAYS
TASTING FLAVORS OF EUROPE
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n academic year 2011/12 twice we had pleasure to invite our international students to the multicultural culinary event that took place in the student super-friendly STREFA Canteen. Professional cooks were assisting students in preparing traditional foods popular in countries they come from. Cooking gathering ended in culinary fiesta as everyone who came might have tried studentmade foodstuffs. As local journalists Anna Grudzka and Mateusz Magdziarz found out, those who visited the canteen had chance to taste such delicacies as
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feijoada a Portuguesa (Portuguese bean and meat soup), tortilla de patatas (Spanish potato pie), patatas a la pobre (spanish-style potatos with onion), salmiakki (anise Finnish candies) or Polish vegetable salad and cheese cake. During cooking hours DJ of local Big Ben Club played music to get everyone ready for the after party. We cannot wait for the beginning of next academic year when we will have opportunity to discover new flavors together with forthcoming international students
INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL GAMES
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ll the 2012 UEFA European Football Championships fuss had an huge effect on us and put our students in mood for sport rivalry. Due to rather unpleasant weather in last autumn we have moved indoors and organized two international futsal games. Erasmus Students Team played twice against Media Team at the Main Sport Hall at the Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy. The first game found the Erasmus Team decimated and completely unprepared to compete with fit and ready local journalist and media specialists. It was quite a surprise for both teams as well as the audience how Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish and Columbian students were easily beaten by polish media professionals 5:1. One can imagine the disappointment and irritation of the students.
The complete failure in the first match resulted in quite opposite attitude during the Santa Clause Day Revenge. We witnessed a different Erasmus Team. They were out for blood and avid for success. They completely destroyed Media Team smashing them 12:0. Third game took place several weeks before the EURO 2012 official opening ceremony in Warsaw. This time the teams played outdoors at Orlik sport field. It was the most stiff of all three games. Inspired by forthcoming Euro tournament all players put the most of their efforts into the match. International squad led by technically skilled Spanish and Portuguese students finally won 6:3. Congratulations to both teams who put on good shows. We cannot wait for next competition.
WELCOMING ERASMUS STUDENTS
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ach semester we are pleased to welcome new incoming students. As number of international students continuously raises, it is a unquestionably a challenge for us to organize orientation week events and therefore guarantee a nice and informative reception of our guests. Although it requires a huge effort it give us great satisfactions and each year we do our best to introduce our guests to brand new life and academic situation. Our students participate to information meeting and participate in many integrations events, including trips to most interesting places in south-west Poland. Thanks to our Mentor Program we aim to provide individual assistance so that our visitors would never feel lost during their stay in Poland. iRO News | 17
ERASMUS ACADEMIC STORIES STUDENT MOBILITY FOR STUDIES A walk along the river – Erasmus in Trier, Germany By Damian Kottisch
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fter a short walk along the river, crossing the bridge, I climb the steep stairs to reach the top of the red hills, where the “Fachhochschule” campus is located. I sit down in front of one of the computers, seeing the panorama of Trier behind my screen, and start to describe what you can expect from the Erasmus program. The enrollment procedure isn’t complicated but can be surprising sometimes. The most important part is definitely to choose the right country, or rather the right university to spend the next semester. It is essential to pay more attention to the language; lack of such skills lock many doors which are could be very helpful in a foreign environment. Having considered my technical interests I picked Germany, as the country makes me think of great engineering opportunities and people obsessively caring about details. After hesitating between Ingolstadt, the home of Audi, and Trier, the oldest city in Germany, I chose Treverensis. Another advantage was the scholarship offered by Land Rheinland-Pfalz and the invaluable help of a Professor who cares about students from Opole. The final deciding factor was my colleague’s input. We’ve spent 5 great months here. You can get to Trier by a bus, by train and the ever more popular plane. I chose the bus because of the amount of baggage I had to take. Since the first moments the city gave me the impression of a very cozy place and the dormitory is located right on river side. Even today, when I’m looking through my large window, seeing the Mosel and the beautiful hills surrounding the valley, I can’t keep from smiling. The oldest city in Germany has a lot to offer, besides the Roman gate (which actually should be white but has darkened from weathering) and Marx’s place of birth. It is worth trying the phenomenal “Aulese” from the local wineries and getting a closer look at the rich architecture of the city. The Roman heritage is a topic for a separate article.
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This was only the beginning of the surprises. Soon after arriving we started to review the subjects we were going to study for the next few months. I was astonished with the commitment and positive attitude of the professors who helped us solve the issues with great enthusiasm. What is more, the students are allowed to consume one of the most familiar local drinks at the university. There are even events organized by the “Fachhochschule” where professors, students and people from the industry enjoy the “German gold” together. Two things became apparent right away. Firstly the booming cooperation between the University and the industry works well for both sides. New computers, engineering software and laboratory equipment make learning much more effective. Secondly the philosophy behind mastering the knowledge is as easy and effective as possible. The electronic system of managing, scheduling, contacting and even evaluating the students is available after giving one password on every online computer. The university thinks also about hungry students and is a fan of public transportation. Cheap lunch in the “Mensa” and free transport around the city and outside it are a blessing. It’s impossible to write about FH Trier without mentioning the “Protron” project, which I was lucky to be part of. The determination and commitment of students designing racing cars was amazing. Perfect performance in homemade composite materials technologies allowed a group of students to win the title of world champions in the Ecomarathon. I was surprised how young constructors share the knowledge gained from years of hard work. The satisfaction of knowing people coming from different environments, religions and customs could not be described in such a short sentence. You can meet students from Japan, Arabic countries and both Americas, not only at the university or in the clubs, but also doing simple things like shopping. It has a great, positive influence on language skills in the German language at the university, local dialect and English, which is present everywhere and a daily routine. Every day you can learn something new about different cultures, during studying, eating or even having a cup of tea. People who love to travel will enjoy even more. Benelux, Germany and France are a stone’s throw away. Trips are often organized by students and do not mean spending lots of money. Travelling with an unknown person by car, having booked the trip on the internet, is common in Germany but a rare occurrence in Poland. Lots of German students travel this way, so it’s not hard to find a partner for a good conversation and learn some language on the way. Experiencing new situations, foreign languages or changing our day to day habits brings lots of challenges and isn’t easy at all. Sometimes it’s just a test of strong will or a hard job but the satisfaction and invaluable experience will stay for life time, not to mention the priceless, international friendships which will be appreciated even after a decade.
