European City of Science Katowice 2024 by Uniwersytet Śląski

[INTRODUCTION]

What We Have Done? – Prof. Ryszard Koziołek ➞ 7

1. HOW WERE THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE BUILT? [OBJECTIVES]

A DIFFERENT CITY. A DIFFERENT REGION. A DIFFERENT LIFE. ➞ 10

About the Title ➞ 10

First Outcomes ➞ 10

Recognition and Opportunity ➞ 10

PONTENTIAL AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP ➞ 12

Joint Effort ➞ 12

Stronger Together ➞ 14

Future ➞ 14

Building Resilience ➞ 14

RECIPIENTS' NEEDS ➞ 15

Nothing About Us Without Us ➞ 15

STRATEGY AND PROGRAMME FRAMEWORK ➞ 15

Main Idea – Science as the New Industry of Silesia ➞ 15

Tools – Universities Are the Public Good ➞ 15

Operating Method ➞ 16

What Are the Key Questions We Seek to Answer? ➞ 16

City and Life Prototyping ➞ 16

The Scientific Method Is Binding ➞ 17

Objectives of the City of Science ➞ 18

City of Science Foundations ➞ 18

Thematic Paths ➞ 19

Design Guidelines ➞ 20

Contribution to the Implementation of European Strategies ➞ 20

2. WHY WE ARE BUILDING A CITY OF SCIENCE [REASONS]

City of Science – Prof. Tadeusz Sławek ➞ 22

Science Will Give Us Future – Prof. Katarzyna Mizia-Stec ➞ 22

Life Changes Science – Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek ➞ 23

Science. The New Industry of Silesia – Prof. Ryszard Koziołek ➞ 24

3. WHO IS THE CITY OF SCIENCE FOR? [RECIPIENTS]

Youth Council for the City of Science ➞ 26 Citizens of the City of Science ➞ 27

4. WHERE IS THE CITY OF SCIENCE? [DIMENSIONS]

Heart of the City of Science – Katowice ➞ 31

Academic Cities ➞ 31

Metropolis ➞ 31

Region ➞ 31

Country ➞ 31

Europe and the World ➞ 32

5. HOW IS THE CITY ORGANISED? [MANAGEMENT]

Financing ➞ 34

Organisational Structure ➞ 36

Marketing and Communication ➞ 37

Sponsors and Partners ➞ 45

6. WHAT HAPPENED IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE? [PROGRAMME]

INTRODUCTION: CITY FOR YEARS ➞ 48

I. THE YEAR OF SCIENCE 2024 – PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMMES ➞ 49

50 Weeks in the City of Science ➞ 50

City-Region-Academia ➞ 78

Teachers for Teachers Programme ➞ 80 Youth in the City of Science Programme ➞ 81

Kato Science Corner ➞ 84

EUROPEAN CONTESTS ➞ 85

EUCYS 2024 – European Union Contest for Young Scientists ➞ 85

EU TalentOn Katowice 2024 – European Union Contest for Early-career Researchers ➞ 87

FameLab Poland ➞ 89

Three Minute Thesis® 2024 ➞ 90

STRATEGIC EVENTS ➞ 91

KATOPOLIS – the Opening Spectacle of the European City of Science 2024 ➞ 91

7th Silesian Science Festival KATOWICE – Opening Weekend of ECSK 2024 ➞ 93

Polish Science Day at the European Parliament ➞ 94

We Want the River. Rawa Festival ➞ 94

Inter-university Inauguration of the Academic Years 2023/24 and 2024/25 ➞ 95

Researchers' Night in the European City of Science 2024 ➞ 95

International Congress on Education Quality ➞ 96

8th Silesian Science Festival KATOWICE – Closing Weekend of ECSK ➞ 96

Night in the City of Science ➞ 98

Gala Concert of the City of Science ➞ 98

SPECIAL PROJECTS ➞ 99

Silesian Scientific Trail ➞ 99

Ask a Scientist! ➞ 99

Seeds of Science, ŚFN on Tour & ScienceTruck ➞ 100

Radio of the City of Science ➞ 100

Exhibitions: Urban Art and Kato Blues Faces ➞ 101

Consortium’s Own Projects ➞ 101

PUBLICATIONS ➞ 106

II. RESEARCH EXCELLENCE

INTRODUCTION: SCIENCE CHANGES LIFE – LIFE CHANGES SCIENCE ➞ 106

EuroScience Open Forum ➞ 107

EuroScience Open Forum 2022: Katowice Regional Site ➞ 107

EuroScience Open Forum 2024: Life Changes Science ➞ 108

EU Talent Fair ➞ 109

Science in the City Festival ➞ 110

Citizen Science ➞ 110

Spin Business Accelerator ➞ 111

School of Science Communication ➞ 111

Silesian Scientific Award ➞ 112

Research Excellence Initiative in the City of Science ➞ 113 Future of Science Observatory ➞ 115

Scientific Programme for Silesia ➞ 118

III. GREEN SCIENCE ZONE

INTRODUCTION: ABOUT AN EXTRAORDINARY VALLEY – Prof. Ryszard Koziołek ➞ 121

Timeline of Work on the Green Science Zone Project ➞ 122

City of Science for Rawa and Green Science Zone Project ➞ 124

Strategic Activities and Research Concerning the Rawa River ➞ 124 Events ➞ 125

Discussions ➞ 125

The Katowice Campus of the University of Silesia Is Part of the Green Science Zone –A Space for People, the City and Nature ➞ 127

7. HOW DID WE BENEFIT FROM (CITY OF) SCIENCE? [OUTCOMES]

MOST IMPORTANT DISCUSSIONS ➞ 130 FIGURES OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE ➞ 132 BRILLIANT GUESTS OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE ➞ 134

8. WHAT CITY WILL WE LIVE IN? [FUTURE]

ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE – Łukasz Lamża, PhD ➞ 138 DECLARATION OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE ➞ 142

ATTACHMENT

ATTACHMENT NO. 1:

Organisers of the ECSK 2024 ➞ 145

ATTACHMENT NO. 2:

List of Events in Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024 ➞ 156

ATTACHMENT NO. 3:

List of Locations for Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024 ➞ 174

WHAT WE HAVE DONE?

Months have passed since the completion of the joint project called the European City of Science Katowice 2024, and as time passes, our achievements and their positive effects become more and more visible. If I were to answer today what I consider to be the most important effects of this crazy undertaking – and ones that will last a long time – I would point to three.

First, we have now permanently introduced the topic of academic science into the debate about the future of our region. The slogan: “Science as the New Industry of Silesia" provided a clear answer on what foundation this future should be built.*

Secondly, we have built up basic knowledge about Katowice as an academic city in many European academic environments, whose universities are ready for scientific, educational and organisational cooperation on the largest and most complex projects.

Thirdly, we have created an unprecedented model of cooperation between public universities in Katowice, namely the City of Science Consortium. The application for the title, preparation and implementation of the “50 Weeks” programme have made us proven partners and, in many cases, simply friends. And what is particularly

important, these are relationships at all levels of functioning of our universities.

From academic administration staff to rectors, led by researchers whose scientific passions and commitment became the content of the events of the year of celebrations of the European City of Science Katowice 2024.**

As hard-working and overworked people, we tend to look forward to the next challenge, and thus treat all completed tasks as closed and "ticked off" on our to-do list. The result is not only a diminishing of the importance of the greatest achievements, but also a lack of time for joy, celebration of success, mutual manifestation of a just sense of pride and satisfaction in a work that will not be repeated soon.

That's what this summary is for. Let us have a synthetic view of our achievement – its size and significance, especially for the future of our universities, our academic cities and the entire region.***

Let us see once again what we have done together. May this publication always remind us of what we are capable of and give us the impetus, strength and courage to undertake further, even more ambitious undertakings. Thank you!

on behalf of the ECSK 2024 Organising Team Prof. Ryszard Koziołek

* MORE INFORMATION ON THE WEBSITE ➞ 24

** AN OVERVIEW OF THE CELEBRATION YEAR PROGRAMME IS AVAILABLE ON PAGES ➞ 47–105 *** FIGURES IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE ARE AVAILABLE ON PAGE ➞ 130

How Were the Foundations of

HOW WERE THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE BUILT?

A DIFFERENT REGION. A DIFFERENT LIFE.

ABOUT THE TITLE

The European City of Science is a prestigious distinction awarded since 2004 at the initiative of the European Commission to cities with particular development potential to deepen the changes accompanying the transformation of society towards science. The title brings the opportunity to apply for EU funds to implement initiatives aimed at building relationships between society and science, such as a year-long programme of celebrations, the EuroScience Open Forum conference and European competitions: EUCYS European Union Contest for Young Scientists and EU TalentOn – European Union Contest for early-career researchers.

FIRST OUTCOMES

Katowice is the first city in Central and Eastern Europe with the title of European City of Science. Until now, the title of European City of Science has only been awarded to cities from the so-called old Europe, including ten academic centres with an established reputation, long research tradition and significant financial resources. The Silesian academic community entered the competition for the title from a different position. Therefore, it was necessary to take a closer look at the scientific strengths of Silesia and the Zagłębie region. The specificity of the region is a rapid and profound transformation towards a new, unknown future. It was proposed that education and science be considered the basis for the future success of the city and region. In line with the slogan that science can be a new industry of Silesia, focused on repairing the world we live in. Katowice won the EMNK title by presenting just such a story – so that Silesia would also begin to be associated with intellectual work, inventing new solutions and developing innovations.

In 2024, the European City of Science was replaced by a new European Commission programme called Science Comes to Town. Based on the experience gained from the development of the Cities of Science initiatives, in particular the proposals of Leiden and Katowice, subsequent cities distinguished by the Commission are obliged to develop a year-long programme of celebrations in international partnership (at least 3 cities at the same time).

RECOGNITION AND OPPORTUNITY

Katowice’s inclusion in the group of European Cities of Science is an expression of recognition of the achievements and potential of the Silesian-Zagłębie academic community, and especially of understanding its role in the transformation of the region and improving the quality of life. It is also an opportunity to obtain funds for research and investments, draw attention to the high quality of education offered in Silesia, strengthen international research cooperation and make science and higher education the foundation for the development of academic cities, metropolises and the region.

‘We believe in science not for the sake of science, but because it can give us the answers to the biggest puzzles that we face today.

In 2024 Katowice will be the guiding star for the European research and innovation community. Throughout the next 12 months, the city will host some of Europe’s most important events. (...) The European Commission is proud to be a part of the celebration and to sponsor an event that fosters dialogue and learning.’

Marc Lemaître Director-General for „Research and innovation” (RTD) European Commission

European Cities of Science

Dublin (Ireland) 2012

�� Stockholm (Sweden) 2004

Copenhagen (Denmark) 2014 �� Manchester (United Kingdom 2016

Leiden (The Netherlands) 2022

Toulouse (France) 2018

Munich (Germany) 2006

Trieste (Italy) 2020

Turin (Italy) 2010

Barcelona (Spain) 2008

Katowice (Poland) 2024

JOINT EFFORT

There would be no City of Science without the will to cooperate between the Silesian academic community and the city, metropolis and region. Initial negotiations with the European Commission began in the Academic Consortium in April 2021, after which on 30 September 2021, a resolution of intent was adopted by the Katowice City Council to apply for the title of European Capital of Science in 2024. During mutual study visits, the evaluation committee analysed the scientific and organisational potential in connection with applying for the title, including during the 5th edition of the Silesian Science Festival Katowice. On 22 December 2021, in the presence of the Prime Minister and representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science, the awarding of the title to Katowice for 2024 was announced. In the meantime, in September 2021, seven public universities based in Katowice, as well as the City of Katowice, the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis and the Marshal's Office of the Silesian Voivodeship signed a letter of intent on cooperation for the transformation of the region through science, and the universities established an official strategic partnership called the Academic Consortium - Katowice City of Science.

The Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science was established in 2021 by 7 public universities based in Katowice.

Members:

Start of cooperation between universities and the City of Katowice to organize the Silesian Science Festival

consortium universities

57,118

�� Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice,

�� Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice,

�� Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education,

�� University of Economics in Katowice,

�� Silesian University of Technology,

�� Medical University of Silesia,

PhD students

1,516

�� University of Silesia in Katowice (leader).

Strategic partners:

�� City of Katowice,

�� Metropolis GZM,

11,226

13,584 employes

�� Silesian Voivodeship.

825

research teams

national reaserch projects and grants European research projects and grants graduates

investment projects

educational projects patents students

In 2024, the City of Science universities educated 57,118 students in 701 degree programmes and majors, as well as 1,516 doctoral students. They employed 11,226 academic teachers and academic administration staff. In 2024 alone, 13,584 people graduated from universities belonging to the City of Science Consortium.

During this time, scientists from these universities implemented 231 grants and presented the results of their work in approximately 10,760 publications.

125

151

701 48 725 106

degree programmes and majors reaserch centres

Much of this research has a directly useful dimension and provides solutions to problems faced by inhabitants of the region. The consortium universities systematically provide legal protection for the results of research work. In 2024 alone, over 150 industrial property rights were granted to them, mainly patents for inventions and protection rights for utility models.

10,760

scientific publications

Joint crisis management in response to the COVID-19 pandemic – Silesian universities played a leading role in the national academic task force.

Launch of the Metropolis of Science programme to provide financial and organisational support to universities.

Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice: Prof. Jarosław Mamczarski

Prof. Władysław Szymański

University of Economics in Katowice: Prof. Eng. Celina Olszak

City of Katowice: Marcin Krupa, PhD

Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice: Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek

Silesian University of Technology:

Prof. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk

Metropolis GZM: Kazimierz Karolczak

Prof. Eng. Arkadiusz Mężyk

Wojciech Saługa

Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education:

Prof. Andrzej Małecki, MD, PhD

Medical University of Silesia: Prof. Tomasz Szczepański, MD, PhD

Silesian Voivodeship: Jakub Chełstowski

Prof. Grzegorz Juras

University of Silesia in Katowice: Prof. Ryszard Koziołek

Strategic investments in academic infrastructure supported by the Silesian Voivodeship.

Establishment of the Inter-University Academic Year Opening Ceremony in Katowice;

Coordinated initiatives to support Ukraine; Launch of the Rawa Lab and prototyping of the Green Science Zone

Analysis of the Consortium's shared potential; Assessment of the public needs concerning the City of Science.

Launch of the Scientific Programme for Silesia.

The Year of the European City of Science 2024 celebrations

STRONGER TOGETHER

Silesian public universities based in Katowice, acting together, have research and development potential that exceeds the largest universities in the country. This awareness – objective and defined by indicators – results from one of the boldest projects carried out in 2022-2023, as part of preparation for the role of the City of Science. Seven universities decided to share data and develop joint development pathways by analysing the potential for consolidation (Project No. MEiN/2022/DIR/1761, co-funded by the Operational Programme Knowledge Education Development from the European Social Fund). The analyses indicate, among other things, that the consolidated Silesian universities have a publication output comparable to that of the University of Warsaw, the Jagiellonian University, or the Daniel Fahrenheit Union of Universities in Gdańsk. The consortium offers students at least seven times more than each university could individually.

FUTURE

The awareness of the power of unity is not new within the Consortium – the universities offer complementary study programmes, cooperate in research, and respect each other’s individuality while remaining autonomous in their operations. However, the largest projects and responses to new social and environmental challenges are now being planned jointly, and the most appropriate form of cooperation that enables full utilisation of the potential of the Silesian academic community is gradual functional consolidation. Its key areas will include: scientific research, education, international exchange, science communication and the popularisation of knowledge, publishing, document archiving, scientific information systems, accommodation services, public procurement, cybersecurity, and academic legislation.

BUILDING RESILIENCE

By working together with local authorities, the universities are capable of addressing the most significant and complex civilisational challenges and equipping residents with tools to build resilience in the face of crises. These include health protection, energy, technology and social transformation in the post-heavy industry age, climate change, digitisation and cybersecurity, depopulation and improvement of general education. In Silesia, in recent years, science and education have benefited from the most critical success factor in any domain – effective dialogue, alignment of objectives, a shared strategy, and the recognition that science and education are genuine priorities for academic cities, the metropolis, and the region.

Start of cooperation between universities and the City of Katowice to organize the Silesian Science Festival

57,118

825

725

1,516

11,226

701

10,760

consortium universities investment projects educational projects patents students scientific publications research teams degree programmes and majors reaserch centres PhD students

106

13,584 employes national reaserch projects and grants European research projects and grants graduates

125

151

Joint crisis management in response to the COVID-19 pandemic – Silesian universities played a leading role in the national academic task force. 2016 2019 2020

* As of 2024

Mode of Operation in the City of Science European City of Science Katowice 2024

Launch of the Metropolis of Science programme to provide financial and organisational support to universities.

RECIPIENTS' NEEDS

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US

In 2022, commissioned by the City of Katowice, the universities of the Consortium conducted a diagnosis of residents’ expectations regarding science and education in relation to the Year of Science 2024. Nearly 2,000 Katowice residents participated in the study, and the analysis results formed the basis for the celebration programme. Numerous recommendations made by the universities based on interviews and surveys with residents will serve as guidelines for the continued development of the City of Katowice’s strategy.

Scope of the diagnosis and recommendations in relation to the EMNK 2024 programme framework:

�� Music for the City – Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

�� Mapping locations with creative potential in the urban space of Katowice Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

�� Residents’ expectations in the field of physical culture, sport and recreation Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

�� Diagnosis of residents’ expectations regarding the popularisation of technical sciences Silesian University of Technology

�� Residents’ expectations in the field of medical sciences

Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

�� Needs and preferences of residents and entrepreneurs in the area of economic sciences –University of Economics in Katowice

�� Application of social sciences in assessing the natural potential of the Rawa River area in light of planned changes aimed at improving the quality of life in Katowice, and in identifying this space as a place connecting the city's community and the academic environment –University of Silesia in Katowice

Among the numerous specific recommendations regarding both the improvement of the quality of life in Katowice and the substantive scope of the EMNK celebration programme, the most frequently cited need by respondents was to increase the accessibility of science to residents through all forms of its presentation – new programmes and projects, and campaigns that would allow people from various social groups to access knowledge across different disciplines..

STRATEGY AND PROGRAMME FRAMEWORK

MAIN IDEA

SCIENCE AS THE NEW INDUSTRY OF SILESIA

Silesia’s economic and civilisational success grew directly from the industrial revolution. We are both beneficiaries and victims of the unrestrained development of applied science, which brought modernity to the world, a relatively high standard of living, employment, and the dynamic growth of cities. This gave rise to the civilisational appeal of Silesia and Zagłębie, which for two centuries attracted people from Poland and across Europe in search of work, profit, and a place to live. As a result, a unique technical culture emerged – the product of generations working among complex machines and within a highly specialised division of labour. Industrial labour became a social laboratory in which peaceful and effective cooperation among people of different cultures and languages was tested. This community is characterised by a lack of fear of machinery, high technical competence, and a strong propensity for innovation. As Silesian writer Alojzy Lysko put it: ‘A Silesian, as he walks through life, leaves behind an organised world’. We have paid a high price for this: environmental degradation, depopulation, the exhaustion of fossil fuels, and industrial diseases. The region must now undergo a profound energy, environmental, economic, and social transformation. This cannot happen without science. It is time to recognise science and education as new natural resources – the new industry of Silesia.

TOOLS

UNIVERSITIES ARE THE PUBLIC GOOD

Today, science cannot be pursued in isolation. Only by working as a team can we respond to the challenges facing a region as diverse as Silesia. The diagnosis has been made. In the coming years and decades, the region must find practical responses to a number of complex civilisational problems – both the consequences of its historical development path and new phenomena, such as the artificial intelligence revolution and the widespread difficulty in verifying facts (i.e., fake news). Silesia’s power was built on the achievements of science and technology implemented by heavy industry. Science and education are now the means by which we repay the debt owed to generations of inhabitants affected by hazardous labour, environmental degradation, the overexploitation of mineral resources, and social issues typical of industrial areas.

For more than two centuries, Silesian modernisation has followed this path, strengthening the region’s civilisational distinctiveness. Hence the emergence of the Silesian ethos – born of working with complex machinery and the communities harmonised with them, characterised by high technical skills

Strategic approach and programme foundations

Recent regional experiences show that the new driving force is science – now a compass and safeguard for both societal and individual development. In Katowice, in Silesia and in Zagłębie, science is burdened with the duty of delivering solutions to improve everyday life, safeguard health, and open new development pathways. Our part of Europe will not be spared climate change or broader social trends. Silesia is already facing unfavourable demographic changes: depopulation and an ageing society. A profound energy transition lies ahead, and the region’s future prosperity will depend on how effectively it can follow or shape the course of technological transformations amid the rapidly intensifying digital revolution. It is equally essential to defend against increasingly frequent and dangerous cyber threats.

OPERATING METHOD

We designed the City of Science so that the scientific method would routinely support social dialogue and civic debate. If society faces complex challenges, it must have access to knowledge that enables it to make key decisions – free of prejudice, untainted by cliché, and made after hearing all relevant voices. Reaching that point is not easy, but the scientific method provides a pathway: identifying problems, collecting data, proposing solutions, verifying scenarios, and selecting the optimal course of action. Thus, the City of Science follows specific principles of conduct:

�� Every social, environmental, or economic challenge may be a significant research problem.

�� Scientific methods help generate practical solutions by combining expert insight and functional data analysis.

�� Scientific activity and education are tools in the pursuit of a better quality of life and improved public health for the region’s residents.

�� Policymakers in the City, the Metropolis and the Region rely on the expertise and experience of nearly 6,000 researchers in matters crucial to life and health.

�� The voices of nearly 60,000 students and PhD students are key to shaping development strategies at all levels.

�� Investments in sustainable development are based on reciprocity: science for the city – city for science, guided by the latest expert knowledge and available funding.

�� Developing the Programme, Tasks and Strategy in the City

WHAT

ARE THE KEY QUESTIONS WE SEEK TO ANSWER?

Solutions

�� How can science help tackle the most pressing challenges of transformation?

1 2 3 4 5

�� How can science and higher education reshape our cities, the metropolis, and region for the better?

�� How can every resident—regardless of age or background—benefit from science and its achievements?

CITY AND LIFE PROTOTYPING

The four guiding principles implemented in the City of Science are rooted in both local and European experiences of prototyping the Green Science Zone, for which the European Commission awarded the GZM Metropolis and the University of Silesia project in the 2022 Mobility Action competition. These principles were subsequently adopted for the purpose of developing the programme for the City of Science celebrations and its long-term strategy. They include:

The project for prototyping the space along the Rawa River received the top prize in the Mobility Action competition of the European Commission. This award for sustainable mobility solutions was presented on 23 March 2023 at a ceremony held in Ghent, Belgium.

The Mobility Action Award 2022, the first ever of it’s kind, for engaging proffesionals for the public transport, cycling, social development and urban policy sectors, for it’s traffic common measures and for transforming university car park into a green, pedestrian-friendly space. The winner is Metropolia GZM (project submitted in cooperation with the University of Silesia in Katowice).

Torsten Klimke

Head of the Innovation and Research Unit at the European Commission’s DirectorateGeneral for Mobility and Transport

The scientific method necessitates the creation and testing of concepts. The physical space characterising the City of Science is being developed through a process of urban prototyping. Prototyping in Katowice is the beginning of implementation of the model responding to the mobility problems reported by inhabitants of the city centre, students and lecturers of the University of Silesia in the interviews conducted by the Metropolitan Prototyping School team.

Towards the end of September 2022, the process of prototyping space along the Rawa boulevard was launched. The project was created by architect Paweł Jaworski, architect Aleksandra Hantkiewicz-Lejman, and landscape architect Michał Zarzecki.

We invited the inhabitants, students, and university employees to work with us. Together we created solutions that are welcome by the city space users. All of this in order to reject the investment-mainly nature of planning changes, which was dominant before. Prototyping indicated the path for the upcoming changes. Moreover, each person participating in the project had a chance to suggest space improvement, based on their experience, and immediately see the effects of their actions. These activities

were further developed in 2024, resulting in the creation of a master plan for the University of Silesia’s Katowice campus as one of the spaces in the Green Science Zone.

In addition to the European award, the prototyped space also received special recognition from the Polish Town Planners' Society – a special award in the 17th edition of the competition for the best developed public space in Poland, in the category: revitalised urban public space.

The special award was granted for its innovative approach to public space design. The campus project stood out for the complexity of its transformations, addressing a variety of aspects of the area under study, including the river boulevard, campus spaces, transport corridors and green areas. The award aimed to promote the prototyping method as an alternative to creating monumental public spaces that determine the character of places for decades without the possibility of testing changes beforehand.

We created the prototype through a community-driven process, because such an approach returns ownership of the space to those who use it. This, in turn, fosters co-responsibility for the vision and course of transformation, and builds a sense of community around the changes.

Paweł Jaworski

Author of the prototype of the University of Silesia campus

Head of the Department for Climate Adaptation and Urban Policy, Ministry of Climate and Environment

Thematic Paths of the European City of Science

GENERAL PURPOSE: Transformation of the city and region based on modern education and innovations

KEY GOALS:

Science as the new industry of the region

Science as a fundamental tool for social, ecological and digital transformation

Building competencies in the field of science use in the region

Creating jobs of the future –science as a tool for professional transformation

Promotion of local research achievements and pursuit for their wide practical application

and

Integration of environments and cooperation between: universities, city/metropolis/region/voivodeship authorities, institutions, inhabitants, and business

Health and Quality of Life

Development and transformation of the city infrastructure into a democratic, friendly-for-all space

Industries of the Future

Implementation of the City of Science concept – transformation of the city space where public universities from Katowice are located into a network system of intense merger of science and academic culture with the urban tissue (both programme/strategy and investment)

Citizen science and social knowledge bank as the fundamental dialogue

Industrial and Cultural Heritage Social Innovations

Implementation of the European Commission demands and strategies towards the natural environment

Creation and Criticism

LOCAL GOAL:

restoration of a part of the Rawa river and its banks and making it a place of leisure as well as scientific and social experiments

City of Science Foundations

as a tool for social dialogue

Year of the European City of Science

excellence

Support Programmes

2024

Programme for Silesia

in Academic

Thematic Paths of the European City of Science

Health and Quality of Life

Industries of the Future

Social Innovations

Industrial and Cultural Heritage

Creation and Criticism

City of Science Foundations

THEMATIC TRAILS

Science as a tool for social dialogue

In every city, communication and transport are essential – in the City of Science, the routes connect public universities. Thus, six thematic threads were established as the core of the City of Science programme. These paths respond to the most pressing issues of the region, which researchers from the seven participating universities address in line with their areas of expertise.

The Year of the European City of Science celebrations

Scientific excellence

ESOF 2024

Scientist Support Programmes Scientific Programme for Silesia

Investments in Academic Infrastructure

SEE MORE: THEMATIC TRAILS

DESIGN GUIDELINES

→ Apply the principle: think globally, act locally

→ Accessibility (e.g. architectural, language, financial, technological, care for inclusion and equality aspects)

→ Equality (e.g. popular science language, common access, common communication)

→ Sustainable development (using and creating resources in a way that takes into account environmental impact)

→ European dimension (international promotion, participation of foreign audiences and guests, translation of materials, cooperation with foreign scientific centres, participation/creation of international cooperation networks)

→ Interdisciplinary character

→ Pro-activeness and openness in dealing with problems (e.g. leading discussions on problems and challenges, seeking dialogue, seeking solutions through public and expert consultation)

→ Comprehensive, widespread, and clear contact with science

→ Responsible and purposeful design of tasks/events/ projects (e.g. by planning and determining how the proposed task will influence the transformation of the region)

CONTRIBUTION TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EUROPEAN STRATEGIES

→ Implementation of Horizon Europe programme for 2023–2024 – increasing participation and strengthening the European Research Space (Horizon — WIDERA)

→ Implementation of 6 European Commission priorities for 2019–2024 and implementation of the European Commission Strategies research and innovation strategy for 2020–2024:

1) Environment and climate / European Green Deal

2) Our digital future / A Europe fit for the digital age

3) Jobs and the economy / An economy that works for people

4) Protecting citizens and values / A stronger Europe in the world

5) Europe in the world / A new push for European democracy

6) Democracy and rights / A new push for European democracy

→ Implementation of the New European Bauhaus (NEB) concept based on three values:

1) sustainable development,

2) aesthetics,

3) Inclusion – the Green Science Zone as a NEB laboratory.

→ Implementation of the European Commission's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 called 'Bringing nature back into our lives'

→ Implementation of UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030

→ Implementing the Erasmus+ priorities: inclusion and diversity; digital transformation; environment and fight against climate change; participation in democratic life, common values and civic engagement.

Why We Are Building

a City of Science

WHY WE ARE BUILDING A CITY OF SCIENCE

CITY OF SCIENCE

The Year of Science has come to an end. As I write this, I realise that such a statement requires an important clarification; one must add – what has come to an end is a significant initiative that, for 50 weeks, presented the achievements of science, demonstrating its relevance to the life of modern society. We refer to the ‘end’ of the Year of Science only out of archival respect for chronology, for if there is anything we should avoid, it is declaring the ‘end’ of the year (or rather years) of science – especially as, with the election of Donald Trump, we have entered a new century (if anything ‘ended’ in 2024, it was the twentieth century): one marked by the aggressive use of research to shape a new global division, where access to advanced technologies and the capacity to produce them will define the divide between friends, enemies, and the ‘servants’ permitted to gather scraps from the masters’ table. On the other hand – the obscurantist decisions of an American president, aimed solely at electoral gains and appeasing big industry, show that politics can not only disregard science but openly contradict it. ‘Drill, baby, drill’: climate change, after all, is merely a ‘leftist’ fantasy; plastic straws are better than paper ones because the latter ‘explode’ and anyway, the shark will eat everything it encounters. Hence, let us not announce the ‘end’ of the Year of Science.

But when we speak of science, we mean (as Katowice’s Year of Science has vividly demonstrated) not only the great challenges and the substantial financial resources required to address them. To declare the ‘end’ of the Year of Science would be to show a lack of respect for the work accomplished over 50 weeks, during which well-attended meetings and conferences explored diverse areas of human experience: the ‘coldness’ of human action and ambition, the ‘cosmic voyages’ of behaviour and emotion, as well as such phenomena as ‘humour’ and ‘love’. From this broad panorama of themes, it becomes clear that all science involves perfecting the art (yes, the art!) of attentive reflection on life in all its richness. Science is

the attention paid to life, which renders no phenomenon trivial or unworthy of interest. Put simply: science stands in opposition to inattentiveness and the careless haste with which we (aided in no small part by social media) approach the world. Deep reflection and patient slowness – stances that are difficult, for they resist the alarming superficiality dominating the digital realm – form a shared ground between physicists and metaphysicians, doctors and cultural theorists, biologists and philologists. All of them, each within their own field and using its appropriate methods, endeavour to answer the question: how best and most wisely should a human being inscribe themselves into the world, co-operate with a world that is, after all, not exclusively ‘human’ and in no sense ‘belongs’ to us? It is no coincidence that ‘mumpism’ – a brilliant term coined by Timothy Snyder to describe the new order ushered in by American big tech – began with the announcement of the unlawful appropriation of new territories and the renaming of things as a symbolic act of hegemony. It is essential to recognise this in order to protect ourselves from the cynicism of politicians. Therefore, to the two aforementioned features of a scientific (or academic) attitude, I add a third: the necessity of critical observation of the already unfolding attempts to reorganise the world. This is not a matter of simple technophobia – such a stance would be pointless – but of essential critical reflection on a form of techno-optimism that seeks to eliminate all boundaries. It is about resisting the imposition of the notion that a high degree of caution (we speak of ‘caution’, not ‘rejection’) with regard to endeavours such as Artificial General Intelligence constitutes ‘backwardness’ or ‘obscurantism’. Quite the opposite – it is a defence of the seriousness of human thought, which acknowledges its potential but also its limits.

SCIENCE WILL GIVE US FUTURE

Prof. Katarzyna Mizia-Stec, MD, PhD

Vice-rector for Science of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

The slogan 'Science will give us the future' holds special meaning for me, both as a physician and as a researcher. For centuries, it has been science that has driven the advancement of civilisation – it is through science that we push the boundaries of knowledge, solve humanity’s greatest challenges, and create a better future. This applies to fields such as technology, the economy, medicine, ecology and space. Science not only broadens our horizons, but also equips us with the tools to face the challenges of the contemporary world effectively.

Prof. Tadeusz Sławek

Rector of the University of Silesia in Katowice from 1996 to 2002

Importantly, 'science' – in the broadest sense of the word, encompassing all its disciplines – is essential to the future. The concept of 'sustainable development' seems key in today’s world. It is not only the rapid development of modern technologies, but also the evolution of ethics, philosophy, the social sciences, and health sciences that will shape our future. What will set the pace for progress, and what will follow in its wake? It is vital that we maintain balance.

The slogan 'Science will give us the future' is also, for me, a reminder of the importance of education. There can be no science without education. Without it, it is difficult to achieve success, fulfil one’s dreams, or find one’s place in society. The modern world is changing at an incredible pace, and the future belongs to those who are able to adapt, learn new things and develop their skills. In the digital age, it is not only the acquisition of knowledge that matters, but also the ability to apply it – creative thinking, information analysis, and the capacity for problem-solving.

As a professor of medicine and a cardiologist, I also view the slogan 'Science will give us the future' through the lens of medicine – a field in which scientific progress directly saves lives. Contemporary science offers us tools that allow us not only to treat more effectively, but also to prevent illness, anticipate its course, and personalise therapies. It is science that opens the door to a future in which disease is no longer a sentence, and medicine becomes more effective, more precise, and more accessible to all.

At times, we may feel that we are incapable of comprehending what the future holds – and perhaps we are, regardless of whether we are involved in science or not. Yet the small, purposeful contributions we make each day will undoubtedly become part of that future.

LIFE CHANGES SCIENCE

Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek Rector of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

To inhabit the world consciously is to continually confront one’s assumptions with the chaos of reality. This means that our presence is revealed through active engagement in interpreting, transforming, and co-creating that reality. Yet none of the conclusions that arise from this experience can be considered obvious, certain, or permanent, just as reality itself cannot be regarded as predictable or logical – especially when it is subject to the influence of uncontrolled variables such as politics, the economy, the climate, or simply human nature. Life as an ecosystem, which finds

its shape and meaning through subjective everyday experiences, often generates significance beyond our adopted logic, method, or evidence.