Erasmus time in Porto and Maia By Ewelina Steinert, Wioleta Towara and Leszek Strąk, students of tourism
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t was the best time we have ever had! We didn’t expect that we can in such a pleasant way, of course studying, get to know a foreign culture. Portugal, namely Porto inspired us every day. You can’t be bored there! We fell in love with Ribeira. You can admire there a panorama of Porto and an amazing view to the Douro river. According to us it’s one of the most beautiful places in the city. Anywhere you can meet a man who is eager to help. We have never met with such friendly people who are able to devote their free time to help another person in need! Portuguese culture is specific, you can see everywhere azulejos, the rooster of Barcelos and listen to fado music. Apart from that Porto gives a lot of possibilities to spend your time with friends. There are a lot of clubs and bars. Every night you can go out and have fun! Besides, for those interested, Porto has a great base to fly to various locations in Spain or other interesting places for quite a reasonable price. It allowed us to make travels to different places, not only the Iberian Peninsula. It was life’s adventure which is worth recommending to anyone interested!
teachers were very friendly and very helpful while courses were very interesting also. I thought that one semester would last very long but Erasmus time has passed faster than I thought. So let’s remember to use each day spent on the Erasmus program - because usually what is beautiful comes and end fast. I was weeping like a little child when i was saying goodbye to my friends. I could not believe that was the end, Though now I know it really is just the beginning of a great adventure. Beginning of interesting travels and visiting my friends from all over the world. I know that I also did not manage to pass information what I really feel. So please, do not wait any longer - join the people whose live was changed by Erasmus and left behind memories that will forever remain in their hearts.
Erasmus in Almeria, Spain By Mirosław Stefanowski , student of tourism
M Erasmus in Olomouc, Czech Republic By Maciej Habdas, student of physiotherapy
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y experience with Erasmus began with the end of September. After landing in Spain welcomed us hot sun. When we arrived at Almería, along with my new roommates, we received the keys to the apartment that we rented. Then we began to explore the place where we had spend the next few months. Almeria is a small and peaceful seaside town, surrounded by mountains. Above the town stands the Alcazaba, which can be visited. Almería residents are friendly and helpful, but not many speak English, what is the motivation to learn Spanish. Social life takes place primarily among the seaside tapas bars and cafes and the city center. Favorite place for students who want to party till the morning is the district of Quatro Calles. Among the clubs, discos and pubs, has something for everyone. The town still lacks a major cultural events. Visitors looking for outdoor activities will be happy to stay in Almería because the
y friends told me about Erasmus Programme. Their experiences and stories while they were on exchange were incredible, I could not really believed them. Erasmus life looked like a story. At he same time I have seen in their eyes that they could not tell me everything what they were feeling because it was so unusual. For them, it was hard to find the right words. I was thinking that I need to experience it myself. And I decided - I said to myself: I’m going! And I found myself among over a hundred people from all over the world! I was surprised how quickly we all became friends with each other. Common trips, parties, dinners and leisure time. I never thought that foreign people can be so close to each other after such a short time. I began to understand what my friends wanted to tell me. Cannot describe all the history that took place - one thing is certain – everything what happened was very funny. But Erasmus is not just a party, is also a school. Here also a pleasant surprise - all the iRO News | 19
town has good sports facilities. Almería weather allows for swimming in the sea by the end of October, and the rainfall is very rare. In Almería has no dormitories or student residences, but there is a large selection of apartments for rent. Room price depending on the standard and location of the apartments varies between 100 - 250 euro / month plus fees. Students can find lots of advertisements in the brokerage offices, on social networking sites and rely on help of employees Universidad de Almería. The University is a 25 minute bus ride from the city center. University Campus covers a large area, but the signs, maps and indicators can help find the right way. The University has a swimming pool, gyms, sports halls, tennis courts and playing fields that facilitate different
forms of sport, so each student can find something suitable to his preferences. Well equipped canteen and bars to help satisfy hunger, and free WIFI access throughout the school enables contact with the world. At the Universidad de Almería students can find the office of the organization ESN - Erasmus Student Network. They organize events of integration of Erasmus students from around the world. Many common tour is an unforgettable experience and expertise in knowing the world. I recommend to all students who want to learn about other cultures and customs. Time I spent in Almería was a great and unforgettable experience.