Research, then, cannot be conducted in isolation from the world – just as one cannot prevent air from entering even the most sterile laboratories, carrying traces of burnt forests, industrial fumes, or mutating viruses. Science, though it strives for objectivity, is never free from context – it is life itself that forces it to adapt, shifts its priorities, challenges its authorities, and undermines its certainties. The porous and blurred boundary between life and science becomes a space of interaction, influence, and interdependence. To immerse science in the world is thus to entangle it in its contradictions and deeply embed it within a web of social and cultural interests.

Transforming our surroundings has so far expanded only the horizons of human civilisation. And because every innovation requires a material base, this transformation reduces our environment to a source of extractable resources. History demonstrates that development is not an abstract ideal but a path strictly tied to what is materially available – from the Stone Age, through the eras of iron and coal, to today’s economy driven by the lithium-cobalt bloodstream of technology.

The contemporary road from Silicon Valley to rare earth elements reveals a brutal reality about today’s science and technology: far from the idealistic narratives of innovation and progress, they are, in essence, hostages to geopolitics, resource dependency, and ruthless competition for dominance. Science is not merely a neutral observer here, but a driving force of this expansion, while the reality it engages with – unlike the abstract nature it so often imagines – has its limits and breaking points. An obsession with innovation, without reflection on the material and political costs, risks perpetuating patterns of modern colonialism, exploitation, and conflict. Instead of blindly chasing the next breakthrough or gadget, we need an honest discussion about who controls resources, who benefits from technology, and who pays the price of this so-called progress.

Can science help us turn away from existing ways of life based on the abstract logic of endless growth and limitless extraction – can it help us regain a stable balance and learn how to live in relation with others, in a ‘world where many worlds fit’?

Perhaps the key question is not whether science will offer us an answer, but whether we will be ready to accept it. Will we be capable of moving beyond abstract models and seeing reality in its entirety – as a network of relationships, interdependencies, and coexisting worlds that need not cancel one another out? The answers will not be found in laboratories or reports alone – they must emerge in the ways we live, collaborate, and make decisions. Science may guide us, but it is life – polyphonic, unpredictable, entangled in matter and relationships – that will put us to the ultimate test.

REASONS

THE NEW INDUSTRY OF SILESIA

Prof. Ryszard Koziołek Rector of the University of Silesia in Katowice

Today, we know for certain that without science and quality education, we will not improve the quality of life in Silesia; we will not attract new residents; we will not retain our most talented young people. This awareness is not new. Contrary to the widespread narrative about Silesia’s entrapment in an outdated industrial model of civilisation, the region has undergone two major transformative leaps over the past half-century – the establishment of centres of advanced medicine in Katowice and Zabrze, and the spectacular development of culture: music, film, visual arts, architecture, and literature. The Katowice Culture Zone symbolises this shift, but its reach extends across the entire region. Now it is time for the third leap. Research institutions have existed in Silesia since the interwar period, but the moment has come to recognise science as a key developmental priority for the voivodeship, and to treat it as a vital cultural and economic asset. Science is a natural resource, as crucial to the region’s future as the fossil fuels and related industries that underpinned its initial wave of civilisational success. Applied science – namely the mining and heavy industry sector – brought modernity, a relatively high standard of living, employment, and drove the dynamic development of cities. This was the foundation of Silesia and the Dąbrowa Basin’s civilisational appeal, which for two centuries attracted people from across Poland and Europe in search of work, profit, and a place to live. It also gave rise to a unique technical culture – the result of generations of labour within environments shaped by complex machinery and a highly specialised division of labour. Industrial work became, in effect, a social laboratory where peaceful and effective cooperation between people of different cultures and languages was tested. This community is characterised by

a lack of fear of technology, a high level of technical competence, and an inclination towards innovation.

The civilisational transformation of Silesia and Zagłębie does not mean abandoning their unique identity. On the contrary, this identity provides a solid foundation for building a culture of innovation and smart industries –perhaps even more so here than elsewhere. And just as it has been for centuries, in the near future, the science and education sector will once again attract and retain workers and residents from across Poland and the world – above all, the most gifted young people from Silesia and Zagłębie. Most importantly, science and education are means of paying the debt owed to the generations of citizens affected by extremely hard labour, a devastated environment, wasteful exploitation of fossil fuels, and social problems typical to industrial regions. It is the duty of universities, cities, and the region to engage in broad, interdisciplinary cooperation aimed at systematically diagnosing and modelling solutions to the challenges facing the city and region. This cannot be done in isolation. Chemical and biological sciences, medicine and engineering, the social sciences, the humanities, and education must collaborate – not only among themselves but also with local government and economic stakeholders throughout the region. Public universities in the voivodeship should act as a great public think tank in service of its inhabitants – building regional resilience to shocks and crises, and strengthening its competitive advantage both nationally and across Europe.

European City of Science Katowice

Who Is the City of Science for?

The

City of Science has been visited by nearly 600,000 people

Cultural and Artistic Institutions

Scientific Institutions

Social Organisations

Institutions

INSTITUTIONS

Local and Public Authorities

Institutions

ABOUT THE YOUTH COUNCIL

The Youth Council for the City of Science was established by the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science to give a decisive voice to those who represent the future of the region. Its members included representatives of all student and PhD student self-governments of the Consortium’s universities, as well as the Youth Council for the Silesian Voivodeship and the Youth Council for the City of Katowice. The Council’s work was coordinated by the University of Economics in Katowice.

The City of Science gave me something unique –the opportunity to develop my passions and meet people from diverse backgrounds. Thanks to these connections, I am now able to contribute to the development of the Academic Radio at the University of Economics.

The Youth Council opened entirely new doors for me. Organising exhibitions, meetings, and events for the academic community was not only a challenge but also a chance to share ideas and build meaningful relationships. Together with new friends, we created something lasting – memories, projects, and bonds that continue to grow.

And what next? We certainly don’t intend to slow down! Our minds are brimming with ideas and projects we wish to implement. Of course, challenges do arise – as always, time and funding are key – but we believe we will find ways to overcome them and continue working for the academic community. Because when you're surrounded by passionate people, anything is possible!!

Marcel Goldmann Student of the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

It could be said that the City of Science hit young people like a tsunami.

Paradoxically, this somewhat exotic metaphor accurately captures what we experienced in 2024 as a broadly defined interest group – as PhD students, and ultimately as the Youth Council for the City of Science. Dispersed across universities, schools, and our micro-environments, focused on our individual needs, goals, and ambitions, we collided with the region’s diversity, with the academic world, and simply with people who turned out to be different from ourselves. I remember the long negotiations over the Youth Council Programme, where we debated which initiatives should be implemented. I remember the many operational and evaluation meetings, where everyone pointed out the most crucial aspects of each undertaking. But what I remember most are the good moments: the birth of friendships, the times we were simply together – and it was in this togetherness that we found value.

I hope that as a group we become a project –a project that may not yet know exactly what goal it wants to achieve, but whose most important value will be its continued existence, regardless of institutional ties.

Klaudia Żubryk

PhD

student of the University of Silesia in Katowice

Silesian Voivodeship

WHERE IS THE CITY OF SCIENCE?

Katowice was awarded the title of European City of Science 2024. From the outset, however, it was clear to us that the final letter in the acronym ECSK, which we used throughout the year, was purely symbolic. Katowice – and the universities spread across the city – served as a hub of a much wider network, and our strength lay in the reach and vitality of that entire network.

The impulse originating in Katowice spread in ever-wider circles: most notably the Metropolis GZM and the entire region. We can now proudly report that events of ECSK 2024 were held in as many as 34 towns and cities across the region.

Our ideas and plans were also fuelled by the first word in the title we received. We wanted ECSK events to have a national, European, and international scope. Guests came to the City of Science from 38 European countries and, naturally, from beyond the continent as well. It was not uncommon to hear scientific discussions in Silesian, Polish, and a mix of European languages on the boulevards of Katowice.

THE HEART OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE

The City of Katowice was the lead organiser of public-facing activities and the organiser of the EuroScience Open Forum 2024. It also took a leading role in the EU-funded KTW.Science grant under the Horizon Europe programme – Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area. For nearly two years, Katowice hosted a space for scientific engagement under the name Kato Science Corner and implemented a series of popular science, cultural, and sports initiatives, including a competition supporting projects initiated by NGOs. Commissioned by the City, seven universities carried out a study into residents’ expectations of ECSK. Pupils and teachers from Katowice’s schools regularly took part in events throughout the year, and youth representatives initiated activities through the Youth Council. Katowice has been the host of the Silesian Science Festival from the very beginning and continues to support Consortium universities in their daily operations, particularly in terms of infrastructure and the dissemination of research findings.

While Katowice is undoubtedly the heart of the City of Science, its immediate area extends far beyond – encompassing the entire voivodeship. In 2024 alone, the programme was implemented in 33 cities across the region.

ACADEMIC CITIES

The universities of the Consortium are based in 9 cities within the region (Bielsko-Biała, Bytom, Cieszyn, Gliwice, Katowice, Chorzów, Rybnik, Sosnowiec, Zabrze). During the study of regional needs in relation to ECSK, rectors met with the mayors of all academic cities, which resulted in shaping the 50 Weeks programme in a way that prioritised accessibility for residents of university-affiliated towns. The Youth Council's activities were also carried out across all academic cities, sparking meaningful discussion about the future of young people in Silesia.

METROPOLIS

The Metropolis GZM has supported City of Science activities financially and conceptually even before the bid for the title was made. With the creation of the Science Support Fund, Consortium universities were able to undertake additional initiatives of significant social relevance. It was through the work conducted in the GZM MetroLab that the first prototype of the Green Science Zone was developed – a project awarded the Mobility Action 2022 prize by the European Commission. GZM is a co-host of the Silesian Science Festival and a partner of the Scientific Programme for Silesia. GZM co-funded the ECSK celebration programme.

REGION

The Silesian Voivodeship was the second-largest funder of ECSK 2024 activities after the European Commission. In December 2023, the Silesian Regional Assembly adopted a Multiannual Financial Forecast for 2024–2035, allocating 15 million PLN to Consortium initiatives in 2024 alone. The region also committed long-term funding to the Silesian Science Festival, enabling its stable development as a flagship event of the Voivodeship. The Voivodeship cohosts the Silesian Science Festival and is a partner of the Scientific Programme for Silesia. It also plays a key role in university investment processes funded by EU resources.

COUNTRY

The City of Science initiative was supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education and the Ministry of Health, which awarded additional funds to Consortium universities in relation to the celebration year. The ministries also supported national-level communication efforts concerning the City of Science.

1. Collaboration

All City of Science activities during the celebration year were conducted in cooperation with the European Commission and under its supervision. Most tasks were funded through European grants under the Horizon Europe programme. Commission representatives also played an active role in shaping the programme content. They were directly involved in organising the EuroScience Open Forum, EU Talent Fair, and the EUCYS and EU TalentOn competitions.

2. European Universities

Three of the seven Consortium universities are members of European university alliances, which allowed the City of Science initiative to reach 27 partner institutions across Europe. The University of Silesia, through the Transform4Europe alliance, collaborates with 10 foreign universities; the Silesian University of Technology, through the EURECA-PRO alliance, with 8; and since last year, the University of Economics in Katowice, through the BAUHAUS4EU alliance, with 9.

3. Scientific tourism

Young researchers from 42 countries visited the City of Science in connection with organised competitions and conferences, including ESOF 2024.

List of countries:

→ Albania

→ Armenia

→ Austria

→ Belgium

→ Bulgaria

→ China

→ Cyprus

→ Czechia

→ Denmark

→ Egypt

→ Estonia

→ Finland

→ France

→ Georgia

→ Spain

→ The Netherlands

→ Ireland

→ Iceland

→ Israel

→ South Korea

→ Latvia

→ Lithuania

HOW IS THE CITY ORGANISED?

FINANCING

The implementation of the mission of the City of Science was possible thanks to the support of the following institutions:

→ European Commission

→ Ministry of Science and Higher Education

→ Ministry of Health

→ Silesian Voivodeship

→ Metropolis GZM

→ City of Katowice

→ partners from the world of business, art, culture and education

The member universities of the Consortium adopted a resolution defining the division of responsibilities, with the University of Silesia acting as the organiser of joint activities.

These efforts would not have been possible without the support of the Marshal of the Silesian Voivodeship and the Chair of the Metropolis GZM, both of whom declared financial and organisational backing for the City of Science initiatives, eventually becoming actively involved co-organisers.

In the case of EU grants under the Horizon Europe WIDERA programme, the following division of responsibilities was established:

→ EUROPEAN SCIENCE IN THE CITY AND EUROSCIENCE OPEN FORUM – KATOWICE

2024 (acronym: KTW.Science): Coordinator –City of Katowice; Partner – University of Silesia

→ European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) 2024 (acronym: EUCYS2024): Coordinator – University of Silesia

→ EU TalentOn Katowice 2024 – European Union Contest for Early-Career Researchers (acronym: EU TalentOn): Coordinator – University of Silesia

The City of Science was built on a twofold foundation: municipal and academic. Initiated by Silesian public universities in 2021, the idea quickly gained the recognition and support of the City of Katowice, which secured the initial funding and organisational structures necessary to begin negotiations for the title of European City of Science 2024. In parallel, the rectors of seven public universities headquartered in Katowice joined forces to establish the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science, becoming the driving force behind the substantive aspects of the initiative. The University of Silesia in Katowice, as the originator of the effort, assumed the role of Consortium leader. Over the next four years, both the City and the Consortium developed organisational structures enabling:

�� the construction of the annual celebration programme

�� joint applications for EU and other funds

�� expert analysis of needs

�� efficient process management

�� negotiations with the European Commission

�� effective communication and promotion

�� reliable analysis of programme activities

�� cooperation with the socio-economic environment.

PROGRAMME COUNCILS

• Programme Council – ECSK 2024 Management Board

• Youth Council for the City of Science

• Council of Curators of the 50 Weeks in the City of Science

• Programme Council of the Silesian Science Festival Katowice

• Programme Council for ICEQ

• Programme Council for the Scientific Programme for Silesia

EVALUATION COMMITTEES

• Municipal committee for evaluating proposals for 2024 public benefit projects in science, higher education, and learning under the name European City of Science Katowice 2024

• Municipal committee for evaluating applications to organise events and initiatives under ECSK 2024

• Committee for evaluating funding applications for ECSK 2024 events, initiatives, and special projects at the University of Silesia within the City––Region–Academia stream

• Consortium committee for the Silesian Science Award

MANAGEMENT TEAM AND PRODUCTION SUPERVISION

• Managing Director for ECSK 2024 at Katowice City Hall

• Managing Director for ECSK 2024, Academic Consortium Plenipotentiary – Katowice City of Science (USil)

• Coordinating Directors for ECSK 2024 at the Academy of Music in Katowice

• Coordinating Directors for ECSK 2024 at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Coordinating Directors for ECSK 2024 at the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Coordinating Directors for ECSK 2024 at the University of Economics in Katowice

• Coordinating Directors for ECSK 2024 at the Silesian University of Technology

• Coordinating Directors for ECSK 2024 at the Medial University of Silesia in Katowice

• Plenipotentiary of the Mayor for ECSK

• Rector’s Plenipotentiary (USil) for the Green Science Zone

• Director of the ECSK Office

• Executive Director for ECSK 2024 Production and Communication

• Creative Director for ECSK 2024 Marketing

• Executive Director for organisation of visits, academic events, and the annual programme of ECSK 2024

• Executive Director for the Youth Programme of ECSK 2024

• Executive Director for the 50 Weeks and the annual programme

• Executive Director for ESOF

• Creative Director for the 50 Weeks of ECSK 2024

• Director for EU Funds – ECSK 2024

• Executive Manager for the EU TalentOn project

• Coordinator of Seeds of Science

• Executive Manager for the EUCYS project

• Coordinator of Science in the City Festival

• Fundraising Coordinator

• Media Coordinator

• Coordinator of the Teachers for Teachers programme

• Coordinator of the Talent Fair

• Executive Coordinator of the European Researchers’ Night

• Coordinator of the Green Science Zone 2024 Programme

• Coordinator for Citizen Science

• Accessibility Consultant

• Equality and Diversity Consultant

• Environmental Care Consultant

COMMITTEES

• ESOF 2024 Steering Committee

• ESOF 2024 Programme Committee

• ESOF 2024 Media Committee

• ICEQ 2024 Committee of Honour

WORKING TEAMS

• Chancellor–Bursar Team of the Academic Consortium

• Inter-university Team for Promotion, Communication, and Cooperation

• Inter-university Spokespersons’ Team

• Inter-university Team for the City––Region–Academia stream

• Team for EU TalentOn

• Team for EUCYS

• Team for ESOF 2024

• Team for the European Researchers’ Night

• Inter-university Team for the inter-university inauguration of the academic year

• Team for the Silesian Science Festival Katowice

• Production Team for the 50 Weeks

• Working Team responsible for the application and awarding of the European City of Science 2024 title to Katowice

• Working Team preparing the implementation of the Green Science Zone project

• Working Team for acquiring and implementing the European Science in the City Next Generation grant

ACADEMIC CONSORTIUM –KATOWICE CITY OF SCIENCE

ECSK 2024 Management Board –Programme Council

Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 – Plenipotentiary for the Academic Consortium

Inter-university Team of Coordinators

ECSK 2024 Office

Management Team | Production Oversight

Inter-university Team for Promotion, Communication, and Media Relations

Inter-university Spokespersons’ Team

Organising Team for EU TalentOn

Organising Team for EUCYS

Production Team for the 50 Weeks

Organising Team for ESOF 2024

Committee for Reviewing Applications for Funding Events, Initiatives, and Special Projects Organised as Part of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 at the University of Silesia in Katowice, within the City–Region–Academia Stream

Strategic Event Production Fundraising

CITY OF KATOWICE

Chairs of the Committees, Teams and Groups

Working Group in charge of securing and implementing the ‘European Science in the City Next Generation’ Grant

Working Group for the Green Science Zone project

Selection Committee reviewing submitted proposals for the implementation of public tasks in 2024 in the fields of science, higher education, education and upbringing under the ‘European City of Science Katowice 2024’ Programme

Committee for Reviewing Proposals for Organising Events and Initiatives of the European City of Science 2024

Logistics Team for ESOF 2024

Working Group in charge of efforts related to Katowice’s application for and award of the title of European City of Science 2024

Organisational Structure

The overarching shape of the City of Science was determined by the Programme Council, comprising representatives of current and former rectors of the seven Consortium universities and the Mayor of Katowice:

→ Prof. Władysław Szymański, Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

→ Prof. Jarosław Mamczarski, Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

→ Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek, Rector of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

→ Prof. Grzegorz Juras, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

→ prof. Andrzej Małecki, MD, PhD, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

→ Prof. Eng. Celina Olszak, University of Economics in Katowice

→ Prof. Eng. Arkadiusz Mężyk, Silesian University of Technology

→ Prof. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk, Silesian University of Technology

→ prof. Tomasz Szczepański, MD, PhD, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

→ Prof. Ryszard Koziołek, University of Silesia in Katowice

→ Marcin Krupa, PhD, City of Katowice

Efficient execution of the tasks was ensured by, among others:

�� A study of the cooperation potential conducted in 2022–2024, focusing on visibility, social impact, and science outreach. Over 160 academic staff members participated, producing nearly 2,000 pages of reports and recommendations, and analysing key research projects and cooperation potential, leading to the identification of 50 thematic areas and the establishment of a curatorial council for each weekly theme.

�� Ongoing communication within the Programme Council, composed of university authorities, who passed resolutions on thematic scope, task distribution, and funding.

�� Close and regular organisational cooperation among ten entities – the seven universities, the City of Katowice, Metropolis GZM, and the Silesian Voivodeship Marshal’s Office.

�� Diversified funding sources: three EU projects, grants from the Silesian Voivodeship and Metropolis GZM, and private sector support.

�� Engagement of over 200 partners committed to promoting City of Science 2024 activities (e.g., libraries, cultural centres, schools).

�� Eight years of cooperation in science outreach through the organisation of the Silesian Science Festival KATOWICE.

�� Task implementation through inter-university teams within the City of Science 2024.

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION

Promotion, Communication and Media Strategy Communication and promotion efforts for the European City of Science Katowice began with the collaborative consolidation project of the seven Katowice-based public universities (“Supporting University Consolidation Processes”, MEiN/2022/DIR/1761, funded by the Operational Programme Knowledge Education Development under the European Social Fund). The aim was to assess potential for future consolidation, bring executive teams closer together, and develop a common communication system. One of the working groups in this project developed procedures for sharing essential information, content exchange, joint resource use, and action coordination.

This analysis enabled a smooth transition to managing the City of Science 2024 communication.The group met regularly from 2023 onwards and continued throughout the celebrations. As the benefits of this coordinated model became evident, the universities decided to maintain this form of collaboration.

The first major joint task of the group in 2023 was the development of documentation outlining the communication and promotion responsibilities of each member of the Consortium. Universities identified their planned activities, committed to implementation, and presented the tools at their disposal. Multilateral resolutions on communication strategy were then adopted, officially establishing the City of Science communication as a joint undertaking of all seven universities.

The promotional-communication efforts were carried out in line with the Promotion-Communication-Media Strategy of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science, adopted by the rectors on 13 February 2024.

50 Weeks in the City of Science

(author: Martyna Sobolewska, PhD – graduate of the Faculty of Arts in Cieszyn, currently: Faculty of Arts and Educational Science)

The strategy included:

�� Five core areas: marketing, internal communication, external communication, visual identity, media cooperation,

�� Supervision and task allocation among the ten coorganisers of the City of Science 2024,

�� Twenty major thematic threads to be communicated, including: ➞ EMNK 2024 (national and European campaigns) ➞ Silesian science (national and European campaigns) ➞ Study in Katowice (national campaign) ➞ EUCYS, ➞ TalentOn ➞ 50 Weeks in the City of Science ➞ City-Region-Academia ➞ Celebration programme highlights (youth, teachers, science truck, seeds of science) ➞ Polish Science Day at the European Parliament ➞ Inter-university Academic Year Opening ➞ Researchers’ Night, ➞ Closing Weekend ➞ ESOF 2024 ➞ Science in the City Festival ➞ Green Science Zone ➞ Networked Science Centre ➞ Silesian Science Festival Katowice ➞ Ask a Scientist ➞ Science as the New Industry of Silesia.

�� Budgetary assumptions

�� Strategic guidelines for visual identity and marketing campaigns

�� Strategic guidelines for promotional locations

�� Strategic guidelines for external and internal communication

�� Strategic media partner and press relations framework

�� Division of responsibilities between the ten coorganisers, including the project leader and partner of KTW.Science.

INTER-UNIVERSITY PROMOTION

AND COMMUNICATION TEAM:

This team operated under the supervision of a Creative Director for Marketing and an Executive Director for Production and Communication.

Activities began approximately six months prior to the start of City of Science 2024. Drawing on work done in the consolidation project, preparations included:

1) Developing visual identity guidelines and tools (e.g., branding system, website graphics).

2) Creating a communication guideline (e.g., information exchange protocols, target group identification, tool selection, EMNK stylebook).

3) A key milestone was strengthening communication collaboration between the Consortium and its partners: the City of Katowice, the Silesian Voivodeship Marshal’s Office, and Metropolis GZM. Agreements included: Exchange of key information and resource sharing Updates to partner websites to highlight the City of Science programme Prioritisation of City of Science content in partner communications Joint activities led to communication synergy in areas such as Kato Science Corner x Metrolab GZM, the Green Science Zone, and institutionally supported events.

4) To ensure consistency in communication solutions, a document was developed outlining the most important arrangements related to ECSK 2024. The so-called ‘ECSK 2024 Stylebook’ included information on language guidelines, content formatting, the use of arguments referring to the celebrations, communication channels, and strategies for reaching target audiences. The document was distributed for use by all partners. It was supplemented by materials outlining the principles of using the ECSK visual identity.

5) As part of the work of the inter-university ECSK 2024 communications team, documents were also prepared to support the planning of communication activities relating to the celebrations as well as to those carried out by individual universities. Communication plans were created as online documents, continuously updated by the partners. Throughout the celebrations, separate plans were used for the 50 Weeks in the City of Science and for individual strands (MRA, Teachers for Teachers). All partners also received communication guidelines specifying the requirements for the implemented communication activities.

6) Regular coordination meetings were held.

As part of the team’s work, responsibilities for task implementation were also allocated, including:

→ implementation of central communication (coordinated by the University of Silesia; content creation and dissemination were the responsibility of all partners)

→ communication between partners (establishing principles for information exchange, technical solutions for resource sharing, etc.)

→ communication via websites (including the creation of www.miastonauki.pl and programme. miastonauki.pl)

→ communication via social media (guidelines were established for communication using ECSK 2024 social media profiles)

→ other forms of communication, including apps and newsletters (rules were prepared for communication via the Supernova newsletter, which reached over 20,000 recipients each time; the Silesian Science Festival Katowice app was modified, and a new product was launched in the form of the ECSK 2025 app)

The ECSK partners also established responsibilities for additional communication tasks, such as:

→ production of printed publications (including a publication on the 50 most important research projects conducted by the Consortium, and a publication with lesson plans inspired by the 50 thematic ECSK Weeks)

→ creation of thematic podcasts (focused on the 50 Weeks in the City of Science and summarising individual ECSK activities)

→ development of supplementary online services (e.g. www.askthescientist.eu, www.esof.eu, www.studiujwmiescienauki.pl)

→ supervision of statistics and provision of up-todate data regarding communication effectiveness

7) Audience outreach – by leveraging outcomes and data from the Consortium universities’ consolidation project, a network of contacts and communication pathways was established. Data obtained from the universities enabled the creation of resources to facilitate the planning of communication and promotional campaigns. At the same time, using outreach channels accessible to multiple entities allowed for a synergistic effect in communication. The aforementioned coordination meetings also helped avoid duplication and redundancy of content.

8) Analytical activities were conducted based on:

→ proprietary analytical tools available to Consortium universities

→ commissioned media reports evaluating the effectiveness of ECSK 2024 promotional and communication efforts

→ tools measuring brand strength and analysing social media activity (Brand24 and SoTrender)

9) Cooperation with external subcontractors helped to relieve the core communications and promotion team during periods of high workload. The mutual exchange of experience among partners regarding cooperation with external providers enabled the development of a portfolio of trusted entities and individuals entrusted with tasks such as:

→ social media management

→ photographic services

→ writing and editing content for sponsored materials

→ graphic design services

This cooperation with external providers also had a positive impact on the diversity of the messaging and the development of more attractive forms of audience outreach.

10) Implementation of key tasks – in addition to standard activities, such as communication and promotion of specific ECSK 2024 strands (50 Weeks, MRA, Teachers for Teachers, etc.), the team also carried out coordinated activities related to the following events and themes:

→ Polish Science Day

→ ECSK visit to Brussels

→ Activities related to ESOF

→ Activities related to TalentOn and EUCYS

→ Activities related to MIRA

→ Activities related to the Silesian Science Festival

→ Promotion of the FameLab competition

→ Science Communicator School

→ Activities related to Citizen Science

→ ECSK Radio

The following communication channels were used to reach audiences:

→ ECSK 2024 social media

→ social media of the seven Consortium universities

→ ECSK 2024 websites

→ websites of the seven Consortium universities

→ mailing and newsletter services

→ mobile app

→ podcasts

→ press releases

→ press conferences and briefings

→ advertising in traditional and social media

→ sponsored media content

→ press supplements in newspapers and magazines

Key communication statistics:

�� ECSK 2024 website reach: 1,647,694 users

�� Reach of ECSK 2024-related Facebook profiles (including main profile, SSF, TalentOn, EUCYS, ESOF, and others): 9,250,781 users

�� Reach of ECSK 2024 Instagram content (ŚFN, TalentOn, EUCYS, ESOF, and others): 1,431,734 recipients

�� Total number of online ECSK 2024 content publications: 19,966

�� Total number of interactions (online and offline) with ECSK 2024-related content: 209,211,531 contacts

�� Total advertising value equivalent (AVE) generated for ECSK 2024: 40,385,927 PLN

�� Total number of print press publications: 353

�� Reach of radio broadcasts and podcasts: 2,631,000 recipients

�� Website reach for the 7th and 8th editions of the Silesian Science Festival: 168,429 users

�� Reach of the online campaign for the Ask the Scientist initiative: 4,107,368 users

MEDIA

Within the framework of ECSK 2024, the Consortium jointly carried out marketing campaigns that directly and indirectly promoted the Consortium universities as cooperating institutions (outdoor advertising, press, television, radio, internet, social media – a total of 160 entities):

→ European City of Science Katowice 2024 (nationwide)

→ Science. The New Industry of Silesia (nationwide, in cooperation with the Marshal’s Office)

→ Ask the Scientist (international, ongoing)

→ Study in the City of Science (nationwide, ongoing)

→ EuroScience Open Forum (international, in cooperation with the City of Katowice)

→ 7th and 8th Silesian Science Festival (nationwide)

→ Bright Young Minds (international)

Throughout the year, joint cyclical activities were conducted to disseminate information about research carried out at the Consortium’s universities and to communicate the programme of events, including through the following media:

Television: TVN, Polsat, TVP, TVP Info, TVP Nauka, TV Silesia, Telewizja TVT, COMTV;

Radio: Radio RMF FM, Radio ZET, Polskie Radio, Radio TOK FM, Antyradio, Radio ESKA, Radio Nowy Świat, Radio Katowice, Radio 357, Radio RMF MAXX, Radio Chilli ZET, Radio eM, Meloradio, Radio Złote Przeboje, Radio Bielsko, Rock Radio, Radio Fama, Radio Plus, Radio Pogoda, Radio VOX FM

The Internet: Financial Times UK, European Federation for Science Journalism, European Union of Science Journalists Association, Science-guide.eu, Helsingin sanomat, Onet, PAP Nauka w Polsce, Forum Akademickie, Świat Nauki, Wiedza i Życie, Polityka, Pulsar, Charaktery, RMF24.pl, wKatowicach.eu, Nasze Katowice, Nowoczesny Przemysł, Portal Samorządowy, wnp.pl, Slazag, Śląska Opinia, Nasze Sprawy

Press: Newsweek, Forbes, Świat Nauki, Wiedza i Życie, Polityka, Rzeczpospolita, Perspektywy, Charaktery, Europerspektywy, Dziennik Zachodni, Gazeta Wyborcza, Nasze Katowice, Magazyn Pacjent i Zdrowie, Gość Niedzielny, Business Life Polska, Głos Ziemi Cieszyńskiej, Nasze Miasto Śląskie, Trybuna Górnicza

MARKETING

In the area of marketing activities, numerous works were carried out in the scope of: creating graphic materials, advertising studies, promotional materials (gadgets, branding), organization of information and promotional stands and advertising campaigns in public space and on the Internet, which concerned the promotion of EMNK 2024 itself and projects and initiatives within the framework of the EMNK 2024 foundations, i.e.:

→ Programme of events: 50 Weeks in the City of Science, City-Region-Academy, Youth Program, Teachers for Teachers, strategic events: KATOPOLIS – the opening event of the European City of Science 2024, the 7th and 8th edition of the Silesian Science Festival Katowice, EU Talent Fair, Polish Science Day in the European Parliament, Rawa Festival, Inter-university Inauguration of the Academic Year 2023/2024 and 2024/2025, Scientists' Night in the European City of Science 2024, Education Quality Congress, Gala Concert of the City of Science

→ Scientific excellence: Science Programme for Silesia, Citizen Science Projects, EuroScience Open Forum 2022 and 2024, EU Talent Fair, Science in the City Festival, Academy of Science Communication, Observatory of the Future of Science, EMNK IDB UŚ Programmes, Silesian Science Award, Spin Business Accelerator

→ Infrastructure in the City of Science Science Network Centre, Green Science Zone, University investments.

Promotional activities were carried out throughout the year in strategic places such as: Kato Science Corner, Market Square in Katowice, municipal Community Centres, senior clubs, transfer centres, offices, libraries, schools, railway stations in the Silesian Voivodeship; info kiosks in shopping malls; public transport (ZTM, Koleje Śląskie, PKP).

The following advertising media were used: billboards, printed and digital posters, advertising in bus shelters, large-format advertising, and video advertising.

Gadgets were designed and produced for distribution among event participants, such as: pens, notebooks, pencils, cotton bags, original fabric bags, recycled bags, backpacks, lanyards, stickers, glass bottles, reflectors, seed bags, mugs, functional shirts, T-shirts, baseball caps, fanny packs, sweatshirts, lunch boxes.

Designs were created and branding materials were produced: roll-ups, pneumatic tents, heptagons, an advertising ball, flags, seating cubes, deckchairs, stands, Instagram frames, a pneumatic gate, which were used to mark events and promote the EMNK 2024 brand.

Moreover, as part of a number of activities, the University of Silesia in Katowice, the leader of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science (KAKMN), implemented the campaign "Science. New Industry of Silesia". The campaign objectives included: reaching recipients throughout Poland; promoting Katowice as a city of science; presenting Silesia as an attractive region for studying, living

and professional development, as well as emphasizing the importance of cooperation between universities, scientific institutions and the socio-economic environment. Changing the perception of Silesia from an industrial region to a place of dynamic development of knowledge and new technologies, the campaign presented science as a new foundation for the future. To implement the campaign, consistent and eye-catching graphic creations in contrasting colors were developed , highlighting slogans that appeared on outdoor media and in social media. The main slogan of the campaign was ‘Science. New Industry of Silesia’, presenting the Silesian Voivodeship as a region that transforms its industrial heritage into science, art and new opportunities for building a career and spending time. Other slogans include: ‘Some artists finish. Others start’, ‘Come to study, stay for life’, ‘This is where you study, this is where you work, this is where you live’, ‘Science and education, our decks’. The designs use the Di Grotesk KatoScience font by Marian Misiak, which was created exclusively for EMNK 2024. The following graphic elements are used in addition to the slogans: 1) an asterisk – part of the EMNK 2024 logo, referring to the footnote symbol and symbolizing the seven KAKMN universities; 2) the Spodek and mine shaft icons from the Medialab Katowice project, popularizing the architectural heritage of the region.