STUDENT MOBILITY FOR PLACEMENT Practicing physiotherapy in Spa Vitanova, Tenerife, Spain By Aleksandra Bieszaj and Elżbieta Kalinowska, student of phyisiotherapy
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e spent three months on doing practical training in Tenerife - the largest and most densely inhabited island of the seven Canary Islands and also the most populated island of Spain. We were working as physiotherapists in Spa Vitanova by Hotel Gran Tacande that belongs to Dream Place Hotels network. We were accommodated in hotel Noelia Sur, half an hour way to Spa Vitanova – our place of work. In the place where we were sleeping accommodated more trainees. We lived ina small but nice room with an Italian girl, who worked at the reception desk at Spa Vitanova. In both of hotels we could eat meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) in the canteen. We were working in SPA five day a week and we had two days off. In our free time we were sunbathing on a beach and swam in the ocean. We worked eight hour per day but we had a half an hour break - time to eat something or relax. The SPA staff and our boss were always very nice to us and helpful. This atmosphere helped us to adapt to new working environment and completely new situation in general. Our duties included several treatments, for example: sport massage, slim and detox massage, therapeutic, relaxation massage, facial treatment, reflexology and treatments of special problems with painful injury. Our appointments with patients lasted fifteen minutes or half an hour. A lot of tourists from different countries visit Tenerife and use Spa Vitanova so we were able to practice our language skills. What is more – even the hotel manager guaranteed us basic Spanish lessons with a fantastic teacher, what helped us to communicate with our
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clients. Besides work we spent a lot of time with new friends from Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Spain, and travelled around visiting most interesting places in Tenerife. We think that practical training abroad is a great thing to do for young people eager to visit and experience life in a foreign country. It gave us an amazing professional experience in our and left incredible memories.
The best practice in the world at Hotel Infante de Sagres! By Bożena Cholewa and Sabina Adamczyk, students of tourism
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ur adventure with practice in Porto was began on 1st of July 2011 and lasted 3 months. We worked at 5-star Hotel Infante de Sagres, located in centre of the city and therefore very popular among tourists. Porto is the city of magic, where the time is stop and you have a moment of pleasure in your life. Every day Hotel was full of guests so we had possibility to learn and practice complex lodge service. We got to know methods of work with reservation system (SIHOT, check in, check out). We worked two months at the reception desk and one month at the management and promotion office. We had a chance to get acquainted with hotel documentation (various contracts and business agreements, invoices, order forms or sales drive). Hotels direction and management staff taught us how to manage the company. Part of the training at promotion office was the most interesting where we had opportunity to take part of organizing process a big events ex.: weddings, special birthday parties, baptism etc. A
At first we were little confused as our Portuguese was rather limited and we had some problems to with communication. It is not easy to express our feelings but in general we had really a great time. Hotel staff was truly fantastic and everyone offered us help and assistance when needed. We can thoroughly recommend work placement at Hotel Infante de Sagres to anyone who would like to have fine experience in an amazing city of Porto.
Work placement at Hotel Gran Canaria Princess, Spain By Edyta Kordula, student of tourism
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hen I look back one year, it only brings me back a good memories related to my training which I had a chance to take thanks to my coordinator. The 4-star hotel treated me like an all-inclusive guest during my whole 3-month stay. My room was on the first floor so it took me only one minute to get to work. After my working hours I ate in the restaurant. I could also have all the snacks from the bar and free entry to evening shows and so on. The most fantastic thing was that the ocean was just a stone’s throw from the hotel so I was spending my free time on the beach. I had the opportunity to improve my language skills. I used English language with the customers mostly, it was completely sufficient. With my colleagues I could develop my Spanish. The atmosphere at my work place was really nice. The hotel staff familiarized me with my training place. They were patient with explaining me everything step by step. Their guidance and interest in my training was extremely beneficial to me and made my training an illuminating experience. I had to handle with demanding guests or deal with difficult situations sometimes, but I was never left on my own. My co-workers were extremely helpful. My boss was just amazing and i could never feel that he was on a higher position, always understanding. When my family and friends came to visit me he tried to arrange my schedule for my best. I have made a lot of friends. I am still in touch with those people. I feel like I have got a second home in Gran Canaria. I spent such a wonderful time on the island. I have learnt so many things and gained new experience working in a big hotel. It was really worthy going there. For those who has any doubts…do not hesitate! You will not regret it. I can truly recommend this hotel.
ATIVE Lda, Faro, Portugal
number of hours was between 10-12 hours. Most of my time I spent in the car because we had to reach to each client at the cost of whole of Algarve. During that period I enriched my skills in psychology of human behaviour and improved my Portuguese language. The two months was very tiring but last 4 weeks of my training I had to prepare a project for my headmaster so thanks that I could spend more time with other Erasmus students from all around of world. I met Mexicans, Spanish, Greeks, Turks, Iranians, Russians and more others. Unfortunately with the Erasmus grant I received I couldn’t cover all cost of living in Portugal and due to the crisis the company could simply not offer me any salary. Nevertheless the Erasmus training gave me great opportunity to develop myself in general. Besides increasing language skills I had a chance to check myself in various sometimes difficult situations. All this provided me with useful experience and I definitely gained self-confidence. What is more, I made great friendships with other Erasmus trainees and students.
Viva Köln! –practical training at Travel Trex By Maria Gładki, student of management
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echs Monate lang habe ich das TravelTrex-Team in der polnischen Abteilung in Köln verstärkt. Wir waren insgesamt 11 Praktikanten aus verschieden Ländern und Kontinenten, die die entsprechenden Länderabteilungen vertreten haben. Den ersten Monat verbrachten wir im Schulungsraum wo die Festanagestellen uns mit dem Workflow des Unternehmens vertraut gemacht haben. Schon von Anfang an hatte man uns sehr viel Verantwortung übertragen, wir mussten lernen selbständig schnelle und gute Entscheidungen zu treffen. Täglich wurden uns neue Aufgaben zugeteilt was uns Einblicke in verschiede Bereiche ermöglichte. Die Aufgaben die mir zugeteilt wurden fande ich sehr interessant, besonders Aufgaben aus dem Bereich Marketing machten mir großen Spaß. Einmal pro Monat trafen sich fast alle 100 Mitarbeiter auf einem sogenannten Come-togehter wo man entspannt mit den Kollegen und einem Glass Kölsch den Tag ausklingen lassen konnte. Das Praktikum war für mich eine sehr gute Erfahrung. Ein Einblick in die Funktionsweise eines internationalen Unternehmens zu bekommen, war für mir genau das, was ich mir von dem Praktikum erhofft habe. Ich konnte mich persönlich und fachlich deutlich weiterentwickeln. Diese Erfahrung kann ich jedem empfehlen.