In the Upper Silesian Industrial Region (GOP), in Gdańsk, Warsaw, Wrocław and Kraków, 619 outdoor advertisements were implemented, including large format, billboards, fullback on buses, trams, screens at railway stations, airports and trains. The campaign was present online on: Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. A special radio spot was also prepared and broadcast on nationwide radio stations. The campaign was implemented in cooperation with the award-winning creative agency Joachim Fersengeld’s Huta 19, managed by Dariusz Rzontkowski, a graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice.

The campaign promoted Katowice and Silesia as a place of development, education, science and innovation. The activities carried out aimed to strengthen the image of Katowice as the European City of Science 2024 and to strengthen the recognition of the universities of the Academic Consortium. Additionally, the campaign emphasized that Silesia is a region where science , cooperation with industry and academic culture drive development and offer attractive conditions for living and working.

ECSK 2024 Visual Identity System

EMNK 2024 visual identification system was created to conduct coherent visual communication about the European City of Science Katowice 2024. A team of graduates and employees of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice worked on its creation and implementation: Aleksandra Braska, Jan Dybała, Anna Kopaczewska, Mikołaj Hałabuda, Dawid Koruszowic, Hanna Sitarz-Pietrzak and, as a guest, Marian Misiak –a typeface designer and publicist, a researcher of visual culture, who prepared a special version of his Di Grotesk KatoScience typeface – the official font of the Consortium.

The team designed the EMNK 2024 logo, which uses a footnote symbol typical of scientific texts – an asterisk, referring in form to 7 universities organized around a common mission, cooperating and working to strengthen research infrastructure and scientific potential. A brand book and a visual identity manual for ECSK 2024 were also developed. The team conducted workshops on communication and promotional strategy for ECSK 2024.

The ECSK 2024 logo and the DiGrotesk KatoScience typeface were used by employees of the institutions organising ECSK 2024 in connection with the activities of the European City of Science Katowice 2024. The use of the ECSK 2024 logo is subject to consultation within the respective institutions and designated units to ensure the correctness and consistency of the system's application.

The visual identity system of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 served as the core system for ECSK 2024 visual communication. For the '50 Weeks in the City of Science' path and key events — ESOF 2024, EU TalentOn 2024, and EUCYS 2024 — visual identity systems were developed in alignment with the ECSK 2024 visual identity system.

Ilustracje tematyczne dr Natalii Łukomskiej

50 Weeks in the City of Science Visual Identity System

Graphic designs for the promotion of each of the 50 Weeks in the City of Science are prepared in a cohesive style consistent with the ECSK visual identity system. The following graphic materials were produced: outdoor advertisements for display on billboard-type media; posters with the monthly programme — for print and digital display; advertisements with the monthly programme for placement in tram and bus shelters; posters with the detailed programme of a given Week; and postcards featuring illustrations by Dr Natalia Łukomska. These materials were intended for websites: miastonauki.pl and those of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science, as well as for communication on ECSK 2024 social media channels and those of the Academic Consortium –Katowice City of Science.

EU TalentOn 2024 Visual Idendity System

The visual identity system for EU TalentOn 2024 employs an extended colour palette and typography from the ECSK 2024 visual identity, combined with graphic elements from the 2022 visual identity system. The system was designed by Iwona Cichy, PhD.

ESOF 2024 Visual Identity System

The visual identity system for the EuroScience Open Forum Katowice 2024 incorporates the colour palette and typography used in the visual identity system of ECSK 2024, as well as the asterisk, a key element of the ECSK 2024 logo. The system was designed by Tomasz Kipka, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.

EUCYS 2024 Visual Idendity System

The visual identity system for EUCYS 2024 features a logo that includes a graphic element representing EUCYS, expanded to incorporate the icon of Katowice’s most recognisable building, the Spodek. The design utilises the colour palette and typography of the ECSK 2024 system. The system was developed by Martyna Sobolewska, PhD.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

The European City of Science received strong support from numerous institutions, businesses, and representatives of the wider community. Many schools, cultural centres, and cultural institutions, as well as municipal authorities from academic cities in the region, actively participated in promoting the year’s events.

Particularly involved as partners and/or sponsors of the City of Science were the following institutions:

→ Silesian Museum in Katowice

→ Statistical Office in Katowice

→ The Henryk Mikołaj Górecki Silesian Philharmonic

→ Provincial Inspectorate of Plant Health and Seed Inspection Service in Katowice

→ Silesian Library

→ ‘Silesia Film’ in Katowice

→ Silesian Opera

→ Silesian Freedom and Solidarity Centre

→ Cieszyn Castle

→ Rozrywka Theatre

→ Zagłębie Theatre in Sosnowiec

→ BWA Contemporary Art Gallery in Katowice

→ Gustaw Daniłowski Municipal Public Library in Sosnowiec

→ Planetarium - Silesian Science Park

→ Łukasiewicz Centre

→ Decathlon Ltd.

→ Upper Silesian Waterworks Company Inc.

→ Upper Silesian Aviation Group Inc.

→ ING Bank Śląski Inc.

→ Koleje Śląskie Ltd.

→ Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange

→ Operator of industrial gas pipelines

→ GAZ-SYSTEM Inc.

→ PKO Bank Polski

→ Polish-U.S. Fulbright Commission

→ State Treasury – State Forest Holding (State Forests) Regional Directorate of State Forests in Katowice

→ Skymedia Ltd.

→ iSpot Poland Ltd.

→ Fakro Ltd.

The gold sponsor of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 was PKO Bank Polski, an illustration of exemplary intersectoral cooperation with the academic community. In the City of Science, the Bank co-organized as many as 15 events as part of the 50 Weeks in the City of Science programme and the Silesian Science Festival Katowice.

The year 2024, when Katowice held the title of European City of Science, was a unique and immensely engaging initiative promoting science. The educational activities undertaken by PKO Bank Polski during this time were excellently aligned with the themes of each week and allowed us to strengthen our cooperation with universities actively participating in the project. As a bank, we strive to actively support scientific initiatives, especially those aimed at enhancing financial literacy among children and young people. In addition to traditional and digital media communication, we organised numerous meetings at our branches, presentations, as well as educational sessions in the form of urban games and quizzes.

We also employed digital tools, including VR headsets, to conduct lessons in the metaverse. During the year of the European City of Science, we were able to reach many young residents of our region through our educational activities, both during the specific themed weeks in which we were directly involved, and throughout the Silesian Science Festival in Katowice. We are grateful for such successful collaboration and the prospects for its future development!

Jacek Piechota

Regional Director of Retail Banking

PKO Bank Polski

Silesian Science

Programme Development

Festival Awarding of the title of the ECSK 2024

Year-Round Celebrations

Scientific Programme for Silesia

City for years to come

Analysis of Key Research Topics

Analysis of Universities Collaboration Potential

Analysis of Residents’ Needs

List of Proposed Topics

Programme Council Resolution

Appointment of Producers (supervised by the Managing Director for 50 Weeks in the City of Science)

Appointment of Curators (supervised by the Executive Director for 50 Weeks in the City of Science)

Shared Set of Principles for Designing and Implementing 50 Weeks in the City of Science

Determining the Week’s Budget

Implementation of the Week

Designing the 50 Weeks in the City of Science Programme

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE? I. THE YEAR OF SCIENCE 2024 –PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMMES

50 WEEKS IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE

↳ 50 Weeks in the City of Science is the flagship year-round programme of the European City of Science.

Text by: Łukasz Lamża, PhD

The idea was simple: let every week of the year 2024 revolve around a different concept – a keyword that would capture both an aspect of human life and a field of scientific research. Cold Week – because we have all experienced cold, while scientists are eager to talk about the limits of cold in the universe, about how the body responds to cold water immersion, and about cryotherapy – not to mention the fun of working with liquid nitrogen. Treasure Week – because we all dream of discovering a priceless gem buried in the earth, and scientists are delighted to show how we really extract diamonds or Silesia’s ‘black gold’, and what treasures fall from the sky. And so on.

We began the design process with a ‘wish list’ of topics we felt simply had to be told. At the same time, we tapped into the resources of the seven universities within the Academic Consortium: a long list of researchers, lecturers, and science communicators. It quickly became clear that these lists overlapped – it wasn’t difficult to find curators (i.e. scientific supervisors) for the 50 thematic weeks. Remarkably, these researchers immediately embraced their roles, stepping beyond their narrow specialisations: medical scientists working on viruses knew from the start that Virus Week would also require input from IT specialists, and the mathematicians responsible for Number Week quickly teamed up with the University of Physical Education to organise a 3.14 km run. I clearly recall a brilliant three-way meeting with representatives of the Medical University of Silesia and the Academy of

Music, during which we jointly planned Organ Week. Each week was also assigned a producer – someone responsible for coordinating its organisation. In practice, the 50 Weeks programme quickly evolved into 50 fullscale science festivals. Nothing like this had been done before: 50 science festivals, one after another, throughout the entire year. As one wrapped up on Sunday evening, dozens or even hundreds of people were already standing by for the next. Over the year, we held 2,006 events, attended by 82,783 participants – from large and spectacular ones, like the aviation picnic, to small, intimate meetings where specialists could calmly discuss difficult, niche topics with the public.

Today, we can confidently say that we filled every corner of the year 2024 with science – diverse, colourful, and crossing disciplinary boundaries.

The academic and programme coordination of the 50 Weeks programme was overseen by Łukasz Lamża, PhD – Creative Director for 50 Weeks, while production and the producer team were coordinated by Krzysztof Pająk – Executive Director for 50 Weeks.

Cold Week

1–7 January

Curators:

Aneta Szczygielska-Łaciak, PhD (USil)

Marcin Łaciak, PhD (USil)

Producer Aneta Knapik (USil)

Events 60 Participants 2 500

Cold Week inaugurated the year-round 50 Weeks programme. The weather played along, and we were even able to organise several typically wintry events, such as a walk through Silesia’s winter landscape and group cold-water swimming. It soon became clear, however, that low temperatures are a research topic across numerous scientific fields.

Participants in our events journeyed into outer space, delved into the molecular and atomic scales, and even into elementary particles. What are the temperatures in space? What is absolute zero? How do low temperatures affect living organisms and the human body? What temperatures can humans withstand? What secrets do glaciers hold? What can forensic traces preserved by low temperatures reveal?

Curators:

8–14 January

Ewa Głuszek, Eng. (POLSL)

Prof. Eng. Małgorzata Labus (POLSL)

Producer Paulina Świtała (USil)

Events 43 Participants 1 440

The main theme of Treasure Week was the Earth’s treasures. Without basic mineral resources, most everyday items would not exist. Guests of Treasure Week also explored some of the Earth’s most precious and unique treasures – gold, diamonds, emeralds, and even extraterrestrial rocks like meteorites. During gemmology workshops, participants had the chance to try distinguishing real gemstones from imitations.

We also presented machines and devices used in resource extraction, as well as robots that are revolutionising industry and entering our daily lives. The week concluded with a Mineral and Fossil Exchange, where visitors could purchase their very own ‘treasure’.

Curators:

Drawing Week

15–21 January

Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek (ASP)

Paulina Walczak-Hańderek (ASP)

Producer Ewelina Budzińska-Góra (USil)

Events 34 Participants 640

‘Drawing can be a sketch, a note, a record of one’s first thought, or a project. We can even say that drawing is a state of mind. It keeps us company from the very start of our lives, regardless of whether someone uses it professionally or doodles during a boring phone call. Nevertheless, drawing is not only a visual expression. The equivalent of drawing can be found in audio registers and performative actions. It is also a therapeutic tool. During Drawing Week in the City of Science, we considered drawing as a source we experience from the very beginning.

The programme included workshops for children and adults (including sound-based ones), as well as exhibitions, lectures, and a dance performance.

Curator:

22–28 January

Katarzyna Brukało, DHSc (SUM)

Producer Ilona Hajok, PhD (SUM)

Events 27 Participants 600

Eating is not only a basic biological need but also a matter of quality of life – and a fascinating research topic at the intersection of environmental, agricultural, chemical, logistical, psychological, and educational sciences.

Food Week featured, among others, an interdisciplinary conference on nutrition titled A Common Path to Children’s Health, aimed at those working with children, their wellbeing, and healthy development. We also held the workshop Public Food Procurement: Skills Enhancement for Catering Managers and School Directors, to discuss best practices for children’s nutrition in schools.

Youth particularly enjoyed the zero-waste workshops: from theory, to group meal preparation, to stocking a community fridge with previously cooked dishes.

Artificial Intelligence Week

29 January – 4 February

Curator:

Prof. Jan Kozak (UE)

Producer Barbara Probierz, PhD (UE)

Events 54 Participants 1 050

Artificial intelligence can analyse data, recognise patterns, make decisions, and even communicate in a manner similar to humans. It is a fascinating research field opening up countless possibilities.

During Artificial Intelligence Week, we aimed to explain the fundamentals of modern AI. One lecture, A Practical Guide to ChatGPT, explored what lies behind the interface of today’s most popular chatbot. Children and teens took part in workshops on robot and rover programming, while adults attended sessions on automating analytical processes.

AI also raises important questions, which we addressed during debates and open lectures: How should AI be introduced in primary and secondary schools? What are the key risks in current AI development?

Curator:

5–11 February

Prof. Zbigniew Waśkiewicz (AWF)

Producer Joanna Śrubarczyk (AWF)

Events 26 Participants 2 500

Mountain Week combined cultural heritage, a passion for sport, and sustainable personal development. Activities were designed to appeal to a broad audience: from those unfamiliar with the mountains to tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and lovers of mountain culture..

We hosted numerous lectures and workshops: Mountain Safety, Preparing for a Mountain Expedition, Health in the Mountains – with contributions from climbers, trainers, and specialists in emergency medicine, orthopaedics, and traumatology. Climbing workshops were a great success, and we even organised a joint ski-touring trip into the mountains.

We also screened the film ‘Z hałdy w Himalaje’, which tells the story of a group of young people under the care of the Ulica Foundation who took part in an expedition to the world’s highest mountain range.

Love Week

12–18 February

Curator:

Ania Malinowska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Aleksandra Kwiatkowska (USil)

Events 25 Participants 1 500

During Love Week, we explored the mechanisms, contexts, nature, technologies and representations of emotions commonly associated with love – which, crucially, are not always perceived as universal.

Some of the events included: Takotsubo: Broken Heart Syndrome and the Power of a Troubled Mind, Love through the Eyes of a Philosopher –A Development Workshop, and Can Mindfulness Improve the Quality of Romantic Relationships?

In the spirit of interdisciplinarity, a lecture was also held entitled Quantum Entanglement: When We Do Not Know Where One Body Ends and Another Begins.

A highlight of the week was the EEG Kiss –a science-art experiment by the Dutch duo Lancel/ Maat from Amsterdam. Volunteer couples kissed while their brain activity was recorded using EEG technology and then visually rendered for the assembled audience.

Curator:

Humour Week

19–25 February

Łukasz Jach, PhD, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Małgorzata Balewska (USil)

Events 19 Participants 775

The ability to create and perceive humour is one of the traits that distinguishes humans from other beings on Earth. Shared laughter remains one of the most powerful mechanisms of social bonding.

The week began with the academic session On Humour and Humours. The next day, we shifted focus to science itself, with Scientific Research with a Smile: Meeting Crazy Nauka and the IG Nobel Prize.

We also enjoyed Polish comedy film classics such as ‘Miś’ and ‘Pół żartem, pół serio’, shown at the Światowid cinema with expert commentary. Laughter yoga workshops and illustration classes with artist Bartosz Minkiewicz drew strong interest. The week concluded with a performance by the Impro Silesia Theatre.

Three Cultures Week

26 February – 3 March

Curator:

Aniela Kucharska, PhD, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Cecylia Tatoj, PhD (USil)

Events 48 Participants 2 022

Even though today it may seem impossible, there was once a country in Europe in which three cultures and the three largest religions: Islam, Judaism, and Christianity coexisted together. Which country was it? That country was Spain under King Alfonso X the Wise. Three Cultures Week revisited this legacy.

Participants could visit the Doha Centre for Culture and Dialogue, attend introductory Arabic and Hebrew language classes, and listen to traditional Ukrainian bandura music. The lecture Science and Faith in the Islamic Perspective was followed by a discussion on the relationship between science and religion. Interfaith debates featured representatives of Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities. Guests enjoyed henna tattoos, coffee brewing workshops, and a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony. There were also concerts, a screening of a film about Notre Dame Cathedral, and a vintage tram tour recounting stories of the past residents of Katowice and Będzin.

Curators:

4–10 March

Milena Ratajczak, PhD, New Space Foundation Jan Pomierny, New Space Foundation

Producer Agnieszka Sikora, PhD (USil)

Events 44 Participants 2 221

Organised in collaboration with the New Space Foundation, Space Week was designed to appeal to everyone – from the youngest space enthusiasts to seasoned experts.

The first event was The Fermi Paradox: Where Are the Aliens?, a discussion with science fiction authors co-hosted with the Silesian Fantasy Club. Later events explored both the psychological (Astronauts Wanted! Psychological Selection for Space Missions) and technical (Building an SSTV Transmitter –Transmitting Images from the Stratosphere and Beyond) dimensions of space exploration.

A highlight was the successful stratospheric balloon mission, which stirred considerable excitement.

Numbers Week

11–17 March

Curator:

Anna Glenszczyk, PhD (USil)

Producer Paulina Świtała (USil)

Events 54 Participants 2 100

Numbers are everywhere – even those who once struggled with maths cannot escape them. During Numbers Week, we showed how to befriend them and appreciate their beauty in everyday life.

The lecture From Zero to a Million: Why ‘Nothing’ Has Value discussed cryptocurrencies, while an AIgenerated art exhibition sparked conversation about evolutionary algorithms. Mathematicians attended the seminar The Coq Proof Assistant in Research and Teaching, focusing on automated proof systems.

The week ended with a series of runs inspired by pi –from 100 × π metres (approx. 314 m) for preschoolers to 3.14 km for mathematically-minded adults.

Curator:

City Week

18–24 March

Roman Marchaj, PhD (USil)

Producer Ewelina Budzińska-Góra (USil)

Events 63 Participants 14 632

The name alone – European City of Science – pushes us toward the topic of the city and to ask some important questions. First and foremost, those fundamental questions, such as: who is the city for? What is the city for? What should it be like?

We organised a series of meetings for secondary school students under the theme How Does a City Work? – each held in a different city. Urban engineering enthusiasts discussed the concept of the ‘sponge city’, which offers hope for smarter water management. Legal and organisational issues were addressed in the seminar How Do Metropolitan Areas Function in Central Europe?

The week also included urban walks and a night-time tour of Katowice’s iconic ‘Spodek’ arena.

Curator:

Sound Week

1–17 April

Sara Knapik-Szweda, PhD (USil)

Producer Paulina Świtała (USil)

Events 33 Participants 795

Sound accompanies us daily, affecting our emotions, health and perception of the world – it is worth exploring on many levels, from physics to medicine and the arts.

Events included workshops, concerts, lectures, and soundwalks. Participants explored urban soundscapes, attended music therapy sessions, and learned about sound’s impact on the body and mind. The week also featured the conference Sound and Its Path, self-care workshops, community concerts and the Interference exhibition.

Sound Week concluded on 7 April with the concert My Sonic City by Przemysław Scheller, PhD, composed from field recordings transformed using modern sound technologies.

8–14 April

Curator:

Karolina Lau, MD (SUM)

Producer Ilona Hajok, PhD (SUM)

Events 21 Participants 800

Virus week was a time about fighting with the the problem of flagrant virus disinformation knows as the so-called infodemic. We aimed to highlight the key elements of a well-functioning immune system – from proper nutrition and physical activity, through stress management, to vaccination.

We held the Interuniversity Forum of Young Scientists – Viruses in Our Lives II. There was also an official screening within the STOP HPV campaign, featuring Prof. Zenon Czuba, oncologist Katarzyna Kryszczyszyn-Musialik, MD, and gynaecologist Karina Barszczewska, MD (as part of Medicine on High Heels), along with medical students from the Medical University of Silesia.

Inspired by the ‘Seven Principles of Living Virus-Free’, we organised the Run for Health and the Viruses vs Vaccines outdoor game – from words to action!

New Technology Week

15–21 April

Curator:

Katarzyna Schmidt, PhD, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Paulina Świtała (USil)

Events 50 Participants 1 000

It was not only a week of scientific discoveries, but also an opportunity to think about the impact of new technologies on our everyday life, society and the future of our planet.

The ‘Accelerating Science’ exhibition, entirely dedicated to CERN, was presented in the SMCEBI building in Chorzów. It featured three ‘capsules’, including a theoretical physics room, a children's area, and exhibits showcasing microcosmic experiments.

Additional events included the student lecture Smart Materials and youth workshops such as Can a Polygraph Really Detect Lies? 3D printing technology was presented in a medical context during 3D Printing in Combating COVID-19 and in Healthcare.

Curator:

22–28 April

Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (AM)

Producer Agnieszka Sepioło (AM)

Events 39 Participants 1 660

What is your first thought when hearing the word ‘organs’? Do you imagine a majestic musical instrument, or rather a heart, lung, or other internal organ? Organ Week covered all of those associations.

Organ Week featured concerts and workshops inaugurating the new organs built in the concert hall of the Academy of Music. Prof. Władysław Szymański – Rector of the Academy of Music – was one of the performers.

The medical context was also not forgotten, for example during the workshop titled ‘Hear Your Organs –a conversation about internal organs, prevention, and screening tests’.

We also organised the meeting ‘The Heart and the Brain’, during which Jacek Dehnel and Piotr Tarczyński talked about the craft of writing.

Architecture Week

29 April – 5 May

Curator:

Krzysztof Groń, PhD (POLSL)

Producer Ewelina Budzińska-Góra (USil)

Events 17 Participants 1 080

Architecture is one of those subjects that lent itself particularly well and naturally to an interdisciplinary, rich, and multifaceted week.

On the one hand, architecture is a technical discipline – we therefore organised workshops on office work ergonomics, as well as on the fundamentals of working with ceramic materials and glass. One of the lectures during our open academic seminar was titled ‘Designing from the Perspective of Neuroscience’.

On the other hand, Grzegorz Piątek, winner of the Nike Literary Award, led a meeting entitled ‘Architectural Motifs in Contemporary Literature’. Professor Tsutomu Nozaki, in turn, showed us the beauty of Japanese architecture.

Architecture Week would not be complete without walks through the urban space of Katowice, including the walk ‘Architecture of Science’ in cooperation with the Youth Palace.

6–12 May

Curator:

Anna Machwic, PhD (ASP0

Producer Magdalena Palupska (ASP)

Barbara Firla, PhD (ASP)

Events 80 Participants 1 756

Book Week coincided with the Librarian and Library Day on 8 May. Thanks to the staff of academic libraries, we were able to discover the most valuable treasures of these institutions. CINiBA presented publications and objects from the Franciszka and Stefan Themerson collection, and offered a guided tour of its building – with commentary in the Silesian dialect.

We also organised an exhibition of miniature books (less than 10 cm) from the private collection of librarian Natalia Garasińska, a meeting with Michał Chojecki – expert and creator of zines – and a collaborative workshop to create a zine about Katowice.

Gregor Strutz, an expert in inclusive design, led a workshop for the library community. There was also the exhibition ‘Imaginary Unit’, featuring book projects by the youngest generation of creators, produced at the Book Graphics Studio at the Academy of Fine Arts.

Curator:

Breathe Week

13–19 May

Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (AM)

Producer Agnieszka Sepioło (AM)

Events 20 Participants 1 957

Breath can be considered from many perspectives –physiological, psychological, or artistic. We also say ‘I need to catch my breath’ when it is time to rest.

During Breath Week, we sat down together and worked on our breathing. We organised an open workshop titled ‘Breath in Mindfulness Meditation. On the Importance of Focusing on the Breath for Physical and Mental Health. Mindfulness – Breath’, as well as the event ‘Breath in Nursing Practice’, aimed at nurses and medical professionals.

Other highlights included the International Masterclasses ‘Breath – Music’, targeted at music and rhythmics teachers in primary and secondary music schools, as well as general education music teachers.

Curator:

20–26 May

Łukasz Szewczyk, PhD (UE)

Producer Aleksandra Nocoń, PhD (UE)

Events 45 Participants 1 920

It is worth talking about money, especially in view of the fact that it is still a taboo subject in our culture.

During Money Week, we organised a series of events in which money played the leading role – including a workshop for secondary school pupils entitled ‘Banknote Security Features’, and another more practical session: ‘The Art of Saving for a Dream Goal’.

Aimed at the academic community, students, and adults, the conference ‘Faces of Contemporary Money – from Cash to Digital Currency and Payments’ also took place.

In the lecture ‘Money in Art’, we focused on money as a motif in art, particularly in painting. We also sought to answer the question: can money itself be a work of art? In addition, we analysed the market prices of selected works of art.

Curator:

Flying Week

27 May – 2 June

Jarosław Kozuba, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Producer Robert Wieszała, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Events 17 Participants 2 975

Aviation is part of everyday life for some, a lifelong passion for others, or an unfulfilled dream of becoming a pilot, flight attendant, or aircraft mechanic. During Flying Week, we reached out to all of these groups.

In cooperation with Katowice-Pyrzowice International Airport, we organised a conference on topics such as the current state of air transport in Poland and airspace management.

There was also a job fair for aviation companies, a night-time drone show, and a safety knowledge competition on unmanned aerial operations for primary and secondary school pupils.

The weekend featured air shows with acrobatic teams, aerobatic glider demonstrations, and a parachute drop by a skydiving group.

Curator:

Old Age Week

3–9 June

Agnieszka Batko-Szwaczka, MD, DSc (SUM)

Producer Aleksandra Wilk (SUM)

Events 29 Participants 872

During Ageing Week, we searched together for the ‘elixir of youth’ – something that could at least slow down the ageing process. We spoke not only about how to remain healthy for many years, but also addressed topics such as depression and sexuality in old age.

For secondary school students, we prepared, among other things, activities using an ageing simulator, which allowed them to experience the limitations that elderly people face in everyday life. One of the week’s lectures was titled ‘Pharmacological Methods of Life Extension’.

Practical activities were of particular importance to us: hence our rich offer of workshops such as ‘The Healing Power of Juggling’, ‘Nordic Walking – The Path to Health’, ‘Mindfulness – Attention Training’, and ‘Aqua Senior’.

Curators:

Crystal Week

10–16 June

Jarosz, PhD, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Paulina Świtała (USil)

Events 73 Participants 3 100

Crystallography, electronics, optoelectronics, jewellery-making, chemistry, biology, pharmacy, and medicine – these are just some of the fields in which crystals play an important role.

‘Crystals are everywhere’ – through discussions we discovered them in the Earth’s crust, in coal mines, in living organisms, in laboratories, in space, in art, in fossils, and even in literature.

We built them out of paper and atomic models, created crystal-themed graffiti in the town square, listened to glass harp music, marvelled at giant crystals in inaccessible caves, visited research laboratories, and finally viewed exhibitions both scientific and artistic.

There was also an academic conference titled ‘Crystals – Order, Beauty, and Usefulness’.

Transport of the Future Week

17–23 June

Curators:

Producer Damian Hadryś, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof. (POLSL)

Events 68 Participants 2 040

Future Transport Week was an attempt to share our passion for modern modes of transport and to encourage interactive engagement with the latest automotive, rail, and air transport technologies.

Transport is developing rapidly, and no one knows what the future will bring. We organised lectures such as ‘New Energy Sources in Transport’ and ‘Lasers in Transport’, as well as a hydrogen bus ride in Katowice, complete with a short technical presentation of the vehicle.

The final of the Rail Transport Knowledge Competition also took place during the week. Part of the Road Transport Day included simulator sessions, laboratory demonstrations, and activities at the chassis and engine dynamometers.

Magdalena Szubka, PhD (USil)

Jerzy

Adam Mańka, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Rafał Setlak, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Curator:

Silesia Week

24–30 June

Lucyna Sadzikowska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Ewelina Budzińska-Góra (USil)

Events 66 Participants 2 800

Silesia Week consisted of several autonomous thematic blocks, together creating a coherent image of the region.

On one hand, we did not forget Silesia’s industrial heritage. Franco Zeccino’s photographic exhibition ‘The Silesia We Don't Want to See’ showed the scars left by heavy industry on both the landscape and the people of the region. But of course, Silesia is not only about industry – hence, for example, our group walk through the Buczyna Forest Sanctuary.

We discussed prospects for Silesia’s development, including during the meeting titled ‘Open Artistic Innovation as a Method of Promoting the Culture of National Minorities in Tourism’.

1–7 July

Curator:

Anna Budzanowska, PhD, City of Katowice

Producer Mirosław Rusecki

Events 34 Participants 1 760

During Knowledge Week, we explored the multidimensional and vital role knowledge plays in the modern world. Each day, we highlighted a different facet of knowledge – from scientific and empirical to intuitive and practical. Through lectures, debates, and workshops, we discussed how knowledge informs our decisions, helps us solve problems, and drives progress in technology, culture, and society.

A particular focus was placed on the importance of reliable information in times of crisis – such as the COVID-19 pandemic or geopolitical challenges. The Week of Knowledge served as an opportunity to view knowledge as a tool for change, protection, and building a conscious future. Katowice is a unique city on the European map, transforming science into the prosperity of its residents.

Events took place across various city locations, including the Kato Science Corner, where participants engaged in interactive presentations and experiments.

Contrast Week

8–14 July

Curator:

Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (AM)

Producer Agnieszka Sepioło (AM)

Events 33 Participants 971

The design of this week allowed us to explore stimulating connections between science and art. Contrast is a cognitive phenomenon (‘a stark difference between juxtaposed phenomena’), an artistic concept (‘the difference in brightness between light and dark areas in an image’), and also a medical term: ‘contrast’ as a medium that enhances visibility in radiographic images.

At the Academy of Music, we held the lecture Black and White. A Few Words on the Structure and History of the Piano, as well as musical events such as the first concert by participants of the 14th International Master Piano Course.

In Częstochowa, we organised workshops for seniors titled The Power of Black and White/BALANCE, and in Katowice’s SpinPLACE, Szymon Franczyk, PhD delivered a lecture entitled Contrast. From Administration to Examination.

Microworld Week 15–21 July

Curators:

Anna Gnida, PhD, DSc, Eng. (POLSL)

Justyna Michalska, PhD (POLSL)

Producer Anna Byczek-Wyrostek, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Events 76 Participants 760

Many aspects of our everyday environment remain invisible to the naked eye. Right next to us, life unfolds on a completely different scale –the microscale.

The hero of Microworld Week was the microscope –guests became well acquainted with it during workshops such as Into the Plant Cell with a Microscope, which utilised brightfield, polarised light, phase contrast, and fluorescence microscopy. We closely examined microorganisms, including fungi, gut bacteria, and tardigrades.

We also explored intelligent materials and fungus farms cultivated by ants. Visitors were introduced to the world of macrophotography through the exhibition Microworld in Photography by Marek Miś.

22–28 July

Curators:

Ewa Biłas-Pleszak, PhD, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Katarzyna Węsierska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Katarzyna Wyrwas, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Anna Szrama (USil)

Events 52 Participants 1 590

During Voice Week, we invited guests to discover the versatility of the human voice – from vocal hygiene and projection for public speakers and microphone users, through speech therapy diagnostics (Check Your Voice!), to its expressive power in art and media, such as a recital dedicated to the female voice in music.

Throughout the week, we hosted CAMP DREAM. SPEAK. LIVE – Dream, Speak and Live! – a programme for children who stutter and their parents, supported by specialists and student volunteers from the Summer School of Speech Therapists at the University of Silesia.

29 July – 4 August

Curator:

Łukasz Kałębasiak, City of Katowice

Producer Wojciech Mirek, City of Katowice

Events 17 Participants 350

If we agree with John Cage that ‘everything is music’, then the multidimensional nature of Music Week’s programme comes as no surprise.

Thanks to the Łukasiewicz Research Network –EMAG Institute of Innovative Technologies, we explored new ways of creating and experiencing music in a unique environment – an electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing chamber.

For festival and concert hall organisers, we held a two-day conference Building Musicians’ Careers –Strategies and Tools in Practice.

The ‘Wandering Dance Party’ brought music to the streets of Katowice as we danced through the city with Kapela Fedaków, discovering the secrets of traditional Silesian music and dance.

Boredom Week

5–11 August

Curator: Łukasz Lamża, PhD

Producer Krzysztof Pająk (USil)

Events 16 Participants 300

During Boredom Week, we slowed down. Midsummer is the perfect time to relax on a deckchair and let the mind drift freely. Who knows – perhaps a relaxed brain will lead us to the next great discovery?

Each day in front of the University of Silesia’s Rectorate, scientists and visitors observed in real time the world’s most boring experiment – the pitch drop experiment, ongoing for nearly 100 years, where a single drop falls only once every ten years.

Psychologists explained what the mind does when left unoccupied – and the boldest among us took part in an experiment: how long can you really do nothing?

Free evenings featured walking tours of Katowice led by local guides, including the popular Katowice Mural Trail.

Culture and Tradition Week

12–18 August

Curator:

Aleksandra Achtelik, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Aleksandra Kwiatkowska (USil)

Events 33 Participants 2 000

Culture and Tradition Week provided an opportunity for an exchange of experiences between the residents of Silesia and guests to the region, especially students.

We discussed languages (How Polish Is (Un)like Chinese? On Language Typology) and their writing systems. Around Katowice’s Market Square, we set up language tables for workshops on the world’s alphabets: the history of writing systems, the evolution of scripts, and script changes in languages such as Turkish, Georgian, Korean, and South Slavic Cyrillic.

In the foyer of the Zagłębie Theatre in Sosnowiec, students from Japan, China, and Korea led Far Eastern handicraft workshops, also teaching attendees how to write their names in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.

Eco Week

19–25 August

Curator:

Ewa Brągoszewska, pPhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof. (POLSL)

Producer Ewa Głuszek, Eng. (POLSL)

Events 36 Participants 890

Eco Week was a time when we opened the doors wide to the world of ecology and sustainable development – to ensure these ideas reached all of our visitors.

We prepared workshops for children to create ‘ecotoys’ from recycled materials such as cardboard, plastic bottles, fabric, and old buttons. Adults took part in the Zero Waste Plant-Based Cooking workshops.

We also held the Sport Canmageddon – an obstacle course reflecting the 9 stages of a beverage can’s circular life cycle.

The scientific side of recycling was explored in the Hasiomaszketnik Workshops, where participants learned practical methods such as paper chromatography, flame photometry, and spectrophotometry.

Olympics Week

26 August – 1 September

Curator:

Kajetan Słomka, PhD, Assoc. Prof. (AWF)

Producer Oskar Kozikiewicz (AWF)

Events 16 Participants 1 732

What is the Olympic spirit? It is not only the determination and passion of athletes but also decades of scientific research to reach the heights of human performance.

We began with Olympics Week Opening Ceremony and the collective weaving of Olympic wreaths.

Numerous sports workshops were organised, including street breaking, gymnastics, and skateboarding.

The practical workshop Sports Biomechanics introduced participants to modern sports technique analysis: why some run faster, others jump higher, and some push harder.

On 30–31 August 2024, together with NSCA GC Poland, we held the Comprehensive Athlete Development Conference.

2–8 September

Curator:

Iwona

Gabriel, PhD, DSc (SUM)

Producer Agata Pustułka (SUM)

Events 15 Participants 200

During Cancer Week, we promoted a holistic approach to patient care: both physical and psychological well-being are essential to a person’s overall health.

Of course, the exchange of knowledge and experience was key, which is why we organised the conference ‘Diagnosis and Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers’ and the online webinar ‘Perspectives of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine’. We also held workshops for preschoolers using educational building blocks to introduce the youngest participants to the world of health and prevention.

As part of our journey through the Week of Cancer Awareness, we screened the film In the Circle of Love at the Światowid cinema.

We did not forget about reaching out to the local community with preventive activities, including the availability of mobile mammography and cytology units (mammobus and cytobus) in selected locations across the region.

Curator:

9–15 September

Grzegorz Wojnar, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. (POLSL)

Producer Mirosław Rusecki

Events 48 Participants 1 300

We launched Katowice Week with the First Scientific Conference of the World’s Top 2% Scientists. Many scholars from Katowice’s universities are honoured to be part of this distinguished group. More importantly, over 40 of them accepted our invitation and delivered lectures.

Nothing demonstrates the power of science better than its practical application. Therefore, we organised an educational trip for children, including demonstrations of techniques and technologies used by the State Fire Service, as well as simulator demonstrations for train and car driving at the Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology.

We also explored Katowice’s natural environment with Michał Książek, a reporter, forestry engineer and ornithologist, who guided us through the city. We visited the steam engine at the Bartosz Shaft of the Silesian Museum as well.

16–22 September

Curator:

Justyna Mędrala, PhD (ASP)

Producer Magdalena Palupska, Agata Cikała (ASP)

Events 54 Participants 1 238

Luck Week, held under the theme ‘Various States of Luck’, was a mosaic of experiences. During this week, we jointly sought ways to enrich our perception of the world through taste, touch, sound, sight, and the practice of mindfulness.

Workshops included breathing exercises at the Palm House in Gliwice, making ‘trees of happiness’ for children, and a Harmony of the Spheres concert featuring global instruments such as handpans, gongs, Tibetan and crystal bowls, and tuning forks.

We also addressed challenging topics. One example was the lecture ‘Lots of Happiness and Health…’ – Various States of Happiness among Concentration Camp Prisoners. A screening of Babette’s Feast was accompanied by a lecture entitled Feasting on Happiness: A Beautiful Life on a Plate.

Tourism Week

23–29 September

Curator:

Paweł

Piotrowski, PhD (UE)

Producer Angelika Gagracz (UE)

Events 12 Participants 498

The primary aim of Tourism Week was to highlight the challenges facing tourism today, both regionally and internationally.

One such challenge is the phenomenon of ‘overtourism’. Hence, the week opened with a debate entitled ‘Should We Stop Travelling?’, which focused on both the positive and negative roles of tourism in today’s world.

Broadly understood sustainable tourism was addressed during the Polish premiere screening of The Last Tourist and a conference on good practices in implementing sustainable tourism.

Regional tourism challenges were discussed at events devoted to the current and potential inclusion of sites from the Silesian Voivodeship on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and during walks highlighting the tourism potential of Gliwice’s architecture and the natural environment of Żywiec. The week concluded with a lecture and discussion on contemporary tourism challenges in Katowice.

Curator:

Dance Week

30 September – 6 October

Artur Fredyk, PhD (AWF)

Producer Agnieszka Smykla, PhD (AWF)

Events 11 Participants 1 100

The idea behind Dance Week was to present not only dance techniques through stage performances but also to explore wider contexts of dance – educational, cinematic, and medical.

We organised film screenings at the Światowid cinema: Ballerina for primary school students, and Billy Elliot and Singin’ in the Rain for secondary school students and adults.

The Dance Gala at the Youth Palace in Katowice featured university folk and dance ensembles, groups from the Youth Palace, and a performance by the Ludomir Różycki General Ballet School in Bytom.

We also discussed dance therapy and raised a difficult question: Is dance good for your health?—a panel discussion on the role of dance in rehabilitation and healthcare, and the occupational challenges faced by professional dancers.

Curator: Karina Cicha, PhD (UE)

Producer Angelika Gagracz (UE)

7–13 October

Events 64 Participants 550

One of the great questions of our time is how to navigate the overwhelming stream of information we encounter daily. During Information Week, we held workshops such as ‘The Art of Searching in the Information Maze’ and ‘The Credibility of Medical Information Found Online’.

The week also saw the launch of the e-book Cybersecure: How to Stay Safe in the Digital World?

Our aim was to present the full spectrum of information – from the biological, as encoded in DNA, food, or animal communication, to workshops on fact-checking and decoding fake news.

Students from the Journalism and Social Communication programme (specialisation: Visual Communication and Narrative Design) have created posters showcasing the process of information design in various contexts.

Curator:

Creativity Week

14–20 October

Bartłomiej Gabryś, PhD (UE)

Producer Dagmara Piskorz (UE)

Events 80 Participants 1 975

Creativity Week was an extraordinary space for developing passion and talent – full of creative energy, inspiring meetings, and unforgettable experiences.

We organised numerous creative activities: workshops in creative photography (where we ‘painted with light’), greeting card making using scrapbooking and quilling, and intergenerational sessions ‘Connected Through Creativity’. We even designed the future of Katowice using LEGO bricks. There were also emotional charades, atmospheric workshops, and scents sealed in bottles.

And since creativity can potentially be monetised, we also held lectures such as ‘We Are All Creators –ABCs of Intellectual Property’ and ‘Does This Business Idea Stand a Chance? A Brief Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Finance’. We explored the ‘Technology of Creativity’ during a lecture on evolutionary and algorithmic art, accompanied by an exhibition.

Industry 4.0 Week

21–27 October

Curator:

Anna Kiljan, Eng. (POLSL)

Producer Ewa Głuszek, Eng. (POLSL)

Events 19 Participants 515

The aim of Industry 4.0 Week was to promote innovation, education, and collaboration between science and industry.

Advanced technologies are all around us. We organised a lecture ‘Modern Technologies Supporting Medicine’ at the European HealthTech Innovation Centre (EHTIC), aimed at teachers and students, combined with a guided tour of the EHTIC laboratories.

For preschool groups, we offered the session ‘Little Hands, Big Technologies: A Robotic Adventure’.

There was also the ‘Industry 4.0 for ROW 2.0’ conference. Organised in cooperation with the Rybnik City Council, the Technical School Complex in Rybnik, and APA Group, the event focused on the future of the Rybnik Hydrogen District.

Curators:

Witches Week

28 October – 3 November

Prof. Eng. Sławomir Boncel (POLSL)

Curator:

Game Week

4–10 November

Michał Kłosiński, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Aneta Knapik, Weronika Cygan-Adamczyk (USil)

Agata Blacha-Grzechnik, PhD, DSc, Eng. Assoc. Prof. (POLSL)

Producer Aleksandra Nyga, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Events 40 Participants 735

The goal of Witches Week was to present modern chemistry through activities and conversations with ‘enchanting’ scientists from Silesia, Poland, and around the world.

We began with ‘Potion Lessons at Hogwarts’, where pupils had the chance to create potions with interesting properties. There were also workshops for teachers and secondary school leavers titled ‘Demystifying the Chemistry Matura Exam’, and sessions for high school students on ‘From the Kerosene Lamp to the Ultraviolet Ray’.

Naturally, we didn’t forget tales about witches—both the famous and the lesser known. Witchcraft Week concluded with a family scavenger hunt ‘In the World of Alchemy’, where participants, navigating the Silesian University of Technology campus, had to face a range of magical challenges.

Events 46 Participants 710

During Game Week, we aimed to showcase the true richness of the world of games – from pure entertainment, through game studies seminars, to professional training simulators.

We organised the National Game Studies Congress, where student game studies societies met and discussed research methodologies and the prospects of the Polish video game market.

An open RPG session entitled ‘Overmind’ was held with the participation of University of Silesia staff, led by Michał Ciastoń / Solveig.

We conducted medical rescue classes using the VR simulator ‘Trige’, as well as surgical training sessions with the VR simulator ‘Surgical Tools’. Participants had the chance to practise basic surgical techniques and teamwork in a medical setting using virtual reality surgical instruments.

11–17 November

Curator:

Aldona Rosner, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Producer Dorota Huget (POLSL)

Events 40 Participants 2 840

The aim of Robot Week is to show their applications in various industries and in service of humans.

A debate featured representatives from the military, local government, academia, and the Mountain Volunteer Search and Rescue (GOPR).

There was also a robotics tournament for primary schools titled ‘Robotic Exploration of SPACE’, combined with tours of the robotics laboratories at the Silesian University of Technology.

A two-day international conference was held: ‘RoboServe – Robots in the Service of Man’.

The weekend saw the Robot Festival, featuring among others: educational robot demo stations, a Virtual Dental Office, and edScape – a ‘Medical Escape Room’ in virtual reality.

Curator:

18–24 November

Edyta Sierka, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Weronika Cygan-Adamczyk (USil)

Events 46 Participants 1 246

In recent years, climate change has been ever-present in the headlines. During Climate Week, we also wanted to talk about how to talk about climate.

One such event was the workshop ‘Climate Change or a Changing Climate – How to Talk about Climate?’, where participants learned to manage emotions and knowledge effectively in dialogue.

Alongside educational events (such as the lecture ‘Climate Myths and Facts’ or the Climate Knowledge Test ‘A Moment for the Climate! Time to Reflect!’), we tried to go beyond initial associations with the topic of climate change. This included events like the ‘Haiku Workshop – Poetry for the Earth’ and the curling-themed session ‘From Tap Water to Olympic Rings’.

The week concluded with a weekend tree-planting action under the slogan ‘Plant a Tree for the Climate’.

24 November – 1 December

Curator:

Michał Jurczyk, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Producer Krzysztof Rusin, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Events 43 Participants 1 043

Energy Week was devoted to various aspects of energy production and storage.

In the popular science section, we addressed all the scales on which science discusses energy: from a single living cell (‘Mitochondria – Cellular Power Plants’), through the whole organism (‘A Calorie is Not a Calorie’ – on energy balance), to the entire Universe (‘Is the Total Energy of the Universe Exactly Zero?’).

There was considerable interest in topics related to energy systems. We organised, among other things, the second International Academic Conference ‘Energy Justice & Energy Transition’, as well as a three-part seminar dedicated to the energy transition.

Improvisation Week

2–8 December

Curator: Tomasz Bielak, PhD, DLitt Assoc. Prof. (USil)

Producer Anna Szrama (USil)

Events 35 Participants 500

Is improvisation a lack of planning and clear goals? Or is it rather an action that allows us to better understand our own needs and enhance the role of soft skills in design?

During Improvisation Week, our guests had the opportunity for free creation and expression. In the ‘Improvisation with LEGO’ workshop, children designed vehicles that had to meet specific design requirements.

In the futurological workshop ‘Imagining the Future’, we encouraged young people to build their own narratives and visualise future worlds with their infrastructure and inhabitants.

There was no shortage of musical, literary, graphic and even film improvisation, guided by: Prof. Joanna Dembińska-Pawelec, Prof. Dariusz Ziora, Prof. Marcin Trzęsiok, Prof. Marcin Koszałka and Magdalena Nazarkiewicz, PhD.

The week was crowned with a concert by Ariana Savall, Petter Udland Johansen and the Hirundo Maris Ensemble.

Curator:

Human Week

9–15 December

Robert Wolny, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. (UE)

Producer Dagmara Piskorz (UE)

Events 50 Participants 1 660

Human Week was a time of reflection, emotion and encounters – from lectures, theatre performances and workshops to artistic activities. We considered whether humans are (non-)ecological, whether the digital future has a human face, and discussed human relationships with AI. We asked whether humans are rational consumers. We also took care of body and mind – in breathing and relaxation workshops and during health-focused meetings.

The University of Economics in Katowice Theatre premiered the play ‘OUR Corporation’, and the National ‘Stary’ Theatre presented the performance ‘Solaris’. Exhibitions, field games, workshops, scent and flavour creation, building humans from LEGO, and meetings with extraordinary guests – all this to show that the human being is not only a body and mind, but also emotions, relationships and imagination, and that at the centre of all major themes – technology, health, education, and culture – there is always the human. As part of Human Week, on 14 December 2024, two performances of the opera Solaris, composed by Karol Nepelski and based on the novel by Stanisław Lem, directed by Waldemar Raźniak and produced by the National ‘Stary’ Theatre in Kraków, were held at the Szyb Wilson Gallery.

Curator:

16–22 December

Tomasz Pawlik, PhD, Eng. (POLSL)

Producer Hanna Biela

Events 35 Participants 1 851

During Materials Week, we explored a wide range of topics related to broadly understood material research – not only engineering and structural materials.

For those interested in modern manufacturing techniques, we organised the lecture Exploring the Potentials of Modern Materials in Realising Sustainable Additive Manufacturing, delivered by Hirpa Lemu, PhD from Norway.

The workshop ‘Wicker – A Material with a Soul’ was also very popular: not only a chance to gain new skills but also a moment of relaxation and creative development.

On 18 December, students of Materials Engineering faced the ‘rest of the world’ in an exciting charity volleyball match held in support of the Cordis Hospice.

Defining Shared Programme Foundations

Developing Internal Guidelines

Academic Consortium –Katowice City of Science

214 academic initiatives City – Region – Academia

City of Katowice

Formation of Internal Committees and Call for Proposals

city initiatives

25 initiatives selected through an open call for proposals for municipal grants supporting projects in science, higher education, and learning, as part of the ‘European City of Science Katowice 2024’ programme.

Sposób tworzenia programu Miasto-Region-Akademia

CITY – REGION – ACADEMIA ↳ 246 initiatives in 28 cities

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

The second, year-round ECSK programme focused on cyclical and new scientific, popular science, artistic, sports and educational events, initiated by the academic community or non-profit organisations. Throughout the year, 246 such events were held in 28 cities across the region. For each of them, the organisers had to show how it aligns with the ECSK programme, fulfills the rules contained in the “Rules of Cooperation,” scientific cooperation guidelines, and environmental criteria. Additionally, they were obliged to establish partnerships with foreign academic institutions, invite international speakers, and ensure access to specialised events for all audience groups (by making admittance free, live transmissions and accounting for special needs).

Guests invited into the City-Region-Academia programme included, among others: Prof. Leszek Balcerowicz, Prof. Jerzy Buzek, Prof. Adam Bodnar, Prof. Jan Knopf (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology KIT), Prof. Hans Helmut Lüger (Universität Koblenz-Landau), Prof. Jürgen Hillesheim (Universität Augsburg), Prof. José Gabriel de Oliveira Andrade Junior (Universidade do Minho), Prof. Marta Martín Llaguno (Universidad de Alicante), Prof. Miloš Gregor (Masarykova Univerzita), Prof. Chiara Manfrin (University of Trieste); Artur Sokolovsky,

PhD (University of Adelaide – Australia), Ewa Grassin, PhD (Harvard Medical School), Mansour Kouyate, PhD (Sorbonne Universite), Raimundas Baublys, PhD (Vytautas Magnus University of Kaunas).

Among the institutions cooperating with the organisers in the City-Region-Academia stream, we can count: Polish Fencing Federation, Vytautas Magnus University of Kaunas, University of Trieste, Northeastern University, Silesian Philharmonic, European Polar Board, Silesian Museum, Racibórz Special Education School for Deaf or Partially Deaf Youth, Internationaler Verband fur Schwerhorige Seelsorge, Palacky University in Olomouc, British Accounting & Finance Association, Polish Mathematical Society, J. Śniegoń Wisła Public Library and many others. This resulted in many scientific and artistic projects, which aided in the popularisation of science and integration of the academic community with citizens. The programme enabled long-reaching and high-value initiatives. In the course of the stream, many publications on various subjects were created – from children’s books, through strictly scientific works to reports from exhibitions. The outcomes achieved during these events will serve not only the residents of the region for many years to come, but also the scientific, sports, and artistic communities.

Certainly, a lot of the events organised in the City-RegionAcademia stream will become cyclical, sustaining the engagement of various social groups and local communities in the idea of the City of Science.

HOW WAS THE CITY-REGION-ACADEMIA PROGRAMME BUILT?

In contrast to the 50 Weeks programme, drawn up for the citizens of the City of Science, the City-Region-Academia programme was to satisfy first and foremost the needs of the academic community. It enabled the implementation of both cyclical and new scientific, educational, artistic, and sports initiatives initiated by employees, students and PhD students of all universities. The programme was coordinated simultaneously on 7 universities in accordance to unilaterally accepted basic rules and regulations separate for each university, which governed, among others, the formation of the CRA programme committee. The second branch was the municipal programme of CRA, in which non-profit organisations initiatives chosen in a competition were supported, provided that they fulfilled the assumptions of the City of Science programme. Rating and financing of competition entries was done by a committee created for this purpose. The basic rules of realisation

were delineated in the “Guidelines for Cooperation” document that regulated the status of the event, the ability to cooperate and procedures for acquiring ECSK patronage.

MUNICIPAL INITIATIVES

On 3 January 2024, the Mayor of Katowice appointed, by the Ordinance No. 3771/2024, the Committee for the Evaluation of Applications for the Organisation of Events and Initiatives as part of the ECSK 2024. On the ECSK 2024 page, rules for cooperation with potential external partners were published. In the course of a year, the Committee gave positive rulings for 52 patronage applications, of which 32 initiatives were allotted Municipal funds. Additionally, the City of Katowice organised two editions of an open call for proposals to award grants to aid in implementing initiatives in the area of “science, education, upbringing and higher education” under the title “European City of Science Katowice 2024”. .

TEACHERS FOR TEACHERS PROGRAMME

↳ 252 participants of 6 academies

The “Teachers for Teachers” programme was an innovative initiative aiming to integrate teachers from higher, secondary and primary schools. The programme was to create a space for exchange of thoughts and experiences, which lead to development of innovative teaching methods and inspiring the professional growth of participants.

The programme was conducted by higher education institutions belonging to the Academic Consortium as well as primary and secondary schools from the region. Owing to that, it was possible to have a broader view of the teaching process and best practices.

For further integration of teachers, the TEACHER’S CLUB was established, which operates from the spinPLACE Centre for Creativity and Coworking in Katowice, located at ul. Bankowa 5. The club’s activities will consist in cyclical meetings, providing teachers with a place for conversation, analysis as well as exchange of knowledge and thoughts.

HOW WAS THE TEACHERS FOR TEACHERS PROGRAMME BUILT?

Before the programme began, a needs assessment had been carried out, which helped determine student expectations of current students. Based on these analyses, six thematic academies were created, corresponding to the paths of the European City of Science 2024: Health and Quality of Life; Climate and Environment; Industries of the Future; Social Innovation; Industrial and Cultural Heritage; Creation and Criticism. Each academy had its own thematic week, in which lectures, workshops and science shows took place, which were to raise the competence of teachers in the given area.

A publication "SCIENCE INSPIRES!" containing lesson plans aligned with the themes of the 50 Weeks of ECSK was also created. The goal of this publication is to support teachers in their educational work.

SCIENCE INSPIRES: SUPPORTING MATERIALS FOR TEACHERS

YOUTH IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE PROGRAMME ↳ 10 initiatives for better studies

10 INITIATIVES FOR BETTER STUDIES

In the programme created by the Youth Council:

YOUTH PROGRAMME

Rawa Cooltury – open-air cultural events organised by the river Rawa in Katowice. Young, local artists and bands took part in concerts, incorporating a multitude of genres, such as rock, jazz, folk, pop or electronic music. The main goal of Concerts by Rawa was livening the urban space while promoting culture and the arts in the region. A key aspect was the integration of the local community through taking part in cultural events. The open-air concerts at the riverbank was an interesting proposition for citizens and tourists, creating an inspiring space to spend time outdoors, accompanied by music. The events showed that the younger generation thinks in global terms and engages in creating a cultural space for the entirety of society. 24 solo artists and bands (over 50 artists altogether) took part in 6 concerts.

The Cyclical Art Exhibitions are a series of cultural events held in Katowice, enabling young artists to present their work and promoting various forms of artistic creativity. In the end, four exhibitions were organised in various spaces in the city, including the city's open spaces, i.e. Plac Kwiatowy on the Main Square. The aim of the project was to promote art and culture among the people of the Metropolis, increasing the visibility of young artists. The implementation of the project was an important element in enriching the city's cultural offer. The project was carried out under the supervision of the Visual Information Studio of the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice.

Around Science – a series of 8 meetings, debates and workshops for participants of the Consortium's student research groups on current issues in science, technology, sport and gaming Experts and enthusiasts discussed functional diagnostics in sport, toxic behaviour in online games, the future of e-sports in the region, and cryptocurrencies, among other topics. Participants were also able to take part in a photography workshop and an classes on creating educational games. It was all concluded by meetings on the role of science in pop-culture and student life in the City of Science. The cycle was concluded by a set of recommendations possible to implement in the universities of the City of Science.

The Grant Programme: Science for Young People –inter-university and intergenerational grant programme of the ECSK Consortium in which doctoral students from the Consortium were invited to serve as project managers, the project executors were students, and scientific supervisors were researchers with doctoral or higher titles. As part of the project, 9 grants with over 90 workers were realised, and their results were presented to the public on a special session of the 8th Silesian Science Festival Katowice.

The projects implemented:

�� The uses of “green solvents” in sintering metals through MFDM – led by a doctoral student of the Silesian University of Technology

�� MULTU-HYDRO – led by a doctoral student of the Silesian University of Technology

�� Silesian Opinion Leaders, the Unofficial Silesian Representation - led by a doctoral student of University of Silesia

�� SmartFoot: an economical and robust solution for podiatric measuring mats with electronic measuring system and data archiving capability - led by a doctoral student from the Silesian University of Technology

�� Grip Strength: A Secret Indicator of Health at Each Stage of Life – led by doctoral students of the Silesian University of Technology

�� How to ask about income without asking directly? –the problems in measuring the material situation of households – led by a doctoral student of the University of Economics in Katowice

�� Come, paint my world green... Responsible investment in social assets - an analysis of investment capability and investor stances – led by a doctoral student of the University of Economics in Katowice

�� Heat battery made from mine waste products –led by a doctoral student of the Silesian University of Technology

�� From Candidature to a Mandate: an Investigation into Successful City Council Election Campaigns – led by a doctoral student of the University of Silesia

Student Research Grants of the European City of Science – to support academic talent and promote innovation among the University of Silesia students, the Student Research Grant Programme of the European City of Science was established. Students working under academic teachers were able to make their own projects and at the same time improve their research, analysis and communication skills.

Students projects were realised in 6 fields aligned with the 6 paths of the City of Science and could be implemented individually or in groups (up to 5 members). From among 45 applications, the review committee chose 24 student projects to be realised (16 individual and 8 group projects).

The grants included scientific research and artistic activity. Some of them had an educational approach and focused on solving environmental problems; research field trips were also a frequent element (e.g. to Italy, Germany, Spain). Students also conducted laboratory research as well as social studies. In order to popularise the grant results, students took part in international conferences and symposiums. Part of the grant beneficiaries plan to incorporate research done under the programme in their diploma theses.

Student Participatory Budget – Students and doctoral students of the University of Silesia were able to acquire funding for initiatives aiming to improve the study experience in their units through the Student Participatory Budget. Applicants had to obtain support from the student or doctoral community, depending on the relevant unit.

Out of 14 applications, 12 were given funding. The funds were primarily used for the development of smallscale infrastructure, community integration activities, improving the accessibility of shared academic spaces, and arranging these spaces in a way that better meets the needs of students.

At several faculties, zones for spending time together were created, perfectly reflecting the purpose expressed in the title of one of the proposals: “space 4P – for people, a place where they can come, talk, read and play.” In three cases, spaces where students can use kitchen appliances such as a microwave, coffee machine, or kettle were created. Under the Student Participatory Budget, at one of the faculties a festival “With people. About sense, fulfillment, wellbeing” took place. At a different faculty, a “student library” was created, and at yet another, a place for boardgames.

European City of Students – a project the aim of which was to find out what Katowice students want. The work involved mapping the problems and then designing solutions to make Katowice a more student-friendly city. The needs of youth living in Silesia. Today and tomorrow (youth policy of the City of Science) – the project was to aggregate data allowing for a better understanding of the needs of the young citizens of Silesia and indicate areas vital from the perspective of young people. The results are a basis for implementing programmes and solutions particularly important for young people – the most important stakeholders in the face of a declining birth rate, negative natural population growth, and negative net migration. The research was conducted with use of the CAWI method.

Workshop for Early Career Researchers with EURODOC – workshops organised by EURODOC representatives together with the Young People's Council, the National Representatives of Doctoral Students, the University Council of Doctoral Student Governments of the University of Silesia and the Medical University of Silesia.

Ideathon 2024 was a unique all-night event that brought together young enthusiasts of science, technology and education. It focused on developing innovative educational games concepts. The participants, working in groups of 3 to 5, faced the challenge of developing a concept for a game to assist the education process. In the intense sessions, they developed their skills for project management, teamwork and creative thinking. The event was coordinated by experts sharing their knowledge and experience, inspiring the young creatives to seek innovative solutions.

Dance Party – The Dance Party became not only an occasion for entertainment with music, but also to strengthen social bonds. It gave residents a chance to take a break from their daily responsibilities, foster intergenerational integration, and experience a sense of community. It was an event fostering local identity and a space in which everybody could feel a part of the cultural life of the city. About 60 people took part in the Dance Party.

European City of Science celebrations will long be remembered as a year of possibilities, a multitude of events and new passions. The Youth Council for the City of Science made a significant contribution by organising many cultural and scientific events. At each of which we could meet young people interested in the topics of the projects. The conclusion which can be drawn from CSK 2024 is that both the region and the younger generation need initiatives of this kind, and the legacy of the City of Science is something we can be proud of on the international stage.

Maciej Geratowski Chair of the Youth Parliament of the Silesian Voivodeship

KATO SCIENCE CORNER

↳ The new point on the map of Katowice drew in nearly 10000 participants

To support the implementation of the celebration programme, a unique place was created on the map of Katowice, in a townhouse on the corner of Pocztowa and Młyńska streets. It was a space dedicated to popularising science, and to the ideas of ECSK, as well as a creative approach to the city (Metrolab GZM).

Launched in September 2023, Kato Science Corner serves, among other things, as an information point for ECSK, a place for inspiring meetings, discussions and creative brainstorming in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Kato Science Corner is also the home of Metrolab, where everyone has the opportunity to share their idea for the city, propose changes or new services, try to implement and test them. Funded by the City of Katowice and the GZM, the project involves the preparation of a calendar of meetings, lectures, workshops and presentations introducing the subject of the City of Science and communicating science. It is based on the programme assumptions of the EMNK and the GZM Metrolab. Starting from October 2023, all the universities that are part of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science held popular science events and meetings at the venue, with the University of Economics being responsible for coordinating these activities. Both attractive and functional, the point is open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will be functioning until June 2025.

The original artwork on one of the walls of the KSC was prepared by Gosia Kulik – a well-known graphic designer and painter, creator of illustrations, graphic novels, comic books and posters, graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice.

Guests invited to the Science Corner programme include, among others: Agata Kiedrowicz, Bartosz Minkiewicz, Filip Springer, Jarosław Juszkiewicz, Michał Chojecki, Rafał Julian Kordeusz, Wiktor Niedzicki, Charles Landry.

Beside the universities of the Consortium, the institutions taking part in the KSC include, among others: The Zimbardo Centre in Nikiszowiec, the Katowice Branch of the Polish Sociological Association, the Young Explorer's Club, the Polish Association of German Language Teachers, the Wojciech Korfanty Regional Cultural Institute, the Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Innovative Techniques EMAG Katowice, the Statistical Office in Katowice.

Our entire region has been characterised for many decades by a certain modern spirit—a forward-looking attitude and a focus on innovation. All of those certainly wouldn’t have been possible without science. Science and education is the future for all of us.

Waldemar Bojarun, Vice-Mayor of the City of Katowice

EUROPEAN CONTESTS

National Eliminations

Finalists from 37 EU Countries

International Finals

Project Presentations Interviews with the Jury

Selection of Winners

EUCYS 2024

EUROPEAN UNION CONTEST FOR YOUNG SCIENTISTS

↳

143 young scientists from 37 countries

ABOUT THE CONTEST

The prestigious initiative of the European Commission –the EUCYS competition, which supports the scientific development of young people, was held in 2024 in the City of Science. In August, the international finals of the European Union Contest for Young Scientists was organised in cooperation with the Polish Children's Fund in the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra building.

The finals of the contest takes place in a different country each year, which allows young people to experience cultural differences while engaging in their scientific endeavours. During the international finals, participants also have the opportunity to meet world-renowned experts – in Katowice it was Prof. Andrzej Dragan, and the coordinator was Tomasz Rożek, PhD. In Katowice, the jury deciding on the winning projects consisted of 21 specialists in different scientific fields and from different countries. 143 finalists of the national preliminaries came to Poland – young scientists from 37 countries in Europe and the world. It was an opportunity for them to compete in the presentation of research projects in the natural sciences, mathematics, technology, economics and social sciences, among others. Participants had the opportunity to see prototype solutions and research projects on a wide variety of topics, including innovative systems to support beekeeping, the use of bacteriophages to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria, new therapies for treating brain glioma, an intelligent table to support the blind, microbricks recycled from cigarette butts, language inheritance or functional ear prostheses.

EUCYS Organisation

Europe’s Brightest Young Researchers Find Inspiration in the European City of Science

The Finals of Europe’s Most Prestigious Contest for Young Scientists

Held in Poland for the Second Time

Thirty-three winners were selected, who, in addition to 13 financial prizes ranging from €2,500 to €7,000, received special prizes in the form of research internships and visits to prestigious research centres around the world. Among the winners, taking first prize, was Piotr Olbryś representing Poland, with his project: Design of new pyrene-4,5,9,10-tetraonebased heterocyclic derivatives as high capacity organic cathode materials: a density functional theory study.

The local prize, funded by the Medical University of Silesia, was awarded to a second participant from Poland –Aleksander Zieliński for his project: Impact of the ability to block the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases with newly designed Fab domains of anti-Baff, anti-April antibodies.

The many partners of the Contest, who handed out special awards along with the European Commission, included: European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN), European Space Agency (ESA), World Expo 2025 Osaka, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble (ESRF), European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), European Southern Observatory (ESO). The Academic Consortium also awarded the participants, inviting them to further cooperate and study in the City of Science.

HISTORY AND GOALS

EUCYS dates back to 1968, when the Dutch company Royal Philips organised its first edition. In 1989 the initiative was taken over by the European Commission, and has consequently been rewarding the most talented young scientists from all over the world. Poland has been taking place in the contests since 1995 – so far 67 projects from our country have been rewarded, with 29 main and 38 special, honorary and additional rewards. Katowice are the second (after Warsaw in 2014) Polish city which had the pleasure of being chosen to organise the finals of the European Union Contest for Young Scientists.

The main aim of the contest is to support and make young people interested in scientific development. The event provides an ideal space to seek out world-class talent whose discoveries can have a real impact on advancing science or solving global problems. Since its inception, many ground-breaking works were showcased during the contest with the potential to have a positive impact on the world. EUCYS represents an indispensable chance for students to further their scientific skills.

COMPLETE LIST OF RESEARCH PROJECTS PRESENTED IN POLAND

COMPLETE LIST OF LAUREATESA

Europe is in good hands with these students

Karen Slavin, former Policy Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

For me, what was the most interesting was probably kind of the story of the city because in the beginning it was industrial, a mine type of city. And then the fact that they transitioned into science city. I was amazed by how friendly people are here, not only the participants but also the locals here.

David Davidian Ii, Armenia, EUCYS 2024 participant, author of the project: Metallic Combat: Paving the Way for Pure Water Flow

Nie martwię się o przyszłość ludzkości i planety, gdy patrzę na zaangażowanych i pomysłowych młodych ludzi. Eucys to jedna z tych inicjatyw, która ich zbiera i pozwala „się policzyć”. Bycie ambasadorem takiej inicjatywy to ogromna przyjemność i zobowiązanie.

Tomasz Rożek, PhD EUCYS 2024 ambassador

We want to empower researchers to become creators of knowledge, but also to become innovators. We recognise the enormous potential of the European research community. We don’t want the ideas to stay only on paper or in the laboratory. We want to see these ideas become solutions that impact both our economies or competitiveness, but also our environments.

Slaven Misljencevic

Policy Officer

at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

EU TALENTON KATOWICE 2024

EUROPEAN UNION CONTEST FOR EARLY-CAREER RESEARCHERS

↳ 1270 applications/ 108 participants / 38 countries / 25

innovative solutions

ABOUT THE CONTEST

EU TalentOn is the European Commission's new competition challenging young scientists to create an innovative project in teams, contributing to the solution of a chosen problem in line with the themes of the European missions. Over the course of a 5-day scientific marathon, young scientists, with specialist support, seek solutions to some of the most important problems in the world today.

In the European City of Science 2024, we had the opportunity to organise the second (after Leiden in 2022) edition of the competition. In September, Katowice hosted 108 of the most promising young scientists from 38 European countries. The participants developed real life-saving solutions in international teams.

For five intensive days, the participants, selected from more than 1,270 entries from around the world, worked in teams of four, tackling challenges within five key European mission areas:

�� Adaptation to Climate Change,

�� Cancer Prevention and Care,

�� Restore our Ocean and Waters,

�� Developing Smart Cities,

�� Restoring Soil Fertility.