By Justyna Sojka, student of production engineering
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uring 2011 summer I had a chance to complete three months student practice training in Portugal at ATIVE Lda Delegação located in Faro. My day work was very long, the average
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ERASMUS STAFF MOBILITY VisitingİstanbulTeknikÜniversitesiundertheErasmusSTA By Dr Łukasz Dzierżanowski and Dr Michał Tomaszewski,
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fter visiting Barcelona and Lisbon in previous years, Istanbul has been our third destination on our annual Erasmus STA route. Our main concept was to find a place as little European as possible (which is quite interesting goal considering the Turkish people of Istanbul struggle to become members of the western community). To us it was a bull’s-eye hit – the ancient Byzantium, later Constantinople, and more recent Ottoman and Turkish metropolis appeared more impressive and intriguing than we have ever imagined. Our main task was to visit the İstanbul Teknik Üniversitesi and perform our lectures. Having 238 year of history, the university made a very respectable impression. Located in the european part of the city, just a stone’s throw from Bosphorus, the faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering is placed in the main campus of Maslak, along with most of the faculties, the University Rectorate, swimming pool, stadium, student residence halls and the central library. We had the privilege to meet the staff, and during a tasteful lunch discuss our professional and touristic matters. Staying in for whole 8 days we had the great opportunity to see much more than the obligatory wonderful places like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, etc. Thanks to the Erasmus students, we had the chance to meet at our home university, we have had a long list of spots and local specials we were obliged to discover. We have seen the Anadolu Kavağı, an medieval castle guarding the mouth to Bosphorus, made a trip to Şile, a Turkish holiday city on the souther coast of the Black Sea, naturally been to Polonezköy – a polish village founded by Adam Czartoryski in 1842. And we ate and drink all the delicious things Istanbul has to offer. One of them was a unique drink – called boza - a fermented beverage made of maize, sugar, water and cinnamon powder put on it while serving. Being refreshing and nutritious this very special Turkish potion is offered in very selective
district of the city, Vefa, where mostly aristocratic families, and members close to the Sultan’s Palace once have had their private houses and residences. A splendid week in Istanbul it was. I hope our next station for this year – Bucharest – will be as much interesting and enjoyable.
Visiting Vilnius Gediminas Technical University By Joanna Drozd, MA
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was kindly invited to present educational capabilities of Opole University of Technology as part of events marking 2nd International Non-Teaching Week at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VGTU) in Lithuania. This visit would also be a good opportunity to contribute to having a new bilateral agreement for teacher and student exchange signed under Life-long Learning Programme/Erasmus, so I readily accepted. I arrived in Vilnius in the early afternoon on May 8 and headed straight to the bus stand towards my budget accommodation on campus. The main VGTU campus is located in a quiet forested area in vicinity of central university buildings. After I had my ID examined by a hostel receptionist, to my surprise - I received a warm greet in Polish! Only later on, I have discovered that there is a big community of Poles in Lithuania and Polish is widely spoken there! The first day of International Week, May 9 started at VGTU City Centre Campus in a historic building of Faculty of Architecture from a short introduction of the international participants – I counted over thirty persons plus a team of committed and enthusiastic International Office staff. I learned that in Lithuania, VGTU is ranked second overall among universities, according to the preference of graduating high school seniors with excellent marks. It also ranks third in the national University Ranking system. There are currently over 14 000 students enrolled. The University offers 87 study programmes and consists of 8 faculties, 2 institutes, 59 departments and 3 study centers. There are over 500 outgoing VGTU students and over 300 incoming international students through the framework of 260 bilateral agreements. Once the formal part was over, we were transferred to Aviation Institute – a small, elite unit training pilots and aviation specialists. In the evening we were treated to a traditional Lithuanian cuisine in Berneliu Restaurant. The delicacies included smoked eel, white curd cheese served with honey and Skilandis and a tasty smoked meat, all of that accompanied by song performance of skilled musicians. On the second day, May 10 we stayed on Sauletekis Campus and participated in another set of presentations and inspiring discussions on international mobility and cooperation. After a nice lunch, walked to the Sunrise Valley, Science and Technology Park operating as business incubator. Later that afternoon we were taken on a guided tour of a vibrant and lively city of Vilnius. The knowledge of the city was checked during the evening Pub Quiz at Misterija Place where we continued our talks in a relaxed
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atmosphere, cracked jokes and dined. The next two days, May 11 and 12 were intended for meetings of interest depending on the participants’ choice. I held meetings with professors at the Faculty of Mechanics, some of whom I had known (but never met in person) by co-operation in the project entitled “Upgrading the competence of academic staff in the interdisciplinary teaching of mechatronics for the advanced technology needs - UPTRONIC” within EU-supported Leonardo da Vinci Programme carried out at Department of Mechanics and Machine Design of OUTech. The last day of the annual meeting, Friday, May 13 was planned for a day-long trip to a major tourist attraction in the region - Trakai Island Castle. The picturesque XV century castle is a part of historic city and lake resort in Lithuania and lies only 28 km west of Vilnius. Despite a showery and windy weather, the international week attendees appeared in the full force aboard the bus. The trip was terrific and provided a chance to see a truly beautiful spot outside the capital city. The International Week ended with warm goodbyes and promises of reciprocal visits at OUTech in 2013. I can say that my first visit to Vilnius Gediminas Technical University will remain special to me for the care, warmth, friendship and hospitality I received there. If you have never been to Lithuania, I would gladly encourage you to do so! Visit to Mainz and University of Appield Sciences Mainz in German Rhineland – Palatinate By Dr Monika Adamska