The proposed concepts were evaluated several times by an international jury, including 23 experts from various scientific fields, members of the European Commission, as well as the winners and organisers of the first edition of the Competition and representatives of European business. The projects were also evaluated in public during a so-called public pitches evening, where the practicality, presentation and feasibility of the proposed solutions were assessed. During the public pitches, the audience award of €3,000 went to the H2FAST team, which developed an innovative, self-sustaining installation powered by solar and wind energy to mitigate the effects of extreme weather and increase the resilience of energy infrastructure.

The grand prize of €12,000 was won by the team Breath for Life for its breakthrough solution in the field of early cancer detection. The innovativeness, potential, and success of their idea impressed the jury and audience immensely.

Team Introductions – Online (25 teams)

Participant Recruitment (108 selected from 1,270 applications from 38 countries) Winners –€75,000 in Prize Money

Competition Finals in Katowice

ORGANISATION OF THE CONTEST EU TALENTON

Out of each mission arena, the best project was chosen based on ratings by the jury. Awards ranging from 4 500 to 12 000 euro were given out to winners, to help in developing the concept or establishing a start-up under the stewardship of the European Commission. All winning projects in the mission arenas represented a world-class level and were highly applicable e.g.:

�� the H2FAST team had developed a system improving the resistance of energy infrastructure to extreme weather conditions,

�� the WhaleTrail team had developed a formula for whales, which would improve the state of oceanic ecosystems,

�� the E(CO) mining team – inspired by our region, had shown how old mines may become a heat source for cities,

�� the ReviSoil team had proposed an ecological solution for improving soil fertility with biological waste.

An additional award from experts was the Alumni Award, allowing one to enter the 8th Silesian Science Festival Katowice and to take part in a course on science communication.

The organisation of such a prestigious contest was a chance to show the potential of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science, and for Katowice itself as a developing academic and scientific centre. A city which has been going through a period of dynamic transformation in recent years is reinforcing its position in Poland and Europe.

Young talents meeting each other for the first time in person and then in their teams, during breaks –in this lays the crazy idea. Perhaps the solution for the future, for the most important point, is that they get more skills around the talents, and they know how to use them properly.

Lucien Geelhoed

Intendant for Leiden’s European City of Science 2022 and Intendant of EU TalentOn Leiden 2022

The greatest pleasure during the finals for me was walking between the participants engaged in their work and talking to them. Never have I experienced such a concentration of talent, knowledge, energy and wonderfulness per square meter in my life!

Łukasz Lamża

Research coordinator and Mission Navigator EU TalentOn

What we wanted to develop and what we thought about in the past few days is to create an easier device to do early-detection cancer screening. We started with lung cancer because it is the type of cancer that is usually detected very late and because of its late detection, only 5% of patients survive. With our device we want to enable large population screening so people can be screened regularly and discover whether they have lung cancer in an early stage.

Anneke Kastelein

Member of the victorious team Breath for life

FAMELAB POLAND

↳ Domestic finals of the largest international science communication competition

ABOUT THE COMPETITION

FameLab is the world's largest science communication competition licensed by Cheltenham Festivals, which after a break of several years returned to the Polish arena at the European City of Science. The idea of the competition is to present complex scientific issues in an understandable way – participants are asked to present a scientific concept in just 3 minutes. The competition is aimed at young scientists and PhD students (up to 35 years of age), who, as part of their preparation for the final, also receive communication training conducted by an international group of science popularizers. In 2011-2021, the Polish edition of the competition was co-organised by the Copernicus Science Centre and the British Council.

The task of the competition finalists is to present a scientific topic of their choice to the jury and the audience within three minutes. The use of multimedia presentations is prohibited – only the participant and his/her ability to fascinate others with his/her scientific passion is what matters on the FameLab stage.

FAMELAB POLAND – THE NATIONAL FINAL OF THE COMPETITION

The final of the Polish edition of the competition in 2024 took place on 4 June in the spinPLACE building of the University of Silesia. Twelve participants from all over Poland took part in the competition, having been selected from among 25 semi-finalists.

By decision of the Competition Committee, the winners of the competition were:

→ 1st place: Marcelina Jureczko, PhD, Eng. from the Silesian University of Technology (topic: Fungi – Avengers who wear caps instead of superhero capes),

→ 2nd place: Emilie Szwajnoch from the University of Silesia in Katowice (topic: The Chinese Social Credit System – a myth that lives on),

→ 3rd place: Bartosz Szóstak from the University of Silesia in Katowice – (topic: AI technology in electrical power and energy systems).

FameLab was created over 20 years ago to teach scientists how to talk about their research. Participants are assessed on three categories: content of the speech, clarity of the message, and charisma (the so-called 3C rule – content, clarity, charisma).

Marike Navin, PhD

Programme Director of the Cheltenham Science Festival, Coordinator of FameLab International

The winners of the national final received financial prizes of 6,000 PLN (1st place), 4,000 PLN (2nd place) and 2,000 PLN (3rd place).

The finalists were assessed by a professional jury composed of scientists and science communication specialists:

�� Bartłomiej Gabryś, PhD (University of Economics in Katowice),

�� Prof. Zbigniew Nawrat (Medical University of Silesia),

�� David Price (EUSEA, Science Made Simple UK),

�� Prof. Agnieszka Turska-Kawa (University of Silesia in Katowice),

�� Prof. Aleksandra Ziembińska-Buczyńska (Silesian University of Technology).

ABOUT THE COMPETITION

FameLab is a combination of passion and extremely important scientific topics that are changing the world. For over two hours we talked about science in a simple and very interesting way.

Prof. Agnieszka Turska-Kawa Vice-Rector for Science of the University of Silesia, Chairman of the Jury of FameLab Poland

FAMELAB INTERNATIONAL –INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION FINAL

On 29 November 2024, the best aspiring science communicators from around the world competed in the international finals of FameLab International. Representatives from 8 countries took part in the final competition: Australia, Czechia, Germany, Republic of South Africa, Switzerland, Great Britain, Italy and Poland.

Our country was represented by Marcelina Jureczko, PhD, Eng. from the Silesian University of Technologywinner of FameLab Poland. In her speech, she talked about fungi that can fight cancer cells and prevent their development.

The winner of the competition was the representative of Switzerland, Sivaniya Subramaniapillai, who, as part of the main prize, later performed at the 8th Silesian Science Festival Katowice as a special guest.

Three Minute Thesis® (3MT®) is a global science communication competition licensed by The University of Queensland in Australia. The participants' goal is to present the topic of their doctoral thesis in the most accessible way possible for a wide audience in just 3 minutes! Doctoral students of all scientific disciplines can enter the competition. This is, therefore, a great opportunity to introduce scientific issues to the public, as well as to present the activities of Silesian universities and encourage them to study various fields. By participating in 3MT®, young scientists, who are the driving force of Polish science, have the opportunity to present their ideas and discoveries and to develop their communication and popularisation skills. In addition to training their communication skills and popularising their research, participants have the opportunity to win attractive prizes.

FINALS IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE

22 PhD students took part in the competition eliminations held at the Silesian University of Technology, of whom 10 qualified for the finals.

The Silesian edition of the Three Minute Thesis® competition is an opportunity for participants (PhD students from Silesian universities) to develop skills in the field of science popularisation and scientific communication, and in particular to reach a wide audience and convey scientific content to them in a clear and transparent way. The finals are attended by non-academic audiences who gain knowledge about various fields of science.

STRATEGIC EVENTS OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE

KATOPOLIS – THE OPENING SPECTACLE OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE 2024

↳ Over 150 artists on the Spodek stage for science

The celebration year was inaugurated on 9 December 2023 with “KATOPOLIS” science and music show during the opening weekend of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 in the Spodek Arena. In the Spodek Arena in Katowice, the opening of the gates of the City of Science was celebrated by nearly 8,000 participants, and over 150 artists and performers appeared on stage. During the show, the audience could learn about the history of Silesian science, the Silesian industrial heritage that influenced the

academic development of key cities, and meet the most outstanding scientists from this region.

The substantive aspect of the show was developed by the rectors of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science, and its production was handled by a team consisting of: Miłosz “Miuosh” Borycki (artistic director), Zbigniew Rokita (script author, in cooperation with Prof. Ryszard Koziołek), Jan P. Matuszyński (multimedia director) and Mateusz Znaniecki (producer).

The invited artists included: Dawid Tyszkowski, Julia Pietrucha, Natalia Grosiak, Natalia Schroeder, Igo, Piotr Rogucki and Mela Koteluk. The show also featured actors and actresses from Silesian theatres: Grażyna Bułka, Marcin Gaweł, Barbara Lubos, Izabela Malik, Mirosław Neinert, Wiesław Sławik and Robert Talarczyk. The event was graced by the academic choirs: University of Silesia „Harmonia” Choir, Choir of the University of Economics in Katowice, Choir of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice and Choir of the Silesian University of

Technology. The artists, under the direction of Jan Stokłosa, jointly performed arrangements of well-known pieces referring to the thematic paths of the City of Science.

The show was opened by Prof. Mike Berners-Lee, a world-renowned expert in the field of sustainable development and climate change, including carbon dioxide emission rates. In his short speech, Prof. Berners-Lee spoke about the role of science in the face of contemporary challenges, including the climate crisis, threats to biodiversity and pollution, and the need to combine the efforts of science with economics, politics and art to combat these threats.

The visitors to Spodek in Katowice could also see actors from the Silesian Theatre, who during the show briefly introduced the profiles of famous people associated with our region. The names mentioned included, among others, Prof. Zbigniew Religa, Prof. Jolanta WadowskaKról and Prof. Bożena Hager-Małecka. Statements were also played, including those by rectors of the Academic Consortium and local government officials, in response to jokingly formulated questions regarding various plans for the European City of Science Katowice 2024. The ceremony was hosted from the audience by the director of the Silesian Theatre, Robert Talarczyk, and Mirosław Neinert, the head of the Korez Theatre. Among other things, they talked about Katowice, concluding that it was a city where people always came to see what the future would look like.

The income from ticket sales was donated to support the development of youth in the Silesian Voivodeship as part of the National Children's Fund programme in cooperation with the European City of Science.

With this wonderful musical performance we kick off the celebrations of the European City of Science. I'm very proud of this. I would like to thank all the rectors of our Silesian universities. It is thanks to their enthusiasm and determination that we can celebrate the beginning of the academic year together today. It is an honour for me to lead a city that is, through and through, an academic city. Seven public universities that educate future managers, doctors, engineers and many other professions. They educate the people who will fill our city, our metropolis.

Marcin Krupa, PhD Mayor of the City of Katowice

READ THE ARTICLE: KATOPOLIS SPECTACLE

It is wonderful to be back in Katowice and at this amazing science festival. As you go around the Festival and enjoy the spectacle we’re going to have tonight, I encourage you to take a perspective on it and consider the context in which this Festival is taking place. Humanity is facing an incredibly important moment in our history. We need the best science and technology more than ever – to leave fossil fuels in the ground, to develop renewable energy sources, to combat global health threats, and to transform agriculture. Science also needs people – people like everyone in this room – to help us all wake up and do the big transition that we need.

Prof. Mike Berners-Lee Lancaster University

We want to combine the show with a story that is also meant to remain with people. This is supposed to be a show that tells the story of Silesia, of Katowice, of the Silesian science scene to people who will come here from all over the world..

Miuosh

artistic director of the show, rapper and music producer

SEE WHAT THE KATOPOLIS SPECTACLE LOOKED LIKE

ECSK OPENING WEEKEND

↳ The gates of the City of Science were opened for the first time to 68,000 participants

Silesian Science Festival Katowice is a great experience! The audience is very engaged and inquisitive. After each of my talks, I had the opportunity to engage in a series of interesting questions and conversations with festival attendees, and I had a great time during the rest of the event.

Prof. Lewis Dartnell University of Westminster

THE BEGINNING – EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE OPENING WEEKEND

With the next, seventh edition of the Silesian Science Festival, which took place in December 2023, the gates of the City of Science were opened for the first time to herald its ideas in the most accessible way. The International Congress Centre hosted the real City of Science, which could be visited for 3 days for the very first time. The novelty of this edition was the City of Science Market of Ideas, on which 6 stages were built, symbolising tenement houses and an agora, which reflected the living city. One of the key themes of the Festival was the impact of humans on the environment and health – participants could learn more about the story of Jolanta Wadowska-Król, who became famous for her fight against lead poisoning in Szopienice, Katowice. In honour of the recently deceased honorary doctor of the University of Silesia, a zone was proposed for discussion of post-industrial diseases. As a guest of ŚFN, one could also learn the secrets related to science in motor sports and familiarize oneself with the scientific background of developing the most modern technologies used, among others, in Formula 1 races or in top-class car rallies. This edition of ŚFN included the show named KATOPOLIS. The participants also had the opportunity to learn the secrets of physics during a laser show hosted by a group of scientists from Lund University.

BEST IN SILESIAN, POLISH AND GLOBAL SCIENCE

The most outstanding scientists from Silesian universities presented their achievements on the stage of the Silesian Hall of Fame. Scientific meetings were also present on the World Science Stage (foreign guests), I Like ScienceStage (hosted once again by the ŚFN ambassador, Dr. Tomasz Rożek), Pulsar Stage (organised in cooperation with the “Polityka” weekly magazine), 357 stage (created together with Radio 357), Reading Nature Stage (created in cooperation with Łukasz Lamża, PhD), Inclusion Stage and Rawa Valley Stage, as well as at the Tree of Tales (co-created with the “Granatowe Góry” Jerzy Pilch Word Festival”) and at two Science Stations (this time named after Nobel Prize winners – Albert Einstein and Wisława Szymborska). This edition of the Festival was attended by over 100 special guests from Poland and 18 foreign guests. They included Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, PhD, Prof. Krzysztof Zanussi, Prof. Andrzej Dragan, Niamh Shaw, PhD, Prof. Derrick de Kerckhove, Alaina Wood and Prof. Lewis Dartnell.

The 7. ŚFN was attended by:

�� 870 speakers

�� 2,691 science communicators

�� over 68,000 participants at the International Congress Centre

MORE ABOUT THE 7TH SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL

POLISH SCIENCE DAY

AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

↳ We – Silesians – we are (in) the centre of Europe

On the occasion of the celebration of Polish Science Day in February 2024, representatives of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science visited the European Parliament, where the exhibition Where The Mountains Are Upside Down And Inside Out was opened at its headquarters on 20 February. It took the form of a visual micro-essay, curated by the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice. The exhibition included geological cores obtained from the Jankowice coal mine in Rybnik, Prof. Adam Rostański’s collection of metallophytes – plants that, thanks to adaptation, are able to survive in a polluted environment, as well as a painting by Ludwik Holesz based on traces of plants imprinted in coal. Participants of the visit could also watch short films by students of the Krzysztof Kieślowski Film School of the University of Silesia.

During the opening, the inaugural lecture entitled “Greening the Carbon Heart of Europe” was delivered by Prof. Iwona Jelonek from the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of Silesia. The event was attended by, among others, Elżbieta Bieńkowska, Prof. Eng. Jerzy Buzek, Włodzimierz Cimoszewicz, PhD, Jan Olbrycht, as well as representatives of the European Commission. The exhibition was accompanied by a debate on science and education as the main instruments of regional transformation, using the example of Silesia, and a meeting entitled "How to win against populists? – young voters and the future of democracy" with the participation of students and PhD students of the Consortium, led by MEP Łukasz Kohut. On the occasion of Polish Science Day, a unique publication entitled "50 outstanding achievements of Silesian science" was prepared.

The presence of representatives of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 in the European Parliament on the occasion of Polish Science Day is an expression of recognition of the academic achievements and innovative projects implemented by Silesian universities and proof that Silesia is today an important centre of scientific thought of European significance, as well as a place for discussion and searching for answers to the greatest dilemmas facing Europe and the world.

Elżbieta Bieńkowska Chairwoman of the University Council of the University of Silesia

WE WANT THE RIVER. RAWA FESTIVAL

On 25 May 2024, the "We Want Rivers. Rawa Festival" event took place for the first time, co-organised by the University of Silesia and the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice.

The Rawa Festival is an encouragement for regeneration, the joy of walking, and respite. A celebration of symbiosis with the existing landscape. This is a holiday focused on mindfulness, noticing and acceptance. Rawa, regardless of its state of preservation, is a heritage, which creates an opportunity for relationship, identification with the place and the object. It is ours. It is also a starting point (source) for various creative activities: artistic, musical, sports.

Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek Rector of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice, originator of the event

The meeting was an opportunity to discuss the future of Rawa and participate in various workshops, sound walks and so-called student interventions (including RPG games and educational paths). The festival provoked thinking about Rawa, among others, as a starting point for creative activities: artistic, musical, performative, culinary, sports and social, such as cleaning the space around Rawa. During the event, research by scientists from the University of Silesia on the natural and social context of Rawa was also presented. The evening concluded with a concert of river sounds performed by Michał Zygmunt.

INTER-UNIVERSITY INAUGURATION OF ACADEMIC YEAR

↳ Nearly 2,000 academics jointly inaugurated another

Katowice is the European City of Science. This is a non-trivial distinction. What does science mean? Initially, science means the body of knowledge. Aristotle wrote: "The sciences are physical, poetic, theoretical." I doubt it will be enough.(...) True wisdom lies in recognising one's own ignorance and constantly striving to broaden one's horizons.

Historian

On 27 September 2024, the third Inter-university Inauguration of the Academic Year of the universities of the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science took place at the seat of the National Symphony Orchestra of the Polish Radio (NOSPR).

At 11:00 a.m. in the Rawa Club, the "Concert of Wishes" took place - a broadcast of Radio Nowy Świat, hosted by Joanna Kołaczkowska and Prof. Ryszard Koziołek, Rector of the University of Silesia. At the same time, the ECS science town operated in the Katowice market square. In the afternoon, the rector's procession of two hundred people passed through the streets of the city. The event was attended by 80 rectors, as well as the Minister of Science and the Minister of Industry.

The inauguration programme included a lecture by Prof. Norman Davies entitled "Knowledge and Ignorance: Does the West Understand Everything?" The artistic setting was provided by: University of Silesia „Harmonia” Choir, Choir of the University of Economics in Katowice, Choir of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice and Choir of the Silesian University of Technology in Katowice. The ceremony concluded with a concert by the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra.

THE RESEARCHERS' NIGHT IN THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE 2024

↳ Over 300 activities during a single night

The Researchers’ Night, organised for many years at the Silesian University of Technology, took on new dimensions in the City of Science, as it was held simultaneously at 6 universities of the Academic Consortium and in 8 cities: Gliwice, Zabrze, Katowice, Chorzów, Sosnowiec, Bytom, Rybnik and Cieszyn.

The event under the slogan "Silesian Power of Scientists!" took place on Saturday, 12 October 2024, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. We focused on the interdisciplinary dimension of science, which brings together scientists from many fields in joint activities. During the event, you could see how engineers are changing the face of medicine, why AI is needed not only by programmers, whether games will change the future of education, why intelligent materials can influence the way we travel. We devoted some of our activities to Silesia, and they concerned environmental protection and modern technologies in industry and transport, as well as architecture, language and tradition. The additional attractions included scientific concerts, exhibitions, film screenings and workshops for the youngest children or lectures for adults only. Participants could take part in over 300 popular science activities conducted by 850 scientists from Silesian universities.

As part of the Researchers’ Night in the European City of Science 2024, seven competitions were organised for children, young people and teachers, including team competitions: „21st Century Explorer – Draw Your Invention”; „Don't Get Caught in the Web”; „Stop Fake News!”; „I Respect Myself” and individual: "Scientific Postcard from Silesia – a Photography Competition"; „Science – My Passion”; „My City in the Future – Artistic Work”. The competitions met with great interest among the participants. The organisers received 363 competition entries. 95 laureates and honourable mentions were selected and invited to the ceremonial inauguration of the Researchers’ Night.

Prof. Norman Davies

/ INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS ON EDUCATION QUALITY 2024

↳ Over 100 speakers

The International Congress on Education Quality (ICEQ) was held in Katowice in October already for the third time. Every year it gathers people interested in issues related to education quality assurance systems, quality monitoring, accreditation, internationalisation of education, development of teaching competences and distance learning. Participants had the opportunity not only to acquire new knowledge, but also to engage in practical activities, share examples of good practices and create a network of professional contacts that may result in international cooperation. The Congress has become a platform for the exchange of experiences in the field of internationalisation of education, the effects of international educational projects and teaching innovations implemented by Polish and foreign universities. With over 100 speakers and participants from different countries, the event helped build strong educational partnerships at the global level.

The ICEQ was organised by universities belonging to the Academic Consortium Katowice – City of Science. The event took place at universities and at the Silesian Museum.

8TH SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL – CLOSING WEEKEND OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE

↳ Almost 4,000 science communicators in the real City of Science

The Silesian Science Festival shows that universities can cooperate with one another. This is what happens when people show up who want it, who have an idea, and who know that synergy works wonders. Universities that cooperate with each other in a consortium have better scientific results, higher citations, and attract new students (...)

Barbara Nowacka Minister of Education, during the 8th ŚFN

SUMMARY OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE – A REAL CITY AT THE ICC

This time, in the International Congress Centre one could find districts dedicated to particular scientific disciplines. Floating above those gathered in the main space was the beautiful Gaia, a huge balloon with high-resolution photos of Earth. The author of this installation, British artist Luke Jerram, calculated that viewing the installation from a distance of 211 metres allows you to experience very special feelings, available only to astronauts who have viewed the Earth from the Moon. And indeed, throughout the Festival, Gaia attracted enormous interest. The entrance to the Festival was opened by the Rawa Valley –a stage where, among others, Fulbright scholarship holders performed.

Meetings with Jeff Forshaw, Andrzej Dragan and Lewis Dartnell, which opened each day, attracted crowds to the Main Stage. Our guests discussed with the audience the secrets of the Universe recorded in black holes, the issue of the existence of the present, and how life on Earth was shaped by geological processes.

WE SAY "I'M CHECKING" WE LOOK AT THE DURABLE EFFECTS OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE

The 8th Silesian Science Festival Katowice does not mean the end of efforts to build the real City of Science. This journey is divided into stages, one of which ended at the end of 2024, but the tangible results of the efforts of the Academic Consortium universities are intended to stay with us for longer. The eighth edition of the ŚFN was an ideal place to present, among others, the assumptions of the Scientific Programme for Silesia, which is to become a grant solution for financing Silesian science. The organisers also presented solutions related to the construction of the Green Science Zone, the main assumption of which

is to create a space in Katowice that combines relaxation and contact with the results of scientific work, all as part of the planned revitalisation of Rawa. Green Science Zone is also to become a space where a completely unique Network Science Centre will be created, combining the potential of 7 public universities in a way that will allow access to researchers, their laboratories and the effects of their efforts for all interested parties.

The festival was also an opportunity to sum up 50 Weeks in the City of Science – the Market of Ideas space was an excellent place to present the most interesting activities of this ECS programme stream. The festival was also an opportunity to present to an international audience the results of numerous competitions organised throughout 2024. The winners of the prestigious FameLab competition, the main goal of which is to promote scientific research in the form of 3-minute speeches, appeared in Katowice again. The best participants of the European competitions organised during ECS, i.e. EU TalentOn and EUCYS, also talked about their successes, and nearly 40 student teams presented conceptual projects of solutions to selected problems as part of the “Co-thinking –cooperation: Student Scientific Projects” initiatives and the “Young Science in the City of Science” programme.

OUTSTANDING NOVELTIES, OUTSTANDING GUESTS

Among the new features that enjoyed particular popularity were special stages and zones, including those related to artificial intelligence, gaming and space. The formula of cooperation with the friendly Granatowe Góry literary festival was also developed – this time, literature fans could visit a different literary festival every day and meet its organisers and invited guests. In addition to the already mentioned festival from Wisła, under the patronage of Jerzy Pilch, the literature zone also featured the Aglo Festival by Zbigniew Rokita and the Silesian Library’s Festival of the Word Space.

The list of foreign special guests of the 8th ŚFN included, among others, Nobel Prize winner in physics Prof. J. Georg Bednorz, Yolanda Ohene, PhD, Prof. Norman Davies, Fran Scott, Prof. Jeff Forshaw, Cosimo Accoto, Prof. Alicja Tardy and Prof. Lewis Dartnell. The Polish guests included Dawid Myśliwiec, PhD, Aga Szuścik, Prof. Andrzej Dragan, Tymon Tymański, Adam Mirek, PhD Eng., Agata Romaniuk, Karol Wójcicki, Agata Kołodziejczyk, PhD, Krzysztof M. Maj, PhD and Ewelina Zambrzycka-Kościelnicka.

The festival was attended by:

�� almost 70,000 participants at the ICC

�� almost 10,000 participants online

�� over 3,500 science communicators

NIGHT IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE

↳ Almost 800 participants of a unique concert

A special moment of the closing weekend of the celebrations was the concert entitled “Night in the City of Science", which took place on 7 December 2024 at the International Congress Centre in Katowice (MCK) during the Silesian Science Festival Katowice. The event began with a series of summaries of the year-long European City of Science celebrations, including a film showing the past year filled with science. Then, the Rectors of the universities of the Academic Consortium, the City of Katowice and the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis ceremoniously read out and were the first signatories to sign the “Declaration of the City of Science”. The highlight of the event was a film music concert performed by the Stokłosa Collective Orchestra conducted by Jan Stokłosa. Kuba Badach and Natalia Grosiak also appeared on stage.

FINAL CONCERT AT THE SILESIAN PHILHARMONIC

↳ 287 distinguished people of the City of Science

On 20 December 2024, the Henryk Mikołaj Górecki Silesian Philharmonic in Katowice hosted the Final Concert, concluding the celebrations of the European City of Science Katowice 2024. Under the baton of the artistic director of the Silesian Philharmonic, Yaroslav Shemet, the Symphony Orchestra performed classical repertoire. That evening, individuals who made particular contributions to the organisation of the celebration programme were also honoured. City of Science badges were awarded to 287 representatives of institutions co-organising the EMNK 2024 celebrations and to City of Science partners.

SPECIAL PROJECTS

Popular science initiatives have been initiated in the City of Science, which, by increasing the accessibility of science and its dissemination, are intended to create the feeling that in Silesia – more than in other regions – science is always at hand. It is for this purpose, among others, that permanent Consortium initiatives have been launched – we encourage you to make use of them.

SILESIAN SCIENTIFIC TRAIL

↳ 200 science tourism facilities in the region

In cooperation between the Academic Consortium and I Like Science Foundation, a unique guide to science tourism has been developed. The Silesian edition of the science trail project combines the promotion of exploring inspiring places related to science with the concept of the Network Science Centre. Based on the best knowledge and experience, a map of over 200 institutions, facilities, scientific and cultural units in the Silesian Voivodeship was created, which serve as a unique scientific trail. The institutions offering unlimited access to science and popularising Silesian research achievements include – in addition to many university units of the Consortium – museums, research institutes and cultural places of particular importance for science. The guidebook will feature 10 themed tours featuring selected locations. The guidebook will be available as a website.

ASK A SCIENTIST! ↳ 108 answers to non-obvious questions

There are almost 10,000 scientists working at the Academic Consortium - Katowice City of Science ready to use their expert knowledge and answer the most burning questions from adults and children!

The “Ask a Scientist” campaign has been running since December 2023. Its purpose is to enable each person to obtain an answer to a question whose explanation is not obvious. The answers are provided by scientists and experts from seven public universities forming the Academic Consortium – Katowice City of Science. By the end of 2024, a total of 239 questions had been asked. 56 researchers from the Academic Consortium got involved in the campaign, resulting in 108 responses published on the campaign website.

Ask a question!*

SEEDS OF SCIENCE, ŚFN ON TOUR & SCIENCETRUCK

CITY OF SCIENCE ON 4 WHEELS

Seeds of Science is an initiative of the City of Science, whose goal is to stimulate passion for science in the areas where getting from larger scientific centres can be diffcult. Thanks to the trailer purchased in the City of Science called "Science Truck", which is also a lecture stage, workshop room and mobile research laboratory, we can reach specific groups of recipients. The mobile science town initiative is based on the previous activities of the Silesian Science Festival KATOWICE, in the travelling version, i.e. ŚFN on Tour. These are mobile festival shows (demonstration stands, meetings with scientists, lectures and other forms of popularising science) carried out as part of a mobile guest zone appearing during various types of events promoting science. In 2024, an additional edition of ŚFN on Tour – House of Science was carried out, thanks to which meetings of representatives of the world of science with young recipients took place in 10 facilities conducting care and educational activities in the Silesian Voivodeship.

The aim of the House of Science is to popularise science among children and young people from communities at risk of exclusion, to facilitate access to knowledge, to arouse cognitive curiosity, and to present the positive impact of science on the future of the world.

People interested in inviting the mobile initiative of the City of Science to their town/school/facility are asked to contact us at: emn@us.edu.pl

EGIDA STUDENT RADIO –EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE

2024 RADIO

↳ Student perspective of

the City of Science

As part of the project, Radio Egida moved its headquarters to the centre of Katowice, to the spinPLACE building. This decision resulted from the opportunities provided by the European City of Science Katowice 2024, enabling cooperation with scientific and cultural initiatives such as TalentOn, EUCYS and the Silesian Science Festival.

The new headquarters is equipped with a modern radio studio, podcast studio and newsroom with professional computer equipment and mixers, which improves the functionality of the editorial office.

Under the direction of the editors-in-chief, a new programming schedule was introduced, including the “Mine of Knowledge” program, which allows scientists to present their research results. The schedule also includes programmes dedicated to thematic weeks (Sound, Book, Breath, Money, Old Age, Voice, etc.), tailored to the needs of the academic community.

The project also enabled the implementation of DAB+ broadcasting after conducting an audit of local cable TV suppliers and signing an agreement that resulted in obtaining a 10-year concession.

As a result of the project, 30 new editors joined the team, and Radio Egida strengthened its position as an institution combining science, culture and technology. The

project brought tangible benefits in terms of infrastructure, programme and broadcasting technology, creating a solid foundation for the further development of the student radio station.

→ DAB+ technology in almost 20 cities

→ New headquarters of the radio station

→ New studios and newsroom

→ Recruitment of 30 new editors

→ 50 broadcasts dedicated to Science Weeks

EXHIBITIONS: URBAN ART AND KATO | BLUES FACES

11,000 art recipients

The “Kato Blues Faces” project is one of many initiatives initiated last year in connection with the title of the European City of Science Katowice 2024. The idea of this initiative is to recall the musical history of Katowice and the role of the Silesian heritage in the history of blues.

Located at ul. Staromiejska 13, in close proximity to the market square, the exhibition space, presenting, among others, graphics, posters and photos related to the legends of Silesian blues, enjoys great interest not only among the residents of Katowice. Within a few months it was visited by almost 6,000 people!

Staromiejska 13 is an address under a lucky star, as the exhibition “Within the City: Urban Art” enjoyed similar popularity last summer, presenting works by famous contemporary and street art artists in this very place.

Therefore, the “Kato Blues Faces” exhibition continues the good tradition of this space and encourages people to discover the musical roots of the city. We invite you to visit, especially since the exhibition is still available due to its continuing popularity.

CONSORTIUM’S OWN PROJECTS

SUMWAY! ↳ Science. Medicine. Business

In November 2024, at the initiative of the Medical University of Silesia, a unique conference was held. Its aim was to create an interactive and inspiring platform that would bring together scientists, doctors, engineers, specialists, PhD students and enthusiasts of modern solutions to jointly discover, discuss and share knowledge about groundbreaking technological innovations in the healthcare sector.

The key thematic threads included: digital speech therapy – the use of artificial intelligence in supporting speech therapy diagnostics, cybersecurity in diagnostics, and AI in healthcare.

IV REPORTING CONFERENCE FOR UNIVERSITIES PARTICIPATING IN THE 1ST CALL FOR PROPOSALS UNDER THE ‘EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE – RESEARCH UNIVERSITY’ PROGRAMME ↳ A platform for exchanging experiences

On 18–19 November 2024, the 4th Reporting Conference for universities participating in the 1st call for proposals under the ‘Excellence initiative – research university’ (IDUB) programme was held in Gliwice. The event was organised by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in cooperation with the Silesian University of Technology and with the support of international experts assessing the university’s progress in implementing its development plans.

The aim of the conference was to discuss the university’s achievements to date under the IDUB programme, with particular emphasis on the results of the mid-term evaluation conducted in 2023. Discussions focused on areas such as internationalisation, work culture, attracting talented researchers and integration of research potential.

The conference programme included panel discussions with the participation of rectors and vice-rectors of leading Polish universities, including Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, University of Wrocław, Gdańsk University

of Technology, Lodz University of Technology, Medical University of Gdańsk, University of Warsaw, University of Science and Technology in Kraków, Jagiellonian University, Warsaw University of Technology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Medical University of Bialystok and Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń

Those interested could participate in-person or online thanks to the hybrid nature of the event. The conference language was English, with simultaneous translation into Polish and sign language provided. This year’s event was also supplemented with a workshop part, addressed both to beneficiaries of the IDUB programme and universities eligible to take part in the second edition of the call for proposals, in connection with the results of the first evaluation of the quality of scientific activities for the years 2017–2021.

The 4th Reporting Conference was an important element of monitoring the progress of universities in implementing the assumptions of the IDUB programme and a platform for the exchange of experiences and good practices between higher education institutions in Poland.

CONFERENCE ‘PROJECT POLYTECHNIC’

↳

159 secondary school students under the care of academic teachers

On 1 March 2024, the Silesian University of Technology Educational and Congress Centre hosted a conference ‘Project Polytechnic’, summarising the second edition of a series of projects implemented by academic teachers in cooperation with secondary school students as part of the ‘Excellence initiative – research university’ programme.

Students from 27 secondary schools from the Silesian Voivodeship and from Kraków and Wolsztyn took part in the event. Project teams, consisting of 2–3 second and third grade students from general secondary schools and technical schools, worked under the supervision of academic teachers, supported by PhD students and students. A total of 159 secondary school students, 42 main supervisors and 43 secondary supervisors participated in the projects. During the conference, 61 projects were presented in the form of posters, covering all the University’s Priority Research Areas. The projects were implemented in the project-based learning formula, which allowed students to develop practical skills, creativity and teamwork.