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s a representative of the Faculty of Civil Engineering I visited University of Applied Sciences Mainz (Fachhochschule Mainz) in the frame of STA Erasmus Programme from 9th till 13th of May 2011 as a participant of the International Week organized by our partner German university. Mainz, the state capital of Rhineland-Palatinate with a population of 200.000, is located on the west bank of the river Rhine. The city can easily be reached from Frankfurt International Airport within half an hour. Mainz has an impressive history lasting more than 2000 years, as it was founded by Romans in 1st century BC. There are remains of Roman aqueduct, town gate and theatre preserved showing this oldest period of Mainz’ development. The symbol of medieval Mainz is monumental Romanesque Cathedral of St Martin, which towers create a part of city’s skyline. There were first European books manufactured here by Johann Gutenberg in 15th century. Contemporary Mainz is an academic centre with more than 40 thousands students and one of the main centers of German wine economy. University of Applied Sciences Mainz was founded in 1971 and is presently divided into 3 faculties: School of Technology, School of Design and School of Business. I made the most of my time at the School of Technology and their 2 Departments: Architecture and Civil Engineering, which are located at Holzstrasse Campus, near the river Rhine. There is also a new campus located on the outskirts of the city housing School of Business and halls of residence. The International Week organized by Fachhochschule Mainz was a true international event. There were 37 participants coming from 16 different countries and 22 partner universities from Greece, Finland,
France, Italy, Israel, Holland, Poland, Spain, Turkey, the UK and overseas South Korea and USA. Polish representation comprises of 6 participants coming from 3 different universities was the biggest one. The event was organized in a very professional way from the first announcements to farewell meeting. A personal schedule was prepared for every participant and sent individually before the event. We were also given help with the accommodation, public transport in Mainz and the location of university’s buildings. While I arrived, there was also a package of information awaiting at the hotel. On the first day of the International Week we were welcomed by IRO staff, introduced ourselves and became acquainted with the structure of the university. There were also common tours of the old and new campuses. Our lectures were attributed to proper schools and departments. My lectures provided concerned European history of architecture and urban planning and they made a part of regular courses conducted by Professor Regina Stephan for Department of Architecture. Apart from teaching all of us took part in a workshop “Social responsibility – how universities can help in underdeveloped countries” and the evening presentation of students films within the project “Jerusalem – Mainz –Walencia”. We had also a chance to visit Gutenberg Museum with a printing workshop and“Kupferberg”sparkling wine cellars. There was an excellent guided tour of the city of Mainz organized what for me, an architect, was of a special interest. The hosts proposed us also a company visit to Juwi Holding AG - the world known company dealing with renewable energy. We had a chance to listen to a presentation on the presence and the future of renewable energy and to visit the wind and solar farms, which was really a unique opportunity. I have to mention, that there were also Dr Aleksandra Zygmunt and Dr Justyna Zygmunt participating in the International Week both representing the Faculty of Economics and Management – and all three of us tried to be the best ambassadors of our home institution – Opole University of Technology. Four, very active days of the International Week filled passed quickly, but my positive impressions of visiting Mainz and the University of Applied Sciences Mainz will stay in my mind for ever.
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FOREGINE STUDENTS
WE ALL APPRECIATE THE FACT THAT WE ARE HERE INTERVIEW WITH JULIETTA SIUI AND DMITRO IZVARIN
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n the face of demographic low It seemed as pure necessity to launch promo campaign abroad, start cooperation with recruitment associations and finally enroll foreign nationals. Thanks to the efforts, eighteen students from Ukraine, Belarus, Latvia and US began to study in Polish at our University in the academic year 2011/12. The numbers are not mind-blowing however, it was a weighty step forward and we hope that before long we will significantly increase the figures. We no longer built our international reputation on Erasmus students but now also recruit candidates who study at OUTech full time. This year most of our international students are Ukrainian citizens. We talked to Ms. Julietta Siui and Mr. Dmitro Izvarin a first year bachelor students about their time in Poland. It has already been a few months since you began to study at our University. How do you feel about your decision of coming over to Opole? Dmitro Izvarin: Since that time I can say that I’m very happy of having an opportunity to live and study here. For me it’s a new and exciting experience. Moreover, it’s another level of studying. I mention this fact because I’m aware of educational system in Ukraine (I’ve already graduated from state university)
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and it notably differs from European educational system. Not completely, but differs. Julietta Siui: Well, I`m glad that I came to Opole because for me it was much easier to adopt in Poland. I think that if I came to a bigger city it would be more difficult in everything. Now I understand that coming to Opole is a very good start for my future and for my development. I was thinking a lot where I want to study, where I have an opportunity to express myself, to show my abilities. And I was happy to know that I would be able to study in Opole University of Technology. And every day I make sure that I made the right decision. Both of you speak great Polish but do you find it difficult to study in foreign language? D.I.: Firstly, I can’t say that studying in foreign language is difficult. Yes, it’s unusual. And sometimes I don’t know certain specific words or expressions, but I’m here for studying, right? As well for studying foreign language and specific vocabulary. Honestly, it was not easy at the beginning: but step by step in the process of communication, studying and writing, be sure