The competition jury distinguished the six best projects, including:

→ ‘Detector – obstacle signal for blind people’ (3rd Secondary School in Katowice),

→ ‘Functional structural ceramic-metal composites for applications in aviation and automotive industry’ (Technical School Complex in Mikołów),

→ ‘Interactive ROBO-Pot’ (Technical and IT School Complex in Gliwice),

→ ‘Design and production of a sensory book with replaceable panels using 3D printing technology’ (Technical School Complex in Mikołów),

→ ‘The impact of lifestyle on the physical fitness of secondary school students - generation Z’ (1st Secondary School in Chorzów),

→ ‘Automated Object Identification’ (1st Secondary School in Chorzów).

Additionally, the EURECA PRO distinction was awarded for the project ‘Reuse of waste materials in the 3D printing process using the FDM method’ (Technical School Complex in Mikołów).

Students implementing the projects received micro-credentials – digital documents confirming the acquisition of knowledge, skills and professional competences. Members of the winning teams were awarded a scholarship of PLN 700 per month in the first year of studies at the Silesian University of Technology.

The ‘Project Polytechnic’ conference was an excellent opportunity to present the effects of cooperation between the university and secondary schools and to promote project-oriented education as an effective method of developing youth competences.

PREMIERE OF THE PLAY BY THE THEATRE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ECONOMICS IN KATOWICE

↳ A performance inspired by the drama ‘TOP DOGS’ by Urs Widmer

On 10 December 2024, the stage of Teatr Rozrywki in Chorzów hosted the historic premiere of the Theatre of the University of Economics in Katowice The event took place as part of the Human Week in the City of Science and gathered numerous guests, students and theatre lovers. The play ‘NASZA korpoRACJA’ (‘Our Corporation’) was based on the drama ‘TOP DOGS’ by Urs Widmer and was a bold interpretation of the realities of the corporate world.

The Theatre of the University of Economics in Katowice was established in November 2023 in cooperation with Teatr Rozrywki, giving students the opportunity to develop their acting skills under the supervision of professionals.

MEETING WITH ANNE APPLEBAUM

↳ The future of democracy in the hands of technology

On 12 December 2024, Anne Applebaum took part in a meeting organised at the University of Economics in Katowice, which concerned her latest book – Autocracy,

Inc.. Participants discussed the problems of the contemporary world described by the journalist in her latest publication. Issues raised included the spread of disinformation and populism, the global crisis of democracy and the decline in trust in public institutions. Applebaum recalled the stories described in Autocracy, Inc. and, together with the debate participants, tried to answer the most burning questions of today's world, which – also in the face of new technologies – is encountering growing number of new challenges. The meeting attracted not only politics enthusiasts, but also students who could deepen their knowledge of contemporary political and social phenomena.

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE

‘ROBOSERVE – ROBOTS IN THE SERVICE OF MAN'

↳ Will robots change the world?

The aim of the International Conference ‘RoboServe – Robots in the Service of Man’ was to present modern solutions using robots and robotics in various sectors – from industry, through medicine, to supporting people with special needs and the elderly. The event took place on 14 and 15 November at the University of Economics in Katowice. Participants had the opportunity to see industrial robots, drones, firefighting robots, and rovers, which allowed them to learn about a wide range of applications of robotic technologies.

The event was held under the honorary patronage of the Silesian Voivodeship Commandant of the State Fire Service, which enabled a demonstration of robots supporting firefighters.

ENGINEERING JOB, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, TECHNOLOGY AND ACCESSIBILITY FAIR

↳ 20 exhibitors in spring and autumn

On 4–11 March 2024, the Silesian University of Technology organised the jubilee 30th edition of the Spring Job, Entrepreneurship, Technology and Accessibility Fair. The event was held in a hybrid formula: from 4 to 11 March on a remote platform (https://targipracypolsl.webexpo.pl), and on 11 March in an on-site form in the ‘Nowa’ hall of the Sports Centre of the Gliwice branch of the university. The fair was aimed at students, graduates, academics and secondary school students making decisions about their further educational and professional paths.

The then Rector of the Silesian University of Technology, Prof. Arkadiusz Mężyk, emphasised that the jubilee edition of the fair coincided with the establishment of 2024

as the Year of Economic Education, which was an excellent opportunity to popularise economic knowledge among the academic and local communities. The event was organised by: Student Careers Office, Office for People with Disabilities and Student Government of the Silesian University of Technology.

On the other hand, the 18th autumn edition of the fair took place on 21 October 2024 at the Sports Centre of the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice. The event brought together nearly 120 exhibitors, including companies looking for employees, job market institutions, student organisations and associations supporting people with disabilities and those in difficult life situations.

The fair was addressed to a wide audience: students, graduates, researchers and students of secondary and vocational schools. Participants had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with job, internship and traineeship offers, as well as take advantage of consultations in the Trade Fair Advisory Zone, where experts helped in preparing application documents and conducted simulated recruitment interviews.

LABOPENDAYS 2024

↳ Open laboratories

On 11 and 12 April 2024, the Silesian University of Technology organised the second edition of LabOpenDays – Open Laboratory Days, which attracted many secondary school students interested in science and technology. The event took place at all university faculties in Gliwice, Katowice and Zabrze, offering participants the opportunity to explore modern laboratories, meet scientists and students, and participate in workshops and lectures.

During LabOpenDays 2024, participants could:

→ visit the laboratories of scanning microscopy, minimally invasive surgery, virtual reality and biomedical signal recording at the Faculty of Biomedical Engineering;

→ learn about modern measurement technologies used in geodesy, such as tachymeters, code levels, GNSS receivers, laser scanners and drones;

→ take part in workshops on mechatronics, building and programming driving robots using ChatGPT, as well as 3D design and printing at the Faculty of Transport and Aeronautical Engineering;

→ see how air pollution is measured, what a chromatograph is used for, and look at microplastics and nanomaterials under a microscope;

→ test their skills on a train simulator and learn how hydrogen is produced and converted into vehicle motion.

↳ 83 publications of the City of Science

As part of the programmes and numerous initiatives of the European City of Science Katowice 2024, 32 publications were published in print, with a circulation of 132,720 copies, in addition to being available online.

Moreover, the graphic symbol ‘Book created in the City of Science’ was used to mark all publications printed by the University of Silesia Press in 2024, totalling 51, as well as those publications and scientific monographs that are open access.

City of Science publications include:

publications popularising scientific research:

�� 50 Outstanding Achievments of Silesian Science,

�� 2024 Chronicles of Silesian Science, which presents the research achievements of the universities of the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science;

scientific monographs:

�� Silesia Superior. Narratives on Upper Silesia.

A Multitude of Perspectives edited by Renata Dampc-Jarosz, Andrzej Kowalczyk and Lucyna Sadzikowska;

�� Viruses in our lives. Virus Week 8–14/04/2024, edited by Janusz Kasperczyk, MD, DSc;

post-conference publications:

�� Post-conference publication ESOF 2024 Katowice, edited by Michał Daszykowski, Dawid Matuszek, Agnieszka Lniak and Patrycja Kierlik;

popular science publications for adults:

�� Science inspires! Support materials for teachers related to the 50 Weeks in the City of Science Katowice 2024, containing 50 lesson plans,

�� On the Other Side of the Well. Upper Silesia in translations by Nina Nowawa-Marysik,

�� The New Atlantis – the result of project work conducted within the Academy of Anthropocene Heritage Interpretation, operating at the Faculty of Humanities, University of Silesia;

popular science publications for children:

�� Living in the Valley of Happiness by Joanna Foryś, Jerzy Jarosz, Łukasz Hajc,

�� Nikoś the Hedgehog and Kasia's Secret Dreams: Magical Journey to the World of Science!

art books:

�� The Law of Conservation od Energy by Justyna Stefańczyk;

catalogues:

�� of the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS);

�� of the Ryszard Czernow's exhibition Brick World;

publications presenting visual identification systems:

�� EMNK 2024,

�� ESOF,

�� EUCYS,

�� EU TalentOn.

information materials about ECSK 2024 in the form of presentations, briefs and brochures.

PUBLICATIONS

AVAILABLE ONLINEE

II. RESEARCH EXCELLENCE

The year 2024 was a time of intensive activity for Katowice, which not only strengthened the city’s position on the scientific map of Europe, but also created the foundations for the long-term development of research and innovation. Thanks to the cooperation between universities, local government and the business sector, new initiatives have been established that will pay off in the coming years. Katowice has not only become a place for debates and meetings of outstanding scientists, but also a space for real actions for the future of science, education and innovation.

Katowice, the European City of Science 2024, has become an arena for a unique combination of science, business, education and community. It is here, in the heart of dynamically changing Silesia, that actions have been taken to strengthen cooperation between universities, the industrial sector and the local community. The year 2024 was a unique time for the world of science—not only in organisational terms, but above all in the context of building lasting foundations for the further development of research, innovation and science communication among citizens.

In this publication we summarise the most important initiatives, events and projects that contribute to Katowice’s success as a European City of Science. We will talk about the key conferences, research programmes and educational initiatives that took place over the past year, in addition to looking at the long-term effects of this unique initiative.

YESTERDAY

One of the most important events was the EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF 2024) – the largest European meeting of scientists, businesses and policy makers, which took place in Katowice in June 2024. During over 120 thematic sessions, lectures and panel discussions, participants discussed key issues related to the future of science and its role in shaping societies. Topics included energy transition, sustainable development, cultural identity and societal change, healthy societies and the digital transformation. The event was attended by over 3,600 participants, including scientists, entrepreneurs, representatives of non-governmental organisations and public institutions, as well as young researchers, for whom the event was an opportunity to establish valuable contacts and broaden their scientific career prospects.

An integral part of ESOF 2024 were accompanying events, such as the EU Talent Fair, addressed to young scientists and professionals. During this initiative, over 700 participants had the opportunity to meet representatives of academia, industry and the innovation sector through

panel discussions, workshops and networking sessions. The fair provided a unique platform for those just starting their scientific careers, offering the opportunity to gain knowledge about modern trends and challenges facing the research sector.

The year 2024 in Katowice is also a time of intensive activities to communicate science and engage society in scientific research. The Science in the City Festival included seminars and exhibitions such as ‘Green Growth ahead. Innovations in energy, ICT and green transport’. Participants had the opportunity to learn about modern solutions in the field of sustainable development, as well as the impact of EU programmes, such as Horizon Europe, on the development of technology in the region.

Citizen Science was also a particularly important element of the European City of Science celebrations. As part of this initiative, four research projects were carried out with over 100 participants, and the results of their work – in the form of analyses and recommendations – were forwarded to institutions responsible for environmental protection and water resources management. The research covered areas such as water quality, the impact of hydration on physical fitness, ecologically responsible recreation, and monitoring bird populations using deep learning technology

Science Changes Life – Life Changes Science

Katowice as European City of Science 2024 is a community committed to both celebrating science and facing challenges of the modern world. We put this approach at the centre of thinking about the future of society and the place we in.

Anna Budzanowska, PhD ESOF2024 Champion

We often perceive science as something abstract and disconnected from everyday life. Events like ESOF 2024 remind people that science is not something far-fetched – it’s something that introduces changes in many aspects of our lives and produces answers and remedies to the biggest challenges thrown upon us by reality.

Prof. Michał Daszykowski Vice-Rector for Finance at the University of Silesia in Katowice Chairman of the ESOF 2024 Programme Committee

TODAY

An important aspect of Katowice as a City of Science was also support for young scientists and innovators. Spin Business Accelerator is a programme for students, PhD students and researchers that enables the development of innovative solutions in response to the challenges of modern cities. During the six-week cycle, participants worked on projects related to water retention, greening urban spaces, public health and sustainable development, with the support of experts and mentors. The programme concluded with a Demo Day, during which the best ideas were presented and the winners received financial prizes for further development of their projects.

Katowice is also a place where outstanding scientists and people contributing to the development of science are honoured. The Silesian Scientific Award, presented during an official gala in December 2024, distinguished those who, through their research, artistic and teaching activities, contributed to building the prestige of science in the region and internationally.

TOMORROW

Another long-term effect of the European City of Science is the creation of the Scientific Programme for Silesia, which aims to finance scientific research and development projects in the region. The cooperation of seven Silesian public universities and the local government as well as the business sector is intended to create conditions for the sustainable transformation of the region, taking into account energy, economic and social challenges.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the establishment of the Observatory for the Future of Science – an analytical unit dealing with forecasting trends in science and technology and providing reliable data on publications, research projects and innovations. Thanks to cooperation with prestigious research centres such as the Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) at Georgetown University, Katowice has become a place where not only research is conducted, but also its global significance is analysed.

We invite you to read the full study—find out why Katowice is a city that has proven that science can be a driving force for change!

↳ The largest scientific conference in Europe

One of the key elements of each edition of the City of Science Celebrations to date has been an interdisciplinary conference on topics connecting the worlds of science, industry and business. It is the largest European event dedicated to science, research and innovation. Two editions of ESOF were held in Katowice. The first event was the ESOF2022: Katowice Regional Site conference, accompanying the main event held in Leiden, the Netherlands, which was awarded the title of European City of Science 2022. Two years later, as part of the ECSK 2024 celebrations, the 3-day ESOF 2024: Life Changes Science conference was held in the capital of Upper Silesia. .

EUROSCIENCE OPEN FORUM 2022 KATOWICE REGIONAL SITE

When: 15 July 2022

Where: International Congress Centre in Katowice

→ The first joint initiative of the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science.

As part of the celebrations of the European City of Science 2022, which was Leiden, Netherlands, the Euro Science Open Forum 2022 (ESOF2022) scientific conference was held in Leiden from 13 to 16 July 2022. At the same time, an accompanying conference, ESOF2022 Regional Site, was held in Katowice on 15 July 2022.

The meeting took place at the International Congress Centre. Free registration was required for the conference, where those interested in participating could choose events from a wide range of thematic panels: sustainable environment, cultural identity and societal transformation, space for science, healthy societies, freedom and responsibility of science towards society, action-based economic education, going off the beaten track: new paths for an academic career.

The issues raised included:

�� How will science be conducted in the future and how can science improve its functionality as a transformational agent that leads to change in society?

�� How can science be fully open and transcend the borders of countries and boundaries of disciplines and societies?

�� What are the future behaviours, values, expectations, attitudes and norms of the research community?

�� How can institutional structures be changed to support and foster diversity, balance and inclusion?

�� What will be the influence of artificial intelligence and machine learning on the research community and scientific practice?

�� Science in the face of war and its consequences.

The conference also included sessions devoted to doctoral schools, including implementation doctorates, education models and legal aspects of the functioning of doctoral schools in Poland. The events were accompanied by a poster session with the participation of doctoral students from all Katowice doctoral schools.

The conference programme at the International Congress Centre in Katowice included thirteen 75-minute on-site sessions, four of which were broadcast online from Leiden. The sessions were attended by specialists from the universities forming the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science, as well as invited representatives of Polish and foreign research centres, experts representing business, cultural institutions and the media. In mid-July, over 500 people came to the International Congress Centre in Katowice to discuss topics that connect the worlds of science, society, industry and business.

The conference was organised by the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science in cooperation with EuroScience and the City of Katowice. Preparations for this event became the foundation for strengthening relations between the universities associated in the consortium and the City of Katowice. The result of this cooperation was not only the efficient conduct of the conference, but also the strengthening of the partnership, which played a key role in the organisation of ESOF 2024.

EuroScience Open Forum 2022 Regional Site was a pan-European hybrid event engaging in dialogue on science, technology, policy and society. This platform for the exchange of experiences and presentation of the latest scientific achievements, innovations and technological developments attracted politicians, business professionals and media representatives from all over the country to Katowice. .

EUROSCIENCE OPEN FORUM 2024

When: 12–15 June 2024

Where: International Congress Centre

→ Over 3,500 participants from almost 40 countries

Highlights

�� International keynote speakers

�� Over 470 scientific submissions, of which the most interesting works were accepted

�� 121 thematic sessions in six key areas of science

�� Nearly 150 oral presentations and 100 scientific posters

�� Networking Day full of workshops and presentations of innovative projects from the Silesia region

�� over 3,500 participants

�� 7 accompanying events

The conference was held on 12–15 June 2024 at the International Congress Centre in Katowice, providing a platform for interdisciplinary and international scientific debate. Participants, including world-class scientists, representatives of business, public institutions and the media, explored issues related to the impact of science on life and life on science.

The theme of the event was ‘Life Changes Science’, emphasising the dynamic relationship between life and science. The programme included 121 thematic sessions, 10 keynote lectures, 150 oral presentations and 91 poster sessions. Current challenges in science and innovation were discussed within six main thematic areas (energy transition, sustainable environment, cultural identity and societal change, scientific excellence, healthy societies, digital transformation).

The conference was organised by Katowice as the European City of Science in cooperation with a consortium of seven Silesian universities. Thanks to the strategic involvement of the City of Katowice and the university, it was possible to create a space for effective knowledge exchange and establishing new scientific partnerships. Key support was also provided by national and international institutions such as the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Polonium Foundation and UNICEF Poland.

The programme included lectures by distinguished keynote speakers such as Sir Andy Haines (London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine), Jara Pascual (CEO at Collabwith), Marcin Piątkowski (World Bank, Washington DC) and Krzysztof Wodiczko (Harvard University). The event attracted participants from all over the world, strengthening scientific cooperation at regional, national and international levels. Those interested were able to take part in workshops, including sessions on digital transformation and the future of medical education. The conference was also the venue for a dynamic Networking Day, which enabled participants to learn about innovative projects in the region.

The conference was attended by 3,637 participants, including:

2 499 – conference participants

556 – speakers

195 – VIP guest

120 – media representatives

267 – conference organisers, volunteers and operator

↳ Over 75 speakers and trainers from academia, industry and innovation sectors.

When: 14 June 2024

Where: International Congress Centre in Katowice ESOF 2024 accompanying event

�� 720 registered participants from all over Europe.

�� Over 75 speakers and trainers from academia, industry and innovation sectors.

�� 50 activities including panel discussions, presentations, seminars, workshops, success stories and networking sessions.

�� 35 institutions involved in EU TF programme activities.

�� 4 interaction zones designed to meet different development needs in the research ecosystem

�� 1 day full of networking opportunities and building skills

The European Talent Fair took place alongside ESOF, as an event aimed at early-stage scientists and those interested in research.

The objectives of the fair were to strengthen the employment opportunities of young scientists in economic sectors related to development and scientific work, to facilitate contacts and to raise awareness of young people about career development opportunities in science as well as in key sectors of the economy. The fair showcased the diversity of career opportunities in research, connecting young scientists with employers and discussing job market trends.

The fair was attended by 75 panellists, speakers and trainers who prepared nearly 50 activities, such as panel discussions, workshops and presentations—all this to inspire participants to focus their development on fields related to scientific research.

The new European Charter for Researchers (adopted in 2023 as a strategic document of the ERA) was an important topic, indicating the principles that institutions should implement to support the development of research careers.

SCIENCE IN THE CITY

FESTIVAL: SEMINAR AND

EXHIBITION

‘GREEN GROWTH AHEAD. INNOVATIONS IN ENERGY, ICT AND GREEN TRANSPORT’.

↳ Horizon Europe – a chance to support innovators

When: 13 June 2024

Where: International Congress Centre in Katowice ESOF 2024 accompanying event

Science in the City Festival is a series of initiatives that present to a wide audience the results of research and development projects supported by the European Commission, including the Horizon Europe programme and projects carried out by Silesian scientists.

As part of the Horizontal Contact Point South-Western Poland project, coordinated by the Silesian University of Technology and the National Centre for Research and Development, we were invited to participate in a seminar entitled: ‘Green Growth Ahead. Innovations in energy, ICT and green transport’. Participants had the opportunity to listen to lectures prepared by representatives of the European Commission’s Executive Agency for Research and Innovation, the Marshal’s Office of the Silesian Voivodeship, the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the Director of the National Contact Point of the National Centre for Research and Development and representatives of universities and institutes on priority actions in the field of energy, ICT and green transport.

The seminar was accompanied by an exhibition of research and development projects currently being implemented in the region, conducted by international consortiums and financed by the Framework Programmes –Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe.

CITIZEN SCIENCE ↳ 4 citizen science projects

HIGHLIGHTS:

�� research projects

�� 116 study participants,

�� 306 observations,

�� over 3,000 surveys

�� over 30,000 records

As part of the European City of Science Katowice 2024, anyone who wanted to voluntarily devote their time and other resources to participate in scientific research could test themselves—in cooperation with scientists from the University of Silesia in Katowice and the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice – in citizen science. By involving participants from outside of academia in research, we become even more aware that science is, in fact, a social product. The participation of citizens representing various social groups enables data collection on a larger than usual scale.

Water as the main theme of this research turned out to be the inspiration to create four pilot projects that aimed both at education and real support for science. Citizen researchers could become part of:

�� project ‘WATERBIOLIFE (WABIOLI)”

�� project ‘Mission: Water RESPONSIBLE WATER RECREATION (REC)’

�� project ‘Assessment of the impact of the amount of water consumed and types of drinks on psychophysical condition – WATER4HEALTH’

�� project ‘Observation of birds in nesting boxes with the use of deep learning algorithms’.

Citizen science activities in the City of Science engaged residents who were able to collect a variety of research data within four research projects. Thanks to the implementation of the projects, it was possible, among other things, to gather a group of citizen researchers who declare their willingness to continue participating in citizen science activities. The research results were submitted for further analysis, and some of them have already been sent in the form of recommendations and reports to entities responsible for environmental protection and the maintenance of water reservoirs. At the same time, the physiology-related research data will be used to support educational activities in the field of self-assessment of physical fitness based on tests performed at home.

The project resulted in a summary publication, which was presented during a panel discussion on Citizen Science activities during the 8th Silesian Science Festival (7–9 December 2024).

CITIZEN

↳ City of Science for urban innovation

Where: SpinPLACE

When: 2 November – 13 December 2024

Spin Business Accelerator is an acceleration programme organised by the University of Silesia in Katowice in cooperation with SPIN-US. Its aim was to develop innovative solutions that respond to contemporary urban challenges in the context of sustainable development and resilience to climate change. The programme was addressed to students, PhD students and employees of universities belonging to the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science.

The programme ran for six weeks, from 2 November to 13 December 2024. During this time, participants worked on solutions in response to ten challenges grouped into five thematic areas: environment, urban space, public health, mobility and sustainable development of academic campuses. Example challenges included creating innovative methods for greening urban spaces, improving water retention in urban areas, and developing sustainable agricultural practices to support urban agriculture.

Participants had access to a wide team of experts from various fields and financial support for testing the solutions being developed. The program included financial prizes for the best teams: PLN 5,000 for first place, PLN 3,000 for second place and PLN 1,000 for third place. Additionally, teams could receive up to PLN 2,000 for purchases and services necessary in the testing process.

The programme process included several key stages. On 13 November 2024, Design Thinking workshops were held, led by Łukasz Szczęsny, during which participants learned how to create solutions based on real user needs. The next day, Team Building workshops were organised, led by Ula Szwed and Iza Bernau-Ławniczak, focusing on strengthening cooperation and building trust in teams.

On 11 December 2024, the Crossing Session took place, serving as a dress rehearsal before the final Demo Day. During the event, seven teams presented their innovative solutions, which allowed for the exchange of opinions and suggestions for further development of the projects.

The programme finale, Demo Day, took place on 17 December 2024. The event was hosted by Katarzyna Papież-Pawełczak, PhD, President of the Management Board of SPIN-US, and the guests were welcomed by Dariusz Laska, Chancellor of the University of Silesia. The jury composed of Barbara Miś, Magdalena Letun-Łątka, PhD Eng., Monika Ptak and Robert Bieleń, after heated deliberations, selected the winners:

1 st place (5,000 PLN): a team presenting the EcoSigma app and the Ecomat network as solutions for sustainable campuses of the future. Authors: Magdalena Christ, Paulina Major-Kalinowska, Kamila Cywińska; group supervisor: Agnieszka Stefaniak-Zubko.

2nd place (3,000 PLN): the ‘State of Mind – Mental Health Path’ project, supporting the well-being of

city dwellers. Authors: Wiktoria Moczarska, Hewilia Hetmańczyk, Patryk Morawiec, Sylwia Chrostowska; group supervisor: Stanisław “Stan” Cieśla.

3rd place (1,000 PLN): the “superGRATES, superTREES FOR RETENTION” project, an innovative way to increase water retention. Authors: Kinga Schreck, Oliwier Tajstra, Edyta Sygut, Marta Ostrowska-Bies; group supervisor: Joanna Foryś.

The Audience Award was presented to the authors of EcoSigma and Ecomats. During the Demo Day, Marek Marzec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof., also presented the AdiPlus project, which won the Audience Award in the final of the 6th edition of the ING Bank Śląski Grant Programme.

The Spin Business Accelerator programme has shown that a diversity of perspectives, experiences and competences helps create innovative solutions for the cities of the future. The organisers expressed hope that the initiative will be continued in the following years.

SCHOOL OF SCIENCE COMMUNICATION

↳ 94 science communication training participants

Where: spinPLACE in Katowice, When: 3–4 June 2024, 21–22 October 2024

The University of Silesia School of Science Communication was one of the largest initiatives of this type in Poland, addressed to academic staff, PhD students, school teachers and university students, as well as anyone interested in improving their competences in the field of science communication. In 2024, two editions of the event were held on 3–4 June 2024 and 21–22 October at spinPLACE in Katowice with 94 participants. The aim of the two-day workshops within the School of Science Communication was to develop participants’ passion for teaching by familiarising them with modern teaching methods. A group of international coaches shared their experience in presenting scientific phenomena in an audience-absorbing way, by creating dramatically surprising stories, utilising attractive science busking, and through introducing teaching opportunities using the STEAM method (STEAM: science, technology, engineering, the arts, mathematics). The group of experts included: Andrea Brunello, David Price, Anna Łosiak, PhD, Aleksandra Jaźwa, Alex Baker, PhD and Maciej Myśliwiec. The School of Science Communication was conducted in English and was a free event.

Coaches' profiles:

Andrea Brunello – researcher, playwright, director, actor, teacher, science communicator and podcaster. He teaches the theory and practice of science storytelling at the University of Trento and is involved in ONSCI –Officina di Narrazione della Scienza in Bologna, an annual summer school dedicated to learning communication through storytelling. Andrea Brunello is also the founder and director of the Portland Theatre in Trento.

David Price – British outdoor scientist, writer, FameLab master class trainer. He specialises in extremely mobile and inspiring forms of transferring scientific knowledge. In 2007, he joined the Science Made Simple school. He travels the world as an outdoor scientist – a street artist who, by performing surprising scientific experiments, shares his knowledge in a simple and pleasant way. For his innovative ideas and contribution to the creative spread of science, he received the Josh Award at the Science Festival in Manchester.

Anna Łosiak, PhD – Planetary geologist who studies small impact craters on Earth and the processes that shape the surface of Mars. She works at the Institute of Geological Sciences of the Polish Academy of Sciences. She graduated from the University of Warsaw and Michigan State University. Later, she obtained her PhD at the University of Vienna and worked at Exeter University in the UK. She has received grants from Fulbright, the National Science Centre, the Foundation for Polish Science, Europlanet and the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship.

Aleksandra Jaźwa – graduate of geology at the University of Wrocław. She works at the Institute of Geological Sciences of the Polish Academy of Sciences, where she deals with the preparation of geological samples on both macro- and microscale. For years she has been dealing with geological science communication, mineral exploration, and geotourism.

Alex Baker, PhD – award-winning Assistant Professor and inventor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Warwick. As well as being a scientist with an international reputation for creating next-generation medical diagnostics, he is also an experienced science communicator in the UK. His passion is engaging the public in all things chemistry and science. As part of the Baker Humanitarian Chemistry Group, he seeks to find solutions to humanitarian healthcare challenges that impact the most marginalised communities around the world. His research has led to collaborations with engineers, biologists, physicists, physicians, and industry in the pursuit of improving healthcare on a global scale.

Maciej Myśliwiec – communications specialist with almost 20 years of experience in working with the technology and space sectors as well as the world of science. He is the owner of Space Agency, which provides services ranging from marketing, media and public relations to science & business relations, course design and market research. He has lectured at universities across Poland and builds bridges between science and business, especially in the space sector. He also supports university students in launching their professional careers by seeking out

opportunities for them to collaborate with businesses, apply for research grants and build their own start-ups. He is a space and technology enthusiast. Loves anything that flies.

SILESIAN SCIENTIFIC AWARD

↳ 11 outstanding scientists awarded

When: 8 December 2024

Where: International Congress Centre in Katowice

The Silesian Scientific Award is granted by universities co-organising the Silesian Science Festival Katowice. It is intended to honour people who significantly contribute to the development of science, present outstanding artistic achievements and promote Silesian science on the national and international stage. The Silesian Scientific Award is an important distinction for scientists and artists associated with the region, promoting their achievements and supporting the development of science in Silesia.

The event was organised by Silesia’s public universities: Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Silesian University of Technology, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, University of Economics in Katowice, University of Silesia in Katowice and Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa. Each of these institutions nominated its candidates, from among whom the Jury of the Silesian Scientific Award selected the winners.

The award recognised research employees and doctoral students. The Special Award of the Mayor of Katowice went to Grzegorz Wojnar, PhD, DSc, Eng., Assoc. Prof. of the Silesian University of Technology, whereas the winners of the Special Award ‘Meritorious for Silesian Science’ were Marcin Krupa, PhD Eng., Mayor of Katowice, and Kazimierz Karolczak, Chair of the Board of the Metropolis GMZ. In the ‘Employees’ category, the Award went to:

�� Piotr Ceglarek, MA and Jan Dybała, MA from the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice;

�� Wacław Adamczyk, PhD from the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice;

�� Prof. Eng. Sławomir Boncel from the Silesian University of Technology;

�� Prof. Marchiusz Gąsior, MD, PhD from the Medical University of Silesia;

�� Prof. Krystian Heffner from the University of Economics in Katowice;

�� Prof. Anna Wypych-Gawrońska from the Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa;

�� Prof. Miron Lakomy from the University of Silesia in Katowice.

In the ‘PhD Students’ category, the award went to Adam Kaczmarek, MSc Eng. from the Jan Dlugosz University in Częstochowa.

The award gala served as a meeting of the scientific community of the region, during which the importance of cooperation between universities and the promotion of scientific and artistic achievements of Silesia was emphasised. The evening was highlighted by a musical performance by Karol Pyka, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof., and his band. The event was closed to the public and was attended by approximately 85 participants. The undertaking had a regional scope, however, the awarding of this prestigious distinction promotes the universities organising the Silesian Scientific Award and emphasises the cooperation between them, providing an opportunity to honour their most outstanding scientists and distinguish those who contribute to the intensive development of the Silesian Scientific Award.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE

↳ over 300 beneficiaries of scientific programmes

Funds from ministerial funds for the implementation of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 have enabled the opening of many additional calls for proposals under the Research Excellence Initiative. Funding was granted to scientific, artistic, science communication and pro-equality activities, as well as initiatives increasing the scientific mobility of staff. As part of the budget of the European City of Science Katowice 2024, four calls for proposals were held last year,

in line with the assumptions of the Research Excellence Initiative implemented for several years by the University of Silesia, as well as other initiatives supporting science:

1. ‘FREEDOM OF RESEARCH | IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE’

→

115 beneficiaries

The ‘Freedom of Research’ call for proposals, carried out as part of the Research Excellence Initiative, is a project that has enjoyed great interest among scientists from the University of Silesia for years.

The ‘Freedom of Research | in the City of Science’ edition was an important element of strategic activities carried out as part of the tasks of the European City of Science Katowice 2024. Funding could be granted to employees of the University of Silesia in Katowice conducting scientific activities.

Under the call for proposals, it was possible to apply for support for various research activities. Scientists could apply for funding of up to PLN 10,000, and in the case of international cooperation support could amount to a maximum of PLN 20,000. The objectives of the ‘Freedom of Research | in the City of Science’ call for proposals included, among others, improving the conditions for the scientific development of employees of the University of Silesia in Katowice, scientific activation and building high-quality scientific achievements. Moreover, the support obtained enabled the exploration of new research topics, as well as dissemination and commercialisation of research results, which resulted in an increased impact of the university’s scientific activity on the development of science in Poland and abroad.

Scientists could obtain funding for activities such as: research and consultative trips, queries, field research, purchase of the equipment and agents necessary to conduct one’s research, as well as the development of music and artistic works. Additionally, the funding scope included the costs of translation and proofreading of texts meant to be published in highly-scored journals.

2. ‘VISIBILITY OF RESEARCH CENTRES | IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE’ → 9 awarded centres

The ‘Visibility of Research Centres | in the City of Science’ call for proposals aimed at increasing international visibility as well as strengthening international cooperation and the influence on the external environment of research centres of the University of Silesia in Katowice.

The applicant in the call could be a director of a research centre. The application had to include a development plan for the research centre along with a detailed cost estimate of activities. The application was to consist of a description of the objectives and results of the research and development activities, consistent with the centre’s research profile and objectives, as well as a schedule containing the most important planned tasks. An important element of the application was a description of cooperation with foreign partners and the external environment, as well as the expected impact of the activities on increasing the visibility of the research centre in the region, Europe and worldwide. The maximum amount of funding that could be applied for was up to PLN 60,000.

3. ‘CREATIVE HORIZON | IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE’

→ 25 awarded artistic projects

The aim of the ‘Creative Horizon | in the City of Science’ call for proposals was primarily to improve the conditions for artistic development of university employees and to build high-quality artistic achievements. For the University, it was crucial to implement interdisciplinary activities, explore new areas of art, disseminate the results of artistic activities and, consequently, increase the impact of the University’s artistic activity on the development of art in Poland and abroad, as well as to develop international artistic cooperation, in particular with partners of the Transform4Europe Alliance. The maximum amount of funding possible to obtain for an artistic project was up to PLN 60,000.

As part of the ‘Creative Horizon | in the City of Science’ call for proposals, one could apply for financing of the costs necessary to create various artistic works, including the development of musical compositions and visual works such as paintings, sculptures, murals, collages and artistic installations. Additionally, costs related to the development of literary texts, novels, cycles of poems and scripts for films, video clips, animations, video and board games were also subject

to financial support. The call also meant to finance the implementation of artistic events or a series of such events, as well as the promotion of artistic activities. The applicant was obliged to declare at least one outstanding artistic achievement that they intend to attain thanks to the granted support. Additionally, a bonus was given for declaring the initiation of documentable international cooperation.

4. ‘SCIENCE COMMUNICATION’ → 120 beneficiaries

The aim of the ‘Science communication’ programme was to support the activities of the University of Silesia’s employees in the area of dissemination and popularisation of science, strengthening the visibility and image of the University and showing the impact of scientific activity on the functioning of society and the economy.

The program was addressed to academic teachers, as well as library workers, scientific documentation and information workers, research and technical workers, engineering and technical workers and employees of the University of Silesia Press, whose previous activities have been characterised by direct or organisational activity in the field of science communication.

The funding covered the costs of activities aimed at communicating and disseminating science at the University of Silesia, as well as strengthening the visibility and image of the University, such as: courses, training, as well as individual trips aimed at equipping employees with the tools necessary to conduct activities to popularise the activities of the University of Silesia. Under the programme, it was possible to obtain funding for the organisation of or active participation in an outreach event, including an artistic event, festival or fair.

The funding also covered the costs of publishing popular science books and articles, translating and proofreading popular science texts, as well as the costs of developing graphic, multimedia and other popular science materials. The maximum amount of funding that could be applied for was PLN 5,000.

5. ‘MOBILITY AND NETWORKING OF ACADEMIC EMPLOYEES’

→

40 scientific trips

The budget of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 also financed over 40 trips of scientists from the University of Silesia to T4EU Alliance partners. This type of mobility helps build lasting academic relationships that enable the development of joint research projects, and supports networking as well as the exchange of experiences in the international scientific community. It constitutes an important element in the development of a scientific career and the promotion of Katowice as a dynamically developing city of science in Europe.

VISIBILITY – RESEARCH EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE

RESEARCH – RESEARCH EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE

6. ‘TECH | STAFF’

trainings building competencies of employees

The Tech | Staff programme assumed co-financing of training aimed at improving the competencies of the academic community of the University of Silesia. The initiative included activities addressed to university employees, focused on improving their research competencies and skills related to the effective use of research, teaching and artistic infrastructure.

Additionally, funding was provided for training for administrative and teaching staff, including training in time management and the use of modern technologies including artificial intelligence in teaching and research processes. The programme also included development training for employees of the University of Silesia Press, supporting the development of their competencies in the field of tools used in publishing activities.

7. FUNDING TO SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SVALBARD POLAR STATION

At the end of 2023, after three years of intensive efforts, the Centre for Polar Studies, in cooperation with the Polish Polar Consortium, finalised the initiative to establish and maintain a logistics and science centre in Svalbard. As a result of these activities, the new unit in Longyearbyen will start operating in March 2024.

Funding from ECSK 2024 covered the rental of premises, support for research activities and the implementation of the necessary logistic measures related to the operation of the station. This project significantly strengthens the presence of the Polish scientific community in the Arctic and opens new opportunities for research in the Svalbard region.

FUTURE OF SCIENCE OBSERVATORY

↳ A unique map of world science

One of the effects of the City of Science is the newly established Future of Science Observatory at the University of Silesia in 2024. This unit analyses data on the state of science and the prospects for its development at the global, Polish and regional levels. Its founder and director is Łukasz Lamża, PhD.

The Future of Science Observatory has three main goals:

1. ➞ Precise, quantitative and transparent analysis of data on publications, participation in research projects, patents and other related data in order to diagnose the current state of scientific research in the Silesian Academic Consortium, against the national and international background;

2. ➞ Forecasting the development of selected scientific fields based on modelling and expert opinions in order to identify key research areas and increase the competitiveness of Silesian science;

3. ➞ Visualising science in an accessible way and popular science information about the current state of scientific research (a preliminary version of one of the visualisations is available at: www.mapanauki.pl).

A key resource of the Future of Science Observatory is its collaboration with one of the world’s leading academic think tanks, the Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) at Georgetown University in Washington. The agreement signed with the Center provides us with access to valuable analytical data and know-how.

In accordance with the regulations of the ‘Visibility of Research Centres | in the City of Science’ and ‘Creative Horizon | in the City of Science’ calls for proposals, they are financed and continued in 2025 as elements of the Research Excellence Initiative of the University of Silesia.

Currently, the Future of Science Observatory uses three main data sources: the first is information on scientific achievements obtained directly from the partner universities of the Academic Consortium using a uniform methodology; the second is the resources of the OpenAlex open database, which can be analysed thanks to algorithms developed specifically for OPN, which allows for automatic assessment of links between scientists and research centres, identification of research teams, key scientific articles, etc.; the third are two CSET products: the MAC and RC databases, which allow for quantitative assessment and comparison on a global scale of parameters such as: the importance of a given research area for the entirety of science (e.g. through citation indicators), the pace of their development, the strength of links with industry (patents, joint publications, financing), and others.

SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMME SILESIA

↳ Financing research that is key to the development of the Region

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE TRANSFORMATION OF SILESIA

The Silesian region faces a huge challenge of multi-area energy, economic, environmental, technological and social transformation. Its scale and pace seem to be unprecedented in the history of our country. One of the guarantors of the sustainable development of the Silesian Voivodeship is the development, implementation and financing of the scientific excellence programme of Silesian public universities as a strategic component, complementing other key areas of intervention in the process of smart and just transformation. It is also a tool that allows for the creation of a completely new image of the region, in which strong science and a high level of education are becoming its emerging industries, complementing the modern technology industry and cultural and art institutions that have been developing over the last quarter-century.

The significant and synergistic potential of the Academic Consortium of Silesian public universities (University of Silesia in Katowice – leader, Silesian University of Technology, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, University of Economics in Katowice, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice, Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice), which was particularly evident during last year's celebrations of the European City of Science Katowice 2024, still remains to some extent untapped, especially in terms of the direct impact of science on positive transformation processes.

VISION OF THE FUTURE: SCIENCE AS THE NEW INDUSTRY OF SILESIA

As a result of this cooperation, strengthened and developed within ECSK 2024, the University of Silesia in Katowice, acting as the leader of the Consortium of seven Silesian public universities, has taken effective steps to create a research financing programme—the Scientific Programme for Silesia. Scientific Programme for Silesia

It is a strategic, multi-year initiative aimed at cooperation in conducting and financing scientific research and development work of Silesian universities, meant to address key challenges related to the transformation of the Silesian region. The programme for financing joint research supporting transformation processes will assume target approach, leading to the linking of the strongest scientists and research groups, as well as the rational use of stateof-the-art research equipment and infrastructure to solve the key challenges facing the region.

PROGRAMME PARTNERS AND STRUCTURE

On 7 December 2024, during the 8th edition of the Silesian Science Festival Katowice, the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science, represented by the rectors of seven universities, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Industry, the Silesian Voivodeship, Metropolis GZM and the City of Katowice, signed a letter of intent regarding the joint implementation of the Scientific Programme for Silesia. Within its framework, scientists from Consortium universities will be able to carry out research aimed at solving the most important challenges of energy, economic, digital, environmental, health, socio-cultural and security transformation, as well as at developing and strengthening cooperation between scientists and the socio-economic and industrial environment. This is the first solution of this type in Poland, in which, thanks to the cooperation of higher education entities, the socio-economic circles and local government, it will be possible to finance research of particular importance for the socio-economic environment.

Activities within the Programme aim to improve the quality of life of the inhabitants of Silesia, support its economic development and stimulate entrepreneurship. The implementation of the Programme should create more favourable living and working conditions, positively influencing the attractiveness of the region for current and future residents—so that it becomes a dynamic area of innovation, attracting talents and investments. The programme aims to respond to the key needs of the region and local communities by providing funding for research projects that aim to develop and implement practical scientific solutions in response to transformation challenges.

I would like to emphasise that this is not about financing regional science, this is about financing solving problems that are important for the development of the region. Silesia and Zagłębie contain an arsenal of research problems because of our industrial heritage and because of the future. Science has plenty to do here, but it requires money.

Prof. Ryszard Koziołek, Rector of the University of Silesia

SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMME FOR

Researchers will be able to obtain financing through competitions, and scientists within inter-university research teams will apply for grants to carry out research projects, including as part of national and international cooperations. The National Science Centre has become the substantive partner of this initiative. Its representatives will provide ongoing support in organising and conducting project competitions, guaranteeing the highest standards of scientific integrity. The Programme partners have also established a Scientific Council whose role includes shaping the Programme’s scientific policy, indicating the directions of its development and operation, as well as identifying challenges and indicating priority research areas.

The Programme involves the creation of a mechanism enabling the transfer of financial resources from the state budget, local government units, universities, enterprises, state-owned companies, legal and natural persons and other entities interested in the implemented activities. The first financial resources for the Programme – for the

implementation of the pilot competition, the announcement of which is planned for spring 2025 – have been reserved in the budget of Metropolis GZM.

PURPOSE

The idea of the Scientific Programme for Silesia was born from the belief that investing in science is profitable and is the best tool for transformation, development and building a strong, competitive economy. Its implementation will contribute to stopping the “brain migration”, strengthening social and economic innovation, as well as promoting Silesia as a place where people enjoy living, working and studying. Due to its innovative and multidimensional nature, the Scientific Programme for Silesia has the potential to become a model to be replicated in other regions of our country and one of the main platforms implementing the idea of science as a new industry of Silesia.

III. GREEN SCIENCE ZONE

ABOUT AN EXTRAORDINARY VALLEY

The Rawa Valley, where the Green Science Zone is planned to be created, is both an experiment and an instrument for the transformation of the city centre of Katowice, the entire city and the region through science and advanced education. Many years ago, the organisers of ECSK 2024 joined forces and individual plans to create scientific and educational tools to improve the quality of life in the city and the region. The revitalisation of the Rawa River and its banks can become visible and suggestive evidence of the involvement of the region’s scientific centres in improving the quality of life of its inhabitants. As a common academic space for Katowice universities and a place of recreation and promotion of science for residents, it will become a unique asset in the city centre of Katowice.

Science and education also serve as the repayment of a debt incurred towards many generations of inhabitants of our region, affected by health-deteriorating jobs, ecological destruction of the environment, wasteful exploitation of mining resources as well as social problems typical for industrial areas. The universities in the city and region should undertake broad, multidisciplinary cooperation in order to ensure systemic diagnosis and modelling of solutions to the problems faced by the city and region. It cannot be done separately. For this purpose, chemical and biological sciences, medicine and technology, social sciences, humanities and education must cooperate with one another, as well as with local government units and business entities in the region. The universities in Katowice and Silesia should be a great public think-tank serving the city and the region inhabitants, and Rawa, as the home of the Green Science Zone, may be the most spectacular effect of these activities and visible changes.

The Green Science Zone is a comprehensive initiative aimed at creating a modern scientific and recreational space that combines ecological, social, educational and innovational aspects. This project not only focuses on academic progress, but also on the sustainable development of the urban space of Katowice, taking into account care for the natural environment and the well-being of its inhabitants. The key element that will distinguish this space from others in the future is its design based on multi-disciplinary research and scientific analyses, as a result of which its elements will support learning and better functioning of its users. The Green Science Zone will serve as a scientific showroom, a permanent scientific exhibition and a living experimental laboratory.

READ: CROSSING RAWA.

AN INTERVIEW WITH THE RIVER

I rejoice at the prospect of the water in my little river becoming cleaner. We began to look at it again and finally see our bad conscience in its dirty depths. But we also saw a plan of redemption. (...)

I couldn't find better arguments. I draw from them not only hope for a better future for Rawa, but also a more fundamental conviction. So as not to reject the troublesome heritage of man. Criticize it, but do not despise it, for it is a testament to the fact that we humans have within us the capacity for constant self-repair.

Prof. Ryszard Koziołek

Rector

of the University of Silesia

People used to call the river Roździanka, then Rawa. It gave life and helped the city develop. It was then poisoned and hidden in collectors, canals and a concrete streambed. The river, instead of an asset, has become a problem. (...)

Is that how it should be? Do we need an artificial riverbed in the centre of Katowice instead of a river? Should the banks of the Rawa River repel instead of attract? (...)

Perhaps the model for its transformation (although the scale of the challenges in Katowice is smaller) should be the renaturalisation of the Emscher River in the Ruhr area? We can learn there how to completely change the image of a place and take care of nature.

Przemysław Jedlecki editor of Gazeta Wyborcza Daily

READ PUBLICATION: THE NEW ATLANTIS

TIMELINE

GREEN SCIENCE ZONE

↳ 2021

THE 5TH SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL KATOWICE BY THE RAWA RIVER

The 5th edition of the Silesian Science Festival Katowice was organised along the Rawa boulevards. This event became a key impulse for discussion about the need to revitalise the river and its importance for residents. The Festival opened with the reading of The Rawa Manifest, and the Festival’s very City and Water Zone focused on urban space, urban design and ecology, launching therefore the Green Science Zone.

↳ 2022

THE PROTOTYPE OF SPACE BY THE RAWA RIVER

The topic of Rawa resulted in the ‘Rawa Laboratory’ project carried out at the GZM Metropolitan School of Prototyping together with the University of Silesia, supervised by Aneta Moczkowska and urban planner Paweł Jaworski. Autumn 2022 was marked by the prototype for the urban space. It introduced greenery, urban furniture and ecological solutions, creating a place that contributed to meetings and discussions about urban spaces. These activities used the ‘Rawa Colour Chart’ developed by Justyna Szklarczyk-Lauer, PhD, DLitt, Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice. Consisting in the artistic documentation of the river based on photographic impressions, the Chart combines science and art to mirror the colours characteristic of the Rawa.

The implementation of the prototype required some changes to the city’s structure, i.e. a section of ul. Moniuszki, a street located by the University of Silesia, had to be permanently closed. In effect, the citizens and students have been given space where they can move freely around an open area adapted for leisure walks and social interactions, instead of navigating between cars through a narrow pavement.

LECTURES AND WORKSHOPS WITH BELINDA TATO

In December, thanks to the financial support of the Metropolis GZM, the University of Silesia was visited by Belinda Tato, an architect at Ecosistema Urbano and a lecturer at Harvard University; she carried out a series of workshops and lectures about sustainable spatial design. The world-renowned specialist shared her experiences in urban social design and inspired further efforts for the Green Science Zone.

DEVELOPMENT THE DOCUMENT

‘GREEN SCIENCE ZONE AND RAWA LABORATORY: CONCEPT FOR COMBINING SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH WITH URBAN PLANNING’

In 2022, the University of Silesia commissioned the development of solutions supporting the process of river restoration while respecting ecology and local needs at the same time. The consultations resulted in the document entitled ‘Green Science Zone and Rawa Laboratory: Concept for Combining Scientific Research with Urban Planning’, developed by Paweł Jaworski, who outlined the vision of transforming Rawa into a green recreational space together with a team of architects and employees of the University of Silesia.

↳ 2023

SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH AND MAPPING OF CREATIVE SPACE AROUND RAWA

Along with the decision to award Katowice the title of the European City of Science 2024, the city requested the Academic Consortium to carry out a diagnosis of the residents’ needs. The entire process carried out by the University of Silesia and the Academy of Fine Arts and Design included the analysis of the residents’ and academic society’s expectations, the investigation of the natural potential of the Rawa and the mapping of creative places in Katowice. The results have made a cornerstone for the Green Science Zone.

CONSOLIDATION COOPERATION OF UNIVERSITIES WITHIN THE ACADEMIC CONSORTIUM

The Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science has established the Interuniversity Team for the Green Science Zone as part of the project ‘Supporting University Consolidation Processes’ financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education; the Team is coordinated by Aneta Moczkowska, the Plenipotentiary of the Rector for the Green Science Zone. The Team has developed the model of changes in public space management and suggested interdisciplinary scientific projects feasible to be implemented along the Rawa boulevards.

In the second stage of the project, the Team developed a complex set of objectives and recommendations regarding key areas of the restoration. As a result, seven possible future scenarios were selected, each with a different vision and direction for the development of the Green Science Zone area. Each scenario was based on previous work and analyses, taking into account the needs of its future users and the scientific and social potential of the area. The solutions aimed not only at the development of science but also at improving the quality of life of residents and creating a modern space for integration.

GREEN SCIENCE ZONE

‘TOPIC: RIVER’ – INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO THE RAWA RIVER

In June, the former seat of the Silesian Museum in Katowice hosted the exhibition ‘Topic: River’, organised by the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice, the Silesian Museum and Metropolis GZM. The exhibition dedicated to the Rawa River combined science and art, using forms such as field recordings, cartography, performance and film.

Rawa, whose history illustrates the effects of urbanisation and environmental degradation, has become a starting point for reflection on the role of humans in transforming nature. The exhibition addressed dilemmas related to renaturalisation and acceptance of irreversible environmental changes. Artistic and research works drew attention to the hybrid nature of Rawa—a body of water that is both natural and transformed by man. The exhibition accompanied the World Urban Forum WUF11.

THE RAWA RIVER AS AN INSPIRATION FOR SCIENCE AND ART

The Rawa River has become an important topic of interdisciplinary artistic and scientific activities conducted at the University of Silesia. Publications Crossing Rawa. An Interview with the River – New Atlantis show the river as a symbol of history as well as the embodiment of transformation and ecocide, therefore inspiring students to reflect on the relationship between humans and nature.

NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR JUST TRANSITION AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE GREEN SCIENCE ZONE

The Academic Consortium, the City of Katowice, and the Metropolis GZM had effectively cooperated with each other and developed a project fact sheet for the National Programme for Just Transition. It served as a base for the feasibility study with variants for the Green Science Zone, covering a series of innovative investments such as: The Centre for the Economy Transformation (University of Economics in Katowice), the Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Chemistry and the Centre for Biotechnology and Biodiversity (University of Silesia), the Centre for Computational Science and Technology (Silesian University of Technology), as well as the Metrolab and the Metropolitan Prototyping School (Metropolis GZM). Although having an investment character, the study included activities related to the reconstruction of blue-green infrastructure and urban space development, including the transformation of the Rawa boulevards.

AWARDS FOR THE EFFORT IN PUBLIC SPACES AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

The prototype space project above the Rawa River, carried out by the University of Silesia in collaboration with GZM, received the prestigious MobilityAction Award from the European Commission for sustainable urban solutions. The project was also awarded by the Society of Polish Town

Planners for its innovative approach to the urban renewal of spaces at the University of Silesia campus, integrating ecological, social, and scientific functions, and serving as a model for modern spatial planning.

WORKSHOPS AND MEETING WITH MICHAŁ SIKORSKI AND JORDAN LACEY, PHD

The University of Silesia collaborated with Michał Sikorski (co-author of the book Spaces of the University, author of the campus concepts for the University of Warsaw and the Paris-Saclay campus in France) and Jordan Lacey, PhD (Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Melbourne). The workshops explored the role of academic spaces, combining science, art, and practical elements in the creation of friendly urban and academic spaces that support not only intellectual development but also community building.

↳ A BREAKTHROUGH YEAR FOR THE GREEN SCIENCE ZONE

CITY OF SCIENCE FOR RAWA AND THE GREEN SCIENCE ZONE PROJECT

In 2024, the focus was primarily on research activities and the social transformation of the Rawa boulevards. The year ended with the development of a master plan for a section of Rawa adjacent to the University of Silesia campus.

STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES AND RESEARCH CONCERNING THE RAWA RIVER

I see enormous potential for the revitalisation of Rawa to become an impulse for a broad ecological and socio-economic transformation of the region. It is crucial to engage all stakeholders—the city, universities, water managers, landowners and residents—in creating coherent projects that will bring real benefits to local communities.

Stephan Treuke, PhD researcher at the Technical University of Dortmund, member of World Urban Parks and German Academy for Spatial Planning and Housing. He specialises in working on large-scale green infrastructure programmes, regional planning, and urban adaptation to climate change.

A research team of the University of Silesia has developed a detailed map of water flow directions across the University of Silesia campus and assessed their environmental impact. To get a deeper understanding of the Rawa River's functioning and the entire water circulation system in its catchment area, research on surface and groundwater monitoring, and atmospheric conditions in the catchment was planned and launched. To this end, a continuous monitoring station was installed to track water flow and key physicochemical parameters of the Rawa River. In December, a research station was installed on the Rawa River, allowing scientists from the University of Silesia to systematically monitor the river’s quality parameters. Currently, a plan for further research is being prepared, which will allow for even better understanding of the possibilities of renaturalising Rawa. This is another important step towards restoring the river’s natural ecological and recreational functions, as well as improving the urban environment in Katowice. Additionally, field and laboratory studies of river water will be conducted, followed by studies on groundwater in the vicinity of the Rawa River. These coordinated actions are a necessary step toward creating an exhaustive restoration and ecosystem protection programme for the Rawa River.

“The revitalisation of Rawa is not only a matter of infrastructure, but above all a change in the approach to urban rivers. We need a comprehensive inventory and valuation of the Rawa Valley, which will allow us to develop effective actions to restore its natural functions and significance in urban space.”

Prof. Damian Absalon hydrologist, geographer, water management specialist

In 2024, strategic documents were drawn up, which set the directions for the development of the University of Silesia campus in the coming years. One of the key studies was the Spatial Development Strategy of the University of Silesia’s Katowice Campus for 2025–2035 (Masterplan), which focuses on the sustainable revitalisation of the campus areas and the Rawa riverside, taking into account modern ecological solutions. As part of this strategy, documentation on stormwater management and maps of water flow directions on campus were also developed, which provide the basis for future spatial planning.

In addition, during work on the planning documents, detailed recommendations regarding small architecture were established, taking into account the needs of users and ecological aspects. On top of that, a specialist analysis of documents and materials in the field of architecture and urban planning was carried out. In parallel to the above-mentioned activities, a report based on

environmental psychology and neuroarchitecture was prepared. The report provided valuable guidance on designing spaces that support users’ well-being, mental health and creativity. These innovative guidelines are an integral part of efforts to create learning spaces that are accessible, inclusive, and supportive to physical and emotional health. International cooperation was also established, an important element of which was the visit of Stephan Treuke, PhD, an expert in river renaturation from the Technical University of Dortmund (Germany). The aim of the visit was to exchange experiences in the field of river renaturation, including the example of the Emscher River, which was transformed from an industrial sewage canal into an ecosystem supporting biodiversity. The meeting with Stephan Treuke, PhD and his lectures were a valuable source of knowledge that can be adapted to the revitalisation process of the Rawa River, improving the quality of the natural environment in Katowice.

“Every day we get closer to realising our dream of creating the Green Science Zone—an open, space of integration where science will be present in the everyday life of the city. It is a place for meetings, conversations and collaboration, but also a symbol of new way thinking about the environment, education and community. The project has been based on cooperation from the very beginning—without it this transformation would not have been possible.”

Aneta Moczkowska

President of the Management Board of the Silesian Voivodeship Transformation Fund, previously Plenipotentiary of the Rector of the University of ilesia for the Green Science Zone

EVENTS

During the year of ECSK celebrations, the following events took place at the planned Green Science Zone:

�� Green Workshop 2024 – Tree – field workshhops on tree care and their role in urban space. During the workshops, participants analysed, among other things, methods of protecting vegetation on the Rawa boulevards and on the campus of the University of Silesia.

�� The cleaning campaign on the banks of the Rawa River, which took place on 18 May 2024, aimed to develop the ecological awareness of the local community and engage it in activities to improve the quality of the natural environment.

�� ‘We Want the River: The Rawa Ceelebration’ –the first river celebration took place on 25 May 2024, and it was organised jointly by the University of Silesia in Katowice and the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice. Its aim was to draw attention to the importance of the Rawa River in urban space and its potential as a place for meetings and artistic activities. The programme included numerous workshops, sound walks, artistic interventions and discussions on the future of Rawa. Participants had the opportunity to take part in activities such as the ‘Rawa Bio-trip’ walk led by Michał Książek, the ‘Free Listening to Rawa – the Acoustic Environment of the River’ workshop with Paulina Walczak-Hańderek and Zofia Paśnik, as well as the ‘I Am a River – Rawa’ performance by the Rives Sisters led by Cecylia Malik. The celebrations concluded with a concert by Michał Zygmunt on the Rawa River.

“Rawa is a difficult river—heavily transformed, with an unclear identity, degraded over the years. But that is precisely why it has the potential to become a unique subject of research and revitalisation activities. The potential of Rawa lies not in returning to nature, but in creating a new quality—an urban river, understood, tamed and embedded in the life of Katowice.”

Prof. Andrzej Kowalczyk

Hydrogeologist, Rector of the University of Silesia in 2016–2020

�� In July 2024, several events were organised: the ‘Rawa Undiscovered’ walk, the ‘Rawo-bicycle: To the Sources of the River’ bike trip and workshops at the Morawa Pond. Thanks to these events, participants had the opportunity to better understand the role of the Rawa River in shaping urban landscape, as well as the impact of this space on health and ecology. The interest in these activities indicated a great need for further ecological education and involvement of residents in the city’s revitalisation processes. Participants also learned about the history of the river during a field trip led by scientists from the University of Silesia—Prof. Andrzej Kowalczyk and Kinga Ślósarczyk, PhD—exploring its transformations in the context of industrialisation and the impact of humans on its condition.

�� The cultural highlight was a series of music evenings called ‘Rawa Cooltury’, organised by the Youth Council for the City of Science, which turned the University of Silesia campus into a space full of energy of young artists. The series included 6 concert evenings from June to August.

�� On the occassion of World Tree Day, on 10 October 2024, on the boulevards of the Rawa River, on the campus of the University of Silesia, a pedunculate oak was planted in the Alley of Polish Trees. The oak symbolises Katowice’s distinction as the European City of Science 2024 and emphasises the city’s commitment to creating spaces that support sustainable development and environmental protection.

�� As part of A<FESTIVAL, young creators had the opportunity to participate in the A<24 marathon, which served as a platform for creating narratives for the Green Science Zone. Urban storytelling workshops and reflections on the joy in the city became a space for creative collaboration on the vision for the restoration of the Rawa and urban spaces. Additionally, on the building of the Faculty of Humanities of the University of Silesia, a mural was created by Bartosz Piórkowski (student of the University of Silesia) and Jan Wojtaś (student of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design), as part of the classes of Joanna Soćko, PhD (UŚ) ‘Flashes. Literary miniatures in practice’. The mural depicts a Remora fish—taken from ‘New Athens’ by Rev. Benedykt Chmielowski—whose image is juxtaposed with a symbol of environmental pollution. This project combines literature, art and ecology, emphasising the human impact on aquatic life.

DISCUSSIONS

The Green Science Zone was widely presented at prestigious international events such as the European Economic Congress (EEC) and the EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF) in Katowice. At the European Economic Congress, the role of the Green Science Zone was discussed in the context of the development of the European City of Science, with Prof. Jerzy Buzek emphasising the importance of restoring the Rawa River for sustainable development and collaboration between science and the city. During ESOF, the Green Science Zone was the main topic of a briefing discussing its impact on the promotion of science and the sustainable development of the region.

In December 2024 and January 2025, an important event promoting activities within the Green Science Zone was an outdoor exhibition held at the Flower Square in Katowice. The exhibition, prepared by the University of Silesia, introduced residents to the idea of the project, its achievements to date and planned activities related to the revitalisation of Rawa as well as the creation of a modern scientific and recreational space in the city centre.

The above activities were complemented by the launch of the Green Science Zone profiles on social media and a series of talks ‘Experts about Rawa’ in August. The interlocutors included, among others, Aleksandra

Nadgórska-Socha, PhD, DSc, Prof. Andrzej Kowalczyk, Andrzej Woźnica, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof., Prof. Robert Krzysztofik and Stephan Treuke, PhD.

Additionally, the series of open meetings ‘Conversations in the Zone’, held from September to October in the spaces of the University of Silesia, was a key element integrating the local community, university students and experts. Available on Spotify and YouTube since November, the videocasts are a valuable source of knowledge and will be accessible as archival materials.

THE KATOWICE CAMPUS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SILESIA IS PART OF THE GREEN SCIENCE ZONE—A SPACE FOR PEOPLE, THE CITY AND NATURE

The University of Silesia in Katowice plans to enter a new stage of development, in which the campus space will become an integral part of the city and the Rawa boulevards, responding to the needs of both the academic community and residents. Based on the Masterplan developed in 2024, a coherent concept was created to transform the campus into an open, green and functional space conducive to learning, work, rest and everyday life. The planned transformation is based on specific spatial and functional solutions aimed at improving the quality of the environment, reducing the presence of cars in the campus centre, and clearly linking it to the urban context.

This vision includes transforming campus streets into green avenues, creating a network of public squares, and developing functions supporting academic and social activity, opening catering spaces, sports facilities, as well as accommodation facilities. The campus space is to be open to residents, and the campus itself will become an active part of the city, well-connected and easily accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. The Rawa River plays a special role in this concept. It is around Rawa that the authors of the innovative solutions plan to create pedestrian and bicycle routes, green and recreational areas, as well as new service and academic development. The space along the river is to gain a landscape and ecological character, becoming an axis organising campus life and an important point connecting it with the city. The plan assumes the establishment of relaxation zones, places for learning and teamwork, event spaces, as well as infrastructure elements supporting active mobility – such as bicycle stations, infrastructure for scooters and minimising car traffic.

One of the main assumptions of the project is to care for the environment and counteract the effects of climate change. The planned blue-green infrastructure will enable the retention of rainwater, limit the urban heat island effect and increase biologically active areas. Various forms of greenery are planned: from urban spaces with a 20% share of greenery, through gardens with 40%, to natural

enclaves with at least 60% of biologically active areas. Surfaces will be designed to be permeable, using recycled and local materials, whereas greenery will fulfil both aesthetic and ecological functions. There are plans to plant vegetation that supports biodiversity and create habitats for urban ecosystems along the Rawa River and throughout the campus.

The campus will also house the Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Chemistry, the Centre for Biotechnology and Biodiversity. There are also plans to establish a new sports and catering centre.

The buildings will activate the space with ground floors open to users, and some of them – the first elements of the Network Science Centre – will act as connectors between the university and the city.

All these activities are intended to create a space that meets the needs of the modern university campus – a place that is simultaneously a space for education, work, social relations and relaxation. Our vision is for the University of Silesia campus in Katowice to become not only a modern learning environment, but also an active participant in urban life and an example of sustainable design that takes into account the needs of people and the environment. These plans have been set out in a strategic document (master plan) and are undergoing in-depth consultations with all stakeholders.

“Rawa can become more than just an interesting hydrological phenomena—it can be an impulse to build a new relationship between its inhabitants and the city. It is a space that invites interpretation, reflection and action. If we retell it and tame it, it will become a symbol of change, not just a remnant of the industrial past.”

Lucyna Sadzikowska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. Coordinator for Research of the Green Science Zone

“The Green Science Zone is a space where ideas, people and institutions meet. This is a project that requires cooperation between many environments – including scientists, city officials, designers and residents—but thanks to this, it has the potential to really change the city. Our task was and is to weave these threads into a coherent, dynamic whole.”

VISUALISATION OF THE CAMPUS

Ewelina Budzińska-Góra

Organisational Coordinator for the Green Science Zone

Masterplan for the University of Silesia Campus in the Green Science Zone

Science as Silesia’s New Industry

University Consolidation

Reasons to Research Funding in Poland

Transformation

Teaching as a Valuable

Housing for Young People

Quality Employment

IMPORTANT DISCUSSIONS IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE

Environmental Responsibility

Jobs of the Future

Cost of Living

Depopulating Silesian Cities

Healthy Living in an Industrial Region

STRUCTURE

10 organisers

7 universities

5 year-round programmes

€3.5 million – EU funding

PEOPLE

590,000+ participants

4,500+ scientists and science communicators

1,932 school groups

2,161 teachers

143 EUCYS contestants

1,270 applications for EU TalentOn

10,000+

Corner

LOCATIONS

ENGAGEMENT

Year of the European

City of Science

� Prof. Georg Bednorz doctor of physical sciences, Nobel Prize winner in physics, honorary doctor of many universities.

↑ Prof. Lewis Dartnell astrobiologist working at the University of Westminster. He explores how we might discover simple, single-celled life on Mars.

← Prof. Tiziano Margiotta professor at the Academy of Fine Arts of Lecce and Bologna in the field of methodology and communication techniques.

↑ David Stainforth expert in the analysis of uncertainty and climate change, employee of the London School of Economics.

� Larry Jackson Deputy Dean for Academic Affairs, Director of the Witten Center for the Core Curriculum at Columbia College, USA.

� Jara Pascual Collabwith CEO, Board member of the K4I Innovation Forum at the European Parliament, Expert on Innovation in the European Parliament and the European Commission.

↑ Sabina Leonelli professor of philosophy and history of science at the University of Exeter, professor of philosophy and history of science and technology at the Technical University of Munich, Research Director of the Ethical Data Initiative.

� Prof. Mike Berners-Lee founder and Director of Small World Consulting, a leading thinker on climate change and the challenges of the 21st century.

� Prof. Maurice Benayoun –also known as 莫奔 MoBen, media art pioneer, theorist, curator, professor in Hong Kong and Paris.

↑ Philip K. Hopke associate professor at the University of Rochester, he served as chair of the Clean Air Advisory Committee of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).

� Prof. Derrick de Kerckhove one of the most significant researchers in the field of new media, as well as science, technology and society (STS).

↑ Prof. Jeff Forshaw professor of elementary particle physics at the University of Manchester.

↑ Isto Huvila – professor at Uppsala University in Sweden, his research interests include information and knowledge management, information work, knowledge organisation, documentation, scientific data, as well as social and participatory information practices.

� Prof. Norman Davies author of bestselling books on European history, world-famous English historian of Welsh descent.

↑ Prof. Souvik Mukherjee associate professor in the field of cultural studies at the Centre for Studies in Social Sciences in Calcutta, a pioneering game researcher from the Indian subcontinent.

↑ Prof. Jeff Forshaw professor of elementary particle physics at the University of Manchester.

↑ Sir Andy Haines co-chair the Lancet Pathfinder Commission on Health in a Zero-emission Economy and co-director the WHO Collaborating Centre on Climate Change, Health and Sustainable Development. He was knighted in 2005 for his services to medicine.

↑ Fran Scott scientist by education and engineer by passion, presenter. Listed in ‘The Progress 1000” ranking of the most influential people in London.

� His Excellency Prof. Ibrahim Bin Saleh Al-Naimi – Undersecretary of State of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Qatar, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue, Qatar

� Anne Applebaum Polish-American journalist, winner of the Pulitzer Prize (2004), columnist for The Atlantic

� Prof. Horst Hoertner outstanding media artist, researcher specialising in human-machine interaction.