that you’re will get used to it. The main thing is to keep in touch with native speakers. That’s why, while listening to professor’s lectures I’m not only studying some topics of a subject but I’m studying to master Polish as well. To my mind, Polish language is not so complicated to learn because I know Ukrainian and there are a lot in common between these languages. J.S.: At first, when we came, it was really difficult to understand anything in classes because although I was learning Polish in Kiev it`s evident that here everything is different. Then, in a month, I adopted and everything was clear for me. Of course, now, sometimes I have problems with language but in general is not difficult to study in Polish, considering that fact that now I wouldn`t call Polish as foreign language for myself. Did you have a chance to visit the city before or was It a first time you saw it in late September? D.I.: I have never visited Opole before and I was scared a little bit at the beginning. Neither about the city, nor about people, but about myself in this city and my studying. In fact, I have never been so far from my home, so far from my family. But when I saw the city, when I walked along the streets and beautiful parks, I relieved my mind. From that time I like Opole as my studying place and I have a good time at weekends. I can’t even imagine that this small city could be so beautiful and homelike, so attractive and resilient. You know, Opole is much smaller than Kyiv. In Kyiv we have more than 4 million people but Opole has nearly 125 thousands (I read this number in Wikipedia). And now when I come to Kyiv on holidays I feel a little discomfort about overwhelming crowds of people, simply because I got used to a little city like Opole. J.S.: I saw Opole at first time when I came in late September but my mum had visited it before to see the city, my future university. I couldn`t come because of studying at lyceum in Kiev. Of course, I was searching a lot of information about Opole on the Internet. I read many articles about its Festival of Polish Song. So, I was prepared for coming here. Also, I liked photos of Opole which I found on the Internet. So, I didn`t have any doubts, that coming here would be a right decision for me. You must have had some expectations before coming to Opole. What is different from what you’ve anticipated? D.I.: First of all, I will say some words about lifestyle. It varies from a big city ‘Kyiv-like style. For example, manner of driving. Opole residents have an exclusively accurate driving style without aggression, constant haste and narrow curves. Now I want to pass my driving test in Poland to become a diligent driver like you are. Secondly, I was surprised by the bus schedule. The schedule which works! It’s very important. In Kyiv we have many kinds of public transport (buses, trolley buses, trams, subway, minibus taxies etc.), but we have no opportunity to plan our trip from point A to point B, because there is no schedule on bus stops, ant it is not available through the internet (like you have mzkopole.pl). Of course, in Kyiv when you leave home and go to your working place at the same time everyday, you will arrive in ±10 minutes and you know approximately the time of your trip in this way. But there is no guarantee. You can arrive 20, 30 minutes later than you expected. The other thing I want to mention is that you
have completely different access to health care system. I take in consideration medical insurance. In Ukraine it’s not important to have an insurance, you just call to the health center and go there at fixed date. Mostly, medical attendance is free and all you need is to buy medicines. But if you have more complicated situations, you will have to pay for medical attendance, analysis, treatment, for everything, – directly from your pocket. And the last thing, it’s not easy to study and to become an engineer, however, it’s not that difficult. I think there is nothing impossible in academic program and if you really want and you’re ready to work, you’ll get what you aim at. J.S.: Nothing at all is different from my expectations before coming to Opole. I knew where I was coming, I understood that it`s smaller than my home city. I didn`t think a lot about what it would be like, I just was looking forward for coming here and see everything by myself. What about studying, I expected that being at university of technology would be the best for me. So it is. I didn`t know the system of studying at all so I couldn`t even imagine how it would be. The one thing I didn`t expect is that I couldn`t imagine that it would be so easy to communicate with people. During this short time I became sure that I would get help if I needed it, maybe that`s why it`s easy for me to stay here far from my home. Do your Ukrainian colleagues share your opinions on studying in Poland in general? D.I.: If we talk about my Ukrainian friends in Poland – of course, they do. If we consider my friends in Ukraine, I want to thank them for support. They always encourage me and wish me good luck. Furthermore, some of them have already asked me about possibilities to study at Opole University of Technology and in Poland in general. In addition, we always stay in touch via Internet and when I come for holidays, we spend a good time chatting about their news, my actualities and studying in Poland, of course. J.S.: Yes, we talk a lot about process of studying. Everyone has a different opinion about everything but in general they all are glad that they had an opportunity to come here. Studying is very interesting for everyone and we are trying to do our best. Of course, it`s not easy sometimes but in general we all appreciate that fact that we are here, that we study in Opole University of Technology. Maybe it is too soon to ask but have you already thought about your post-graduation future. Do you think you will stay in Poland? D.I.: Yes, it’s too early to ask about it. But I personally feel that I would like to stay. Perhaps, it could be Poland or another country – that remains to be seen. But, firstly, I need to complete my current studies. J.S.: Yes, you are right that it`s too soon. I don`t like guessing my future plans. I think that time will show. Everything depends on opportunity to get a good job after graduation. I like Poland and I don`t mind to stay here. But everything can change, so we will see.
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INTERNATONAL CONFERENCES
2ND CONFERENCE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
IN OPOLSKIE REGION AND WHAT NEXT?
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ach year our universities and colleges welcome more and more students from other countries who decide to spend one or two semesters in Poland in frame of LLP-Erasmus or choose our institutions to study bachelor or master programs. By reason of rising number of foreign students who study at local universities and institutions of higher education as well as regarding the potential of international students for regional economic development Opole University of Technology in cooperation with Governor’s Office and Opole Municipal Office organized second edition of international conference dedicated to students from abroad. The conference took place in Main Conference Hall of Regional Parliament in 8th March 2012.
This year the students had chance to get familiar with business, culture and tourism offer of Opolskie Region as well as possibilities of doing work placement or volunteer work at one of local institutions. Participants learnt ways to use their free time to make the most of their stay in Poland. Arkadiusz Wiśniewski, City Vice President and Józef Sebesta, Governor of Opolskie Region, encouraged students to explore and experience the region. At same time they admitted that students’ opinion about the city and province is of great importance for local authorities and they will continue to do their best to support universities in making educational offer more and more attractive. Magdalena Błońska of City Department for Promotion and Education presented Opole as a the city without limits and foreigner-friendly place. She also prepared an entertaining prize quiz so that the students could test their knowledge about the city. Ewa Jakuczek of Regional Promotion Department and previous scholarship holder of Chinese Government Scholarship Programme presented career possibilities opened up by international exchange initiatives. Maciej Gruszecki and Damian Kolarczyk Academic Careers Office of the Opole University of Technology were there to present local business-academic cooperation together with possibilities of acquiring information about work placement offer. We express our hope that the conference motivated students to be more active during their stay in Poland and use to their advantage possibilities of traveling around, studying, improving abilities and starting up their careers here, in Opolskie Region.
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IEEE 3RD INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS CONFERENCE ON ELECTRODYNAMICS AND MECHATRONICS – SCE’2011
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OPOLE, 6-8 OCTOBER 2011
ince 2007 and every two years, IEEE Opole Student Branch has been co-organizing the International Students Conference on Electrodynamics and Mechatronics (SCE). The goal of the conference is to present the latest research and results of young scientists (students, PhD students, and young postdoc scientist) related to electrodynamics and mechatronics topics. The SCE gives all participants a chance to share technical experience and a possibility to make some new international contacts. On 6 – 8 October 2011, the IEEE Opole Student Branch together with IEEE Poland Section and Poland Section MAG Chapter assisted by Student Research Group ELEDYN organized at Opole University of Technology the third edition of this conference - III SCE. The conference was held under honorary patronage of Prof. Jerzy Skubis, Rector of Opole University of Technology, Prof. Józef Modelski, IEEE Region 8 Past Director and Eva Lang, IEEE Region 8 SAC Past Chair. The III SCE, connected with IEEE Day 2011 celebrations, brought together about 50 participants from many countries (e.g. Austria, Brazil, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, Ukraine, Poland). International Scientific Committee consisted of 14 members. Opole University of Technology was represented by Prof. Bronisław Tomczuk, Prof. Tomasz Boczar, Prof. Ewald Macha, Andrzej Waindok, Ph.D. Eng, Jan Zimon, Ph.D. Eng.
and included in the IEEE Xplore on-line digital library, as well. From 35 submitted papers, 27 ones have been printed in the book: Electrodynamic and Mechatronic Systems”, edited by B. Tomczuk, A. Waindok, J. Zimon. During the conference all participants were invited to take a part in social events such as Rock’n’Roll Barbecue Party, Regional Gala Dinner and Walking City Tour. In addition, from 9 to 11 October, the conference organizers provided a “Three Day Tour”. During the tour, the participants visited historical places including Krakow Old Town – Kazimierz, Konzentrationslager Auschwitz in Oświęcim, Wieliczka Salt Mine, Benedictine’s monastery in Tyniec, as well as Tyskie Brewery. The excursion gave the participants also an opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes and to enjoy Polish traditional dishes. The conference committee is looking forward to meet the young scientists at the 4th SCE, which will be held in Opole in 2013. Moreover, IEEE Opole Student Branch officers are currently working on to connect the conference with 2nd IEEE Central European Student Branch Congress (CEuSBC 2013). More information will be available soon on the conference website: www.ssne.po.opole.pl, as well as on the IEEE Opole Student Branch website: http://sites.ieee.org/sb-opole .
Members of Organizing Committee were: Prof. Bronisław Tomczuk - Conference Chair, Jan Zimon, Ph.D. Eng. - Conference v-ce Chair, Andrzej Waindok, Ph.D. Eng. - Publication Chair, Wojciech Pluta, Ph.D. Eng. - Publication v-ce Chair, Piotr Graca, M.Sc. Eng. – Secretary/ Treasurer. In the opening SCE 2011 ceremony special guests: Prof. Peter-Klaus Budig from Germany and Prof. Jose Dalvio Ghirello Garcia from Brazil gave interesting speeches focusing on magnetic bearings. The conference consisted of three main subjects: “Materials in Electrical Engineering”, “Electrodynamics”, “Mechatronics”. All accepted and presented papers were published in the conference proceedings iRO News | 27
EURO2012
STUDENT TOTAL FOOTBALL MADNESS We were all football mad during UEFA 2012 European Championships that were held in Poland and Ukraine. Our international students filled pubs, bar, restaurants and changed dorms into real fan zone adding a lot of color to the exceptional atmosphere of the city. Bursting with excitement they travelled around to support their national teams on Euro football stadiums. Wherever
they went they were taking pictures that are now a fantastic keepsake of their once in a life time EURO 2012 experience. Opportunity of participation in events of European football celebration certainly made our international students stay in Poland truly magnificent. Thanks to factual success of EURO 2012 we have more and more genuine ambassadors of Polish culture and hospitality abroad. Let’s relive EURO 2012 moments once again.
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JOINT STUDIES Cooperation with University of Eastern Piedmont, Italy In March 2012, Faculty of Economics and Management has signed an Agreement on Joint Studies with Department of Law, Political, Economic and Social Sciences of University of Eastern Piedmont, Italy. The agreement is a result of earlier cooperation within the frame of Erasmus Programme with the Italian University - one of the leading scientific and educational centre in Italy. The idea was initiated by Prof. Guido Franzinetti while his first visit at Opole University of Technology in May 2011. Prof. Franzinetti along with Dr Monika Haczkowska, Joint Studies Project Coordinator , prepared foundations of the agreement that was fully supported and later
officially approved on our part by Prof. Krzysztof Malik, Vice-Rector for Cooperation and Development. In frame of the Joint Studies Agreement students of both institutions will be able to follow the programme of master studies in the field of European Studies, specialty Management and Conservation of Cultural Heritage. They will have possibility to study one or two semesters at partner university in English and defend their master thesis either in Poland or Italy.
Visiting University of Eastern Piedmont By Teresa Zielińska, University Manager for Media Relations Opole University of Technology has a number of Italian partnering universities. Universita degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogardo” / University of Eastern Piedmont can be for many reasons considered as an unique one. The various departments of the university are located in three beautiful cities: Vercelli, Alessandria and Novara of striking Piedmont region. Novara has population of more than 100 000 inhabitants and countless ancient monuments. The city of Alessandria, which was named after Pope Alexander III, has always been an attractive place to live. Finest Italian families as Visconti, Sforza wanted the own the city and even Napoleon in 1800 included it in the borders of France. Also during the Second World War Alessandria had military importance. Its most famous citizen is Umberto Eco (born in 1932), one of the greatest novelist of our time. University town of Vercelli has about 45 000 inhabitants. It is an important commercial center of this agricultural region, with an extremely valuable preserved monuments of the twelfth and thirteenth century . University rectorate, administration and Faculty of Humanities and Philosophy are located in Vercelli. Faculty of Law and Political Science as well as Faculties of Mathematics, Physics, and Science are situated in Alessandria while faculties Economics, Pharmacy and Medicine with Health sciences are placed in Novara. 30 | iRO News
Universita degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogardo” is ranked among ten leading universities of Italy. University owes its high position to proper realization of the Lisbon Strategy and Bologna Process. The second reason to be proud of is its patron - Amedeo Avogardo. Born in Turin, an Italian physicist, chemist, lawyer, philosopher, is one of the most important scholars over the centuries. He developed atomistic theory of matter. Avogardo’s number is today one of the fundamental physical constants. Amedeo Avogardo spent most of his life in Turin, but in 1809 he became professor of natural philosophy in high school in Vercelli, which combined with its merits in the field of science determined the selection of the patron of the Universita degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale. Opole University of Technology and Universita degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale have been collaborating since 2009. Mainly students of physiotherapy benefit from the mobility exchange in frame of LLP Erasmus. Students appreciate their stay in Italy due to low cost of living, high-quality students services and facilities as well as cultural values of the region. I think the picturesque and culturally attractive region of Piedmont and welcoming high-class University will continue to draw our students’ attention. I also hope that recently launched Joint Study Program will develop mobility flow between both institutions.
University Profile The University today is comprised of six faculties. University provides education in 23 graduate (MA, M.Sc. and BA, B.Sc.) and 5 PhD fields of study. We offer a wide range of postgraduate studies in 28 fields. Our incoming Erasmus students may choose from the list of more than 160 courses taught in English (for more information please visit IRO web page http://www.iro.po.opole.pl/) FACULTY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING • mechanical engineering and machine design • environmental engineering • chemical and process engineering • agriculture and forest technology • power engineering • food processing and human nutrition • mechatronics FACULTY OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING, AUTOMATIC CONTROL AND INFORMATICS • electrical engineering • automatic and robotics • informatics • electronics and telecommunication • mechatronics • safety engineering FACULTY OF CIVIL ENGINEERING • civil engineering • architecture and town-planning FACULTY OF PRODUCTION ENGINEERING AND LOGISTICS • logistics • management and production engineering FACULTY OF ECONOMY AND MANAGEMENT • administration • economy • management • European studies FACULTY OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND PHYSIOTHERAPY • physical education • physiotherapy • tourism and recreation Research conducted at the University transcends the traditional fields of engineering, combining specialized technical sciences with economic, administration, sport and medical sciences. The well-developed international cooperation and diverse profile of our University results in a wide range scientific and research offer in the fields related to: • modern civil, seismic and wind engineering • specialized electronic technologies • advanced computer and telecommunication technologies • usage of renewable energies • innovative methods for management and logistics • vehicles and machines design • analysis of various materials used in industry • enhancement of rehabilitation methods and analysis for professional sport using biomechanics, biochemistry and genetics
Colophon Publisher: Opole University of Technology International Relations Office Editor-in-Chief: Piotr Kokorczak - Head of International Relations Office Editorial Board: Elżbieta Cieślak – University Erasmus Coordinator, Małgorzata Nowicka-Zając, Anna Witelus, Yingnan Sun – Specialist of International Affairs at Opole Confucius Institute, Joanna Boguniewicz-Zabłocka - Head of Office for International Studies Organization and Piotr Kokorczak Photography: Sławoj Dubiel – University Photographer and Piotr Kokorczak. Photo on page 7 (dep. Prof. Skubis) by Mu Zhongcheng of Beijing University of Technology. Photos on pages 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 published by courtesy of university students and academic staff. Special thanks to Cristina Rodriguez Munoz for EURO pictures (pages 28, 29) Photo Processing: Sławoj Dubiel and Piotr Kokorczak Translations and English editing: Małgorzata Nowicka-Zając, Piotr Kokorczak Graphic Concept: Łukasz Michniewicz - Head of University Publishing House and Piotr Kokorczak IRO News is published once a year in order to promote university international activity with focus on Erasmus Programme actions. IRO is edited in cooperation with Department for University Promotion and Culture and with Opole Confucius Institute. The magazine is distributed to partner universities, university students and universality visitors. IRO Publications is financed by European Union.
International Relations Office ul. Mikołajczyka 5, 45-271 Opole, Poland email: piotr.kokorczak@po.opole.pl www.iro.po.opole.pl
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.