↑ Sir Richard Long British sculptor, painter and photographer working in land art.

� Anna Fogtman, PhD member of the Space Medicine Team at the European Space Agency (ESA). She leads radiation protection operations at ESA's European Astronaut Centre in Cologne.

� Toma Susi associate professor at the Faculty of Physics of the University of Vienna, he chaired the working group on open science at the Initiative for Science in Europe.

↑ Valerjan Romanovski, PhD Eng. winter swimmer with many years of experience, multiple Guinness record holder.

GUESTS OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE

WHAT CITY WILL WE LIVE IN?

ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE

Łukasz Lamża, PhD

The year 2024 ended, as you can easily guess, on 31 December. At the time of writing this text, i.e. in early April 2025, the giant inscription ‘European City of Science Katowice 2024’ still appears on the Eye of the City in Katowice, as in dozens of other places in the region. Sooner or later, these signs will probably have to be removed – but maybe not completely? The numbers indicating the year will probably have to be scraped off, but maybe the essence of this title – the words ‘City of Science’ – will stay with us forever?

Today we are all asked “what's next?” Was ECSK 2024 a one-time event after which we will return to “normal”, whatever that may be? Or maybe living in the City of Science will become our new normal?

We know for sure that many processes cannot be stopped. The Scientific Programme for Silesi a will soon be launched in earnest – a unique regional science support programme on a national scale, established by the largest academic centres of Upper Silesia in January 2024. The idea is simple: Silesia is facing a massive transformation in the coming decades. It will be partly forced by local processes, such as the planned closure of hard coal mines and the gradual shift of the region’s economy away from heavy industry. It will also be driven by global processes, such as the transition of the global energy sector to renewable energy sources, the emergence of new technologies, and the need to deal with demographic changes and civilisation diseases. Either way: we know that the future will be different, and science can be one of the mechanisms that help us prepare for it and co-create it.

The Scientific Programme for Silesia will be one of the financial support mechanisms for scientists whose research gives hope for a better, more just transformation. We want to support researchers from our region who deal with issues such as energy transformation, sustainable environment, cultural identity, public health and digital transformation.

The Green Science Zone is also being prepared: a concept of thoroughly refreshing the space of Katowice by revitalising the Rawa River, which flows through the centre of the city but has been shamefully hidden under layers of concrete for decades. Importantly, the axis of the Green Science Zone, marked by the Rawa River, passes through the Katowice campuses of the University of Silesia,

the Silesian University of Technology and the University of Economics. Scientists are therefore not only taking a substantive part in giving our river a second life – they will also be an element of this newly discovered space. The Green Science Zone will be a place where the urban and academic fabrics intertwine.

In a similar spirit, we are creating the Network Science Centre: an alternative to science centres already existing in Poland, such as Hevelianum in Gdańsk or Experymentarium in Łódź. Instead of gathering our educational and popular science resources in a new building, we want to provide residents and guests of our region with spaces scattered around Silesia where science happens. In the science communication centre you will not find a biotechnology laboratory, genome sequencing devices, electron microscopes or real industrial robots. And yet, while walking the streets of Silesian cities, we sometimes pass breathtaking, modern laboratories where research on a global scale is carried out. The Network Science Centre is intended to be both a road map and an entry ticket to the world of real science. Moreover, we have clearly seen during the 8 years of organising the Silesian Science Festival – and we finally confirmed it during the celebration of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 –that at our universities you can easily find great educators and science communicators who will happily and professionally share with everyone the secrets of their research. *

Investments in science build our resilience

→ These types of concrete initiatives – with a plan, budget and institutional support – are of course crucial to achieving our vision for the future. Investments in science build the resilience of the Region and ourselves – its inhabitants – thanks to new opportunities to create and produce solutions that strengthen our actions in times of environmental, social or military crises. The following investment processes are currently underway or will soon begin at the Consortium’ universities:

→ construction of the Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Chemistry of the University of Silesia in Katowice, which is to be put into operation in 2027,

→ construction of the Centre for Biotechnology and Biodiversity of the University of Silesia in Katowice, which is to be put into operation in 2029,

→ reconstruction of the building of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice for the purposes of creating the Centre for Innovative Medical Didactics in Zabrze, which is to be put into operation in 2028,

→ creation of a modern research unit in the field of medicine and pharmacy: the DiagMedFarm Centre of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, which is to be put into operation in 2028,

→ creation of the Security Operations Center (SOC) at the Silesian University of Technology,

→ establishment of the Centre for Renewable Energy Sources and Hydrogen Technologies at the Silesian University of Technology in Rybnik,

→ creation of the Centre for Computational Technology and Sciences at the Silesian University of Technology in Katowice,

→ Silesian Inter-Faculty Laboratory of Aviation Technology of the Silesian University of Technology, which is to be put into operation in 2026,

→ reconstruction of the buildings of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice for the needs of students and academic administration – part of the works will be completed in 2028,

→ expansion of the teaching infrastructure of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design campus in Katowice for art and design purposes, which will be completed in 2028,

→ Academic Zone for Performing Arts – the new building of the Karol Szymanowski

→ Academy of Music with a 300-seat auditorium is to be completed in 2026.

No less important, however, are the “soft” results of what has been happening for years and culminated in 2024: the process of mutual rapprochement between local government, business and scientific institutions in the region. The Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science, established in 2022 (Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice, Academy of Fine Arts and Design

in Katowice, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Silesian University of Technology, Medical University of Silesia, University of Economics in Katowice, and University of Silesia in Katowice), in 2024, already operated almost as one institution.

The formal agreement between our universities is only the result of something much deeper z – a long-term process of getting to know each other, exchanging information and experiences, and making common plans. The Future of Science Observatory, established in 2024, aims, among other things, to analyse what “Silesian science” is, what it will be and what it can become for the region. Such an analysis, as we already know today, must be carried out for the entire Consortium, which, taken together, is one of the greatest scientific forces in our country and a significant player on a European scale. This is another “soft” result of our collaboration: the growing awareness that our collective capabilities are much greater than we could have imagined just a few years ago.

Art is important – as part of activities promoting the ideas of the European City of Science 2024, an artistic installation will be created in the form of a sculpture by Monika Sosnowska near the seat of the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra. Work related to this undertaking is coordinated by the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice, with the financial support of Metropolis GZM.

We are deeply convinced that even though we have only lived in the European City of Science for a year, with each passing month we are closer to making the City of Science our permanent home. Administrative borders and specific names become secondary. Perhaps over time the name “Metropolis of Science”, “Region of Science” or yet another will be adopted, or – most likely – the formal name for the processes currently taking place will be neither widely known nor needed. What is important is that the region around us is changing before our eyes, and science is playing a key role in this transformation. The amount of energy we saw released in 2024 cannot be erased anymore.

↑ Centre of Innovative Medical Education in Zabrze

� Centre for Technology and Computational Sciences, Silesian University of Technology in Katowice � Silesian Laboratory of Aviation Technologies, Silesian University of Technology

↑ Security Operations Center (SOC), Silesian University of Technology

� Silesian Interdisciplinary Centre for Chemistry, University of Silesia in Katowice

↓ DiagMedFarm, Centre for Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

↑ Centre for Biotechnology and Biodiversity, University of Silesia in Katowice

↑ Centre for Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Technologies, Silesian University of Technology, Branch in Rybnik

If you want to build the place where you live and work in line with the idea of the City of Science –sign the declaration. Science is a common good.

DECLARATION OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE

Preamble

The City of Science:

�� is an idea connecting the inhabitants of the Silesian Voivodeship with the university communities of the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science;

�� is a project and a dream to create a large space for meetings, debates, joint reflection, plans and activities that take advantage of the existence of public universities in the region for a better life for the inhabitants of the Silesian Voivodeship.

�� is our heritage renewed thanks to the title of European City of Science Katowice 2024. They should be developed and transformed into projects, programmes, investments and events that will result in a beneficial transformation of the region friendly to all. SIGN

DECLARATION OF THE CITY OF SCIENCE WEBSITE

I WANT TO LIVE IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE BECAUSE:

Science, art and education are the common good of all the region’s inhabitants and efforts should be made to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the presence of public universities in Silesia.

Scientific and higher education centres have existed in our region since the interwar period, but the time has come to recognise science, art and education as the new industry of Silesia, which will make our region as attractive to work and live in as it was thanks to modern industry in the 20th century. Science and education build the resilience of the region and the country, and determine their future, preparing institutions and citizens for the ongoing demographic, cultural, technological, energy and climate changes.

Science and education serve as a repayment of part of the debt owed to many generations of inhabitants affected by health-destroying work, ecological devastation of the environment, predatory exploitation of fossil deposits, and social problems typical of industrial areas. It is the responsibility of universities, region, metropolis and cities to undertake broad, multi-disciplinary cooperation in order to systematically diagnose and model solutions to problems faced by all residents.

The civilisational transformation of the voivodeship does not mean cutting ourselves off from the unique identity of Silesia and Zagłębie. On the contrary, high technical culture, the inhabitants handling advanced technology and work organisation for centuries, primacy of competencies and diligence in the assessment of a human being, and the resulting tolerance constitute an excellent foundation for building a culture of ingenuity, tireless search and the courage to experiment creatively.

By 2030, two-thirds of the world’s population will live in cities. New ways of thinking and practices based on scientific research are needed so that the city can ensure a high quality of life and well-being of its residents. City of Science is a project of building resources, funds and systems of public universities to create conditions for free interaction of scientists and residents. In the City of Science, there is a constant dialogue about how science, art and education can improve our lives individually and collectively.

Many years of industrial exploitation of the region have devastated the natural environment and the health of many generations. Urgent actions are needed to make a broad diagnosis of the health condition of residents and the condition of the natural environment in order to develop a systemic recovery programme. Public universities should be key participants in these efforts.

The City of Science grounds and revitalises a democratic society by promoting an appropriate level of public debate, initiating social dialogue on every topic important to its inhabitants. The scientific community will be concerned to make every effort to find the best possible solution to emerging problems together with citizens and authorities of cities and the region. It is a new agora where – with the help of their universities – free citizens ask questions, discuss, hypothesise and experiment, thus satisfying their natural curiosity for knowledge and thirst for truth.

ATTACHMENT No. 1

Organisers of the ECSK 2024

PROGRAMME STRUCTURES

PROGRAMME COUNCIL OF THE ECSK 2024

• Prof. Władysław Szymański; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Prof. Jarosław Mamczarski; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Juras; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Prof. Andrzej Małecki, MD, PhD; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Celina Olszak; University of Economics

• Prof. Eng. Arkadiusz Mężyk; Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk; Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Tomasz Szczepański, MD, PhD; Medical University of Silesia

• Prof. Ryszard Koziołek; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Marcin Krupa, PhD; City of Katowice

YOUTH COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF SCIENCE

• Michał Szczęsny, student; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Bartosz Dryja-Gołębiowski, student; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Jakub Witkowski, student; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Michał Gębicki, PhD student; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Klaudia Żubryk, PhD student; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Marcel Goldmann, student; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Maciej Geratowski, student; Youth Parliament of the Silesian Voivodeship; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Julia Herbuś, student; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Szymon Mazur, student; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Stanisław Wiśniewski, student; University of Economics in Katowice

PROGRAMME COUNCIL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMME FOR SILESIA

• Prof. Michał Daszykowski; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Mariusz Gąsior, MD, PhD; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Maciej Nowak; University of Economics in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Sebastian Werle; Silesian University of Technology

• Marta Nowacka-Chmielewska, PhD, DSc, Assoc.Prof.; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Justyna Kucharczyk, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Marcin Liana, PhD; National Science Centre

COUNCIL OF CURATORS FOR THE 50 WEEKS IN THE ECSK 2024

• Aleksandra Achtelik, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Batko-Szwaczka, PhD; Medical University of Silesia

• Tomasz Bielak, PhD, DLitt; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agata Blacha-Grzechnik, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Eng. Sławomir Boncel; Silesian University of Technology

• Ewa Brągoszewska, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Silesian University of Technology

• Katarzyna Brukało, DHSc; Medical University of Silesia

• Anna Budzanowska, PhD; City of Katowice

• Karina Cicha, PhD; University of Economics in Katowice

• Artur Fredyk, PhD; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Iwona Gabriel, PhD, DSc; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Bartłomiej Gabryś, PhD; University of Economics in Katowice

• Anna Glenszczyk, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Ewa Głuszek, MSc Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Anna Gnida, PhD, DSc Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Krzysztof Groń, PhD; Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Łukasz Jach, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Jerzy Jarosz, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Michał Jurczyk, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Łukasz Kałębasiak; City of Katowice

• Anna Kiljan, MSc Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Michał Kłosiński, PhD, DLitt; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Sara Knapik-Szweda, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Jan Kozak, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Economics in Katowice

• Jarosław Kozuba, PhD, DSc; Silesian University of Technology

• Aniela Kucharska, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Małgorzata Labus; Silesian University of Technology

• Karolina Lau, MD; Medical University of Silesia

• Marcin Łaciak, PhD; Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Anna Machwic, PhD; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Anna Malinowska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Adam Mańka, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Roman Marchaj, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Justyna Mędrala, MA; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Justyna Michalska, PhD; Silesian University of Technology

• Tomasz Pawlik, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Paweł Piotrowski, PhD; University of Economics in Katowice

• Milena Ratajczak, PhD; New Space Foundation

• Aldona Rosner, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Lucyna Sadzikowska, PhD, DLitt; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Katarzyna Schmidt, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Rafał Setlak, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Kajetan Słomka, PhD, DSc; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Aneta Szczygielska-Łaciak, PhD; Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Łukasz Szewczyk, PhD; University of Economics in Katowice Magdalena Szubka, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Paulina Walczak-Hańderek, MA; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Prof. Zbigniew Waśkiewicz; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Katarzyna Węsierska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Wojnar; Silesian University of Technology

• Robert Wolny, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Economics in Katowice

PROGRAMME COUNCIL FOR THE SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL KATOWICE

• Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek; Rector of the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice

• Prof. Andrzej Małecki; Rector of the Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Prof. Janusz Kapuśniak; Rector of Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa

• Prof. Jarosław Mamczarski; Rector of Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Celina Olszak; Rector of the University of Economics

• Prof. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk; Rector of the Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Ryszard Koziołek; Rector of the University of Silesia in Katowice

• Tomasz Szczepański, MD, DSc; Rector of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• March Warzecha, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Rector of Częstochowa University of Technology

COORDINATORS OF THEMATIC AREAS AND THE SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL KATOWICE

• Prof. Marta Tomczok; University of Silesia in Katowice; Humanities and Social Sciences Zone Coordinator

• Agata Daszkowska-Golec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice; Natural Sciences Zone Coordinator

• Kinga Czerwińska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia; Humanities and Social Sciences Zone Coordinator

• Tomasz Tobolewski, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia; Arts Zone Coordinator

• Rafał Setlak, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology; Technical Sciences Zone Coordinator

• Marcin Łaciak, PhD; Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice; Exact Sciences Zone Coordinator

• Aneta Szczygielska-Łaciak, PhD; Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice; Exact Sciences Zone Coordinator

• Oskar Kozikiewicz, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice; Medicine and Health Zone Coordinator

• Aleksandra Wilk, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice; Medicine and Health Zone Coordinator

COORDINATORS OF SPECIAL PROGRAMMES AND THE SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL KATOWICE

• Prof. Marta Tomczok; University of Silesia in Katowice; EarthWater-Air-Human Zone

• Agnieszka Nowak-Brzezińska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia; STEM Stage

• Anna Maj, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia; AI Zone

• Edyta Sierka, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice; Earth-Water-Air-Human Zone

• Michał Kłosiński, PhD, DLitt; University of Silesia; Gaming Zone

• Roman Marchaj, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice; Civic Stage

• Agata Stronciwilk, PhD; Fulbright Stage

• Andrzej Drobik; Literature Stage ('Granatowe Góry' Word Festival Stage)

• Tomasz Majzel; Literature Stage (Silesian Library's 'Space of Word' Festival Stage)

• Zbigniew Rokita, Literature Stage (Aglo Festival Stage)

• Jan Pomierny, Cosmic Zone

GUEST COMMITTEE OF THE SILESIAN SCIENCE FESTIVAL KATOWICE

• Prof. Eng. Witold Elsner; Częstochowa University of Technology

• Prof. Jacek Jania; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Jerzy Łukasiewicz; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Marta Tomczok; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agata Daszkowska-Golec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Damian Gruszka, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Andrzej Katunin, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Silesian University of Technology

• Michał Kłosiński, PhD, DLitt; University of Silesia

• Seweryn Kowalski, PhD, DSc; University of Silesia

• Anna Maj, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Małgorzata Myśliwiec, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Marta Nowacka-Chmielewska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Agnieszka Nowak-Brzezińska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Grzegorz Olszański, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Lucyna Sadzikowska, PhD, DLitt; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Edyta Sierka, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Turska-Kawa, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Robert Wolny, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Economics in Katowice

• Michał Brol, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; Uniwersytet Śląski

• Renata Jankowska, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; Uniwersytet Śląski

• Katarzyna Kowalska-Szojda, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Dagna Kocur, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Marcin Łaciak, PhD; Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Rafał Setlak, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Aneta Szczygielska-Łaciak, PhD; Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

• Aleksander Fangor; University of Silesia

• Michał Gębicki; University of Silesia in Katowice

PROGRAMME COUNCIL FOR ICEQ 2024

• Katarzyna Trynda, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Katarzyna Sujkowska, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Biegas; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Iwona Bańska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• • Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Justyna Kucharczyk, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Lesław Tetla, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Marta Więckowska, PhD; Academy of Fine Arts and Design

• Rajmund Tomik, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Izabela Zając-Gawlak, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Anna Chrobok; Silesian University of Technology

• Tomasz Pawlik, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Marek Roszak, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Jerzy Stojko, MD, PhD; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Ewa Chodurek, DPharm, DSc; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Patrycja Dolibog, MD, PhD; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Wojciech Dyduch; University of Economics in Katowice

EUCYS 2024 JURY

• Prof. Milan Macek; Charles University

• Franco Algieri; Webster Vienna University

• Henrik Per Göran Aronsson; University of Gothenburg

• Victoria Bloodworth; Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy

• Attila Borics; Hungarian Academy of Sciences

• Tony Fagan; University College Dublin

• Milena Horvat; Institut Jozef Stefan

• Hans Langeveld; Biomass Research

• Morten Lennholm; EUROfusion (JET), Culham Science Centre

• Mariya Lyubenova; European Southern Observatory, Munich

• Lidiya Matija; University of Belgrade

• Mária Minárová; Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava

• María Ángeles Moro Sánchez; Universidad Complutense Madrid

• Estelle Mossou; ESRF

• Margus Niitsoo; Music Education LLC, Tartu

• Luisa Pereira; Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto

• Bojan Ribic; Zagreb City Holding

• Lina Tomasella; INAF Italian National Institute for Astrophysics, Padova

• Mira Van Thielen; Ghent University Hospital

• Emer Jones Westmuckett; MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge

• Anna Zajakina; Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre

EU TALENTON JURY

• Ewa Łupikasza, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice | Adaptation to Climate Change

• Alexandre Gagnon, PhD; Liverpool John Moores University | Adaptation to Climate Change

• Dariusz Ignatiuk, PhD, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice | Adaptation to Climate Change

• Aleksandra Auguściak-Duma, MD; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice | Cancer Prevention & Care Arena

• Prof. Gabriela Kramer-Marek; Institute of Cancer Research in London, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice | Cancer Prevention & Care Arena

• Roberta Gatta, PhD; Gdańska University | Cancer Prevention & Care Arena

• Andrzej Woźnica, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia in Katowice | Restore Our Oceans And Waters Arena

• Prof. Vahid Nourani; University of Tabriz, Iran; Near East University, Cyprus; Charles Darwin University, Australia | Restore Our Oceans And Waters Arena

• Yunqing Xuan, PhD; Swansea University | Restore Our Oceans And Waters Arena

• Katarzyna Ponikowska, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice | Climate-Neutral & Smart Cities Arena

• Francisco Mendes Palma; Universidade Católica Portuguesa | 100 Climate-Neutral & Smart Cities Arena

• Prof. Monika Kuffer; University of Twente | Climate-Neutral & Smart Cities Arena

• Prof. Zita Kriaučiūnienė; Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania | A Soil Deal For Europe Arena

• Marta Pogrzeba, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Institute for Ecology of Industrial AreasIETU | A Soil Deal For Europe Arena

• Diego Soto Gomez; University of Cartagena| A Soil Deal For Europe Arena

• Lucien Geelhoed; National Agency for Scientific and Technological Culture in Portugal | Eu TalentOn Experts

• Pedro Russo; Leiden University, the Netherlands | Eu TalentOn Experts

• Andrea Stephany Diaz; OncoSwab | Eu TalentOn Experts

• Katarzyna Geiger; Green Dreams Labs | Business Experts

• Robert Bieleń; Uniwersity of Silesia, Silesian University of Technology, Cracow University of Technology | Business Experts

• Monika Habrzyk; Planet Heroes | Business Experts

• Przemysław Pyziel; Business Experts

• Alberto Ramos Vernieri; National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Argentina | Business Experts

ESOF 2024 STEERING COMMITTEE

• Prof. Ryszard Koziołek; Rector of the University of Silesia in Katowice, ESOF 2024 Champion

• Matthias Girod; EuroScience Secretary General

• Marcin Krupa, PhD; Mayor of Katowice

• Anna Budzanowska, PhD; ESOF 2024 Champion

• Prof. Władysław Szymański; Rector of Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek; Rector of the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Juras; Rector of Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Arkadiusz Mężyk; Rector of the Silesian University of Technology

• Tomasz Szczepański, MD, PhD; Rector of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Celina Olszak; Rector of the University of Economics

ESOF 2024 PROGRAMME COMMITTEE

• Prof. Michał Daszykowski; Vice-Rector for Research and Finance, University of Silesia in Katowice; Chair

• Prof. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk; Vice Rector for Science and International Cooperatio, Silesian University of Technology; Vice-Chair

• Prof. Wanda Palacz; Vice Rector for Education and Science, Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music; Member

• Justyna Kucharczyk, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Vice Rector for Research and Partnerships, Academy of Fine Arts and Design

• Bogdan Bacik, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Vice Rector for Science, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education; Member

• Prof. Katarzyna Mizia-Stec, MD, PhD; Vice Rector for Science and International Cooperation, Medical University of Silesia; Member

• Prof. Maciej Nowak; Vice Rector for Science and Academic Staff Development, University of Economics in Katowice; Member

• Prof. Zbigniew Błocki; Jagiellonian University, Kraków

ESOF 2024 MEDIA COMMITTEE

• Chairman: Jarosław Juszkiewicz, science journalist

• Vice-Chairman: Jacek Szymik-Kozaczko, Spokesperson for the University of Silesia in Katowice

• Anna Leszczyńska-Rożek, science journalist

• Elżbieta Wieteska, Editor-in-Chief of Świat Nauki (Science World)

• Anna Ślązak, Editor-in-Chief of PAP Nauka w Polsce (Polish Press Agency Science in Poland)

• Piotr Kieraciński, Editor-in-Chief of Forum Akademickie (Academic Forum)

• Ewelina Kosałka-Passia, Editor-in-Chief at Radio Katowice

• Przemysław Jedlecki, Gazeta Wyborcza Katowice Daily

• Marcin Zasada, Editor-in-Chief of Dziennik Zachodni Daily

• Maciej Stachura, Secretary of the City of Katowice

• Milica Momcilovic, President of the World Federation of Science Journalists

• Tony Lockett, Head of Communications at the European Research Council

• Clive Cookson, Science Editor of Financial Times UK

ICEQ 2024 HONORARY COMMITTEE

• Prof. Jarosław Mamczarski; Rector of Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Prof. Grzegorz Hańderek; Rector of the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice

• Prof. Andrzej Małecki, MD, PhD; Rector of the Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk; Rector of the Silesian University of Technology

• Tomasz Szczepański, MD, PhD; Rector of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Prof. Eng. Celina M. Olszak; Rector of the University of Economics in Katowice; President of the Regional Conference of Rectors of Academic Universities

• Prof. Ryszard Koziołek, the Rector of the University of Silesia; Vice-President of the Conference of Rectors of Polish Universities

• Anna Budzanowska, PhD; ESOF 2024 Champion; Plenipotentiary for the ECSK 2024

• Marcin Czaja; Director of the Department of University Organisation, Education and Student Affairs at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education

• Aleksandra Dyla, MA; Silesian Curator of Education

• Krzysztof Jóźwik; Rector of the Lodz University of Technology; President of the Conference of Rectors of Polish Technical Universities

• Prof. Bogumiła Kaniewska; Rector of the Adam Mickiewicz University Poznań; President of the Conference of Rectors of Academic Schools in Poland

• Wojciech Karczewski, PhD; Director of the National Agency for Academic Exchange

COMMITTEE FOR SILESIAN SCIENTIFIC AWARD

• Prof. Eng. Sebastian Werle; Silesian University of Technology

• Prof. Eng. Witold Elsner; Częstochowa University of Technology

• Prof. Maciej Nowak; University of Economics in Katowice

• Prof. Katarzyna Mizia-Stec, MD, PhD; Medical University of Silesia

• Justyna Kucharczyk, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Prof. Michał Krzysztofik, Assoc. Prof.; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Bogusław Przywora, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; J an Długosz University in Częstochowa; Committee Chair

• Agnieszka Turska-Kawa, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; University of Silesia

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURES

EXECUTIVE TEAM

Justyna Szostek-Aksamit, PhD; Managing Director for the ECSK 2024; Plenipotentiary for the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science, University of Silesia

Ewelina Kajzerek; Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 at the Katowice City Hall

Ewa Gajewska-Nowara; Deputy Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 at the Katowice City Hall; City of Katowice Liaison Officer

Anna Budzanowska, PhD; Mayor’s Representative for the ECSK 2024

Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

Agnieszka Karpa; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

Magdalena Palupska; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

Joanna Śrubarczyk; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

Dagmara Piskorz; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at the University of Economics in Katowice

Aleksandra Śnieżek-Gornig; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at the Silesian University of Technology

Anna Tilszer; Executive Coordinator for the ECSK 2024 at the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

Dariusz Laska; Chancellor of the University of Silesia

Sylwia Ledwoch; Director of the Office for the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Radosław Aksamit; Executive Director for Communication and Management of the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Martyna Fołta, Creative Director for Marketing of the ECSK 2024

Łukasz Lamża, PhD; Creative Director for 50 Weeks in the ECSK 2024; Copernicus Center for Interdisciplinary Studies; Jagiellonian University

Krzysztof Pająk; Executive Director for 50 Weeks and the Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024

Ewelina Sporysz; Executive Director for Visits, Academic Events, and Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024

Dawid Matuszek, PhD; Executive Director for ESOF; University of Silesia

Aleksandra Pieniążek; Director for EU Funds for ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Gabriela Wilczyńska; Executive Director for the Youth in the City of Science Programme for the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Edyta Sierka, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Coordinator for Citizen Science; University of Silesia in Katowice

Aleksandra Kwiatkowska; Executive Head of the EU TalentON project; Coordinator for the Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024; Coordinator for Seeds of Science; University of Silesia

Paulina Świtała; Executive Head of the EUCYS Project; Coordinator for the YearRound Programme in the ECSK 2024; Coordinator for Science in the City Festival; University of Silesia

Joanna Müller; Coordinator for Fundraising; Coordinator for the Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Małgorzata Poszwa; Executive Head of the EU TalentON Project; Spokesperson for the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Jacek Szymik-Kozaczko; Spokesperson and Media Coordinator for the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

Monika Bazan; Executive Head of the EUCYS Project; Coordinator for the Teachers for Teachers Programme; University of Silesia

Katarzyna Więcek-Jakubek; Coordinator for Talent Fair; University of Silesia

Piotr Kaszuba; Coordinator for FameLab; University of Silesia

Joanna Wantuła; Executive Coordinator for the Educational Programme; University of Silesia

Ewelina Budzińska-Góra; Coordinator for the Green Science Zone Programme; University of Silesia

Aneta Moczkowska, Representative of the USil Rector for the Green Science Zone; University of Silesia

Anna Szrama; Coordinator for ECSK 2024 Partners; University of Silesia

Marzena Żurawska; Coordinator for Official Relations; University of Silesia

Ewa Ciborowska; Coordinator for Official Relations; University of Silesia

Patrycja Kierlik; Coordinator of the ESOF 2024 Team; University of Silesia

SELECTION COMMITTEE REVIEWING SUBMITTED PROPOSALS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PUBLIC TASKS IN 2024 IN THE FIELDS OF SCIENCE, HIGHER EDUCATION, EDUCATION AND UPBRINGING UNDER THE ‘EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE KATOWICE 2024’ PROGRAMME

• Chair: Waldemar Bojarun; Deputy Mayor of the City of Katowice

• Deputy Chair: Ewelina Kajzerek; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Member: Ewa Gajewska-Nowara; Chief Expert at the Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Member: Katarzyna Strzelczyk; Chief Expert at the Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Member: Anna Śmieszek-Szkutek; Senior Inspector at the Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Member: Grażyna Burek; Deputy Head of the Department of Education and Sports

• Member: Magdalena Floriańska; Head of the Section for Organisation, Support, and Educational Development at the Department of Education and Sports

• Member: Jowita Hercig; Deputy Head of the Department of Culture

• Member: Agnieszka Lis; Mayor’s Representative for Non-Governmental Organisations

• Member: Justyna Buchalik; Head of the Department of Social Communication

• Member: Łukasz Gawroński; Head of the Section for the Brand of the City at the Department of Promotion

• Advisory Member: Sylwia Ledwoch; Director of the Office for the ECSK 2024 at the University of Silesia; Plenipotentiary of the Leader of the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science

• Advisory Member: Lucyna Sadzikowska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Plenipotentiary of the Leader of the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science

COMMITTEE FOR REVIEWING PROPOSALS FOR ORGANISING EVENTS AND INITIATIVES OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE 2024

• Chair: Waldemar Bojarun; Deputy Mayor of the City of Katowice

• Deputy Chair: Ewelina Kajzerek; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 at the Katowice City Hall

• Secretary: Anna Śmieszek-Szkutek; Senior Inspector at Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Coordinator: Ewelina Sporysz; Head of the University Events Office; Executive Director for Visits and Academic Events of the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

• Dagmara Piskorz; Director of Marketing Centre; University of Economics

• Agnieszka Put, PhD; Manager of the Communication Unit; University of Economics

• Grzegorz Mikrut, PhD; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Paweł Krzywda, PhD; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Magdalena Kudewicz-Kiełtyka; Silesian University of Technology

• Michał Henke; Medical University of Silesia

• Sylwia Ledwoch; Director of the Office for the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

• Krzysztof Pająk; Executive Director for 50 Weeks in the ECSK 2024; University of Silesia

• Justyna Buchalik; Head of the Department of Social Communication; City of Katowice

• Grażyna Burek; Deputy Head of the Department of Education and Sports; City of Katowice

• Marta Chmielewska; Head of the Department of Promotion; City of Katowice

• Magdalena Floriańska; Head of the Section for Organisation, Support, and Educational Development at the Department of Education and Sports; City of Katowice

• Ewa Gajewska-Nowara; Chief Expert at Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; Deputy Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 at the Katowice City Hall; City of Katowice

• Maciej Grymowicz; Chief Expert at Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; City of Katowice

• Jowita Hercig; Deputy Head of the Department of Culture; City of Katowice

• Agnieszka Lis; Mayor’s Representative for Non-Governmental Organisations; City of Katowice

• Barbara Miś; Head of the Section for Small and MediumSized Enterprise at the Department of Investor Services; City of Katowice

COMMITTEE FOR REVIEWING APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDING EVENTS, INITIATIVES, AND SPECIAL PROJECTS ORGANISED AS PART OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE KATOWICE 2024 AT THE UNIVERSITY OF SILESIA IN KATOWICE, WITHIN THE CITY–REGION–ACADEMIA STREAM

• Prof. Jerzy Łukasiewicz

• Rev. Prof. Artur Malina

• Prof. Barbara Mikołajczyk

• Rev. Prof. Leszek Szewczyk

• Prof. Piotr Świątek

• Prof. Waldemar Wojtasik

• Agata Daszkowska-Golec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.

• Zbigniew Feliszewski, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.

• Mariusz Grabiec, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.

• Monika Jagielska, PhD, DLitt

• Seweryn Kowalski, PhD, DSc

• Agnieszka Nowak-Brzezińska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.

• Grzegorz Olszański, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.

• Natalia Pawlus, PhD, DLitt

• Marek Ruman, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.

• Lucyna Sadzikowska, PhD, DLitt

• Edyta Sierka, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.

• Patrycja Szostok, PhD, DLitt

• Magdalena Szyndler, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.

• Dawid Matuszek, PhD

• Maciej Stanek, PhD

• Sylwia Ledwoch

• Justyna Olesińska

• Krzysztof Pająk

• Paulina Pruchnicka (Secretary)

• Ewelina Sporysz (Coordinator)

• Joanna Trąbka (Secretary)

• Aleksandra Wal (Secretary)

COMMITTEE FOR REVIEWING APPLICATIONS FOR FUNDING EVENTS, INITIATIVES, AND SPECIAL PROJECTS ORGANISED AS PART OF THE

EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE KATOWICE 2024 AT THE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SILESIA IN KATOWICE, WITHIN THE CITY – REGION –– ACADEMIA STREAM

• Prof. Katarzyna Mizia-Stec, MD, PhD

• Mariusz Miśkiewicz, PhD in Law

• Michał Henke

• Anna Tilszer

• Justyna Bula

INTERUNIVERSITY TEAM FOR PROMOTION, COMMUNICATION, AND MEDIA RELATIONS OF THE EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE KATOWICE 2024

University of Silesia in Katowice

• Radosław Aksamit; Executive Director for Communication and Management of the ECSK 2024

• Martyna Fołta, Creative Director for Marketing of the ECSK 2024

• Jacek Szymik-Kozaczko; Spokesperson and Media Coordinator for the ECSK 2024

• Małgorzata Poszwa; Executive Head of the EU TalentON Project; Spokesperson for the ECSK 2024

• Artur Adamczyk

• Adam Bała

• Iwona Cichy, PhD

• Weronika Cygan-Adamczyk

• Maria Dębska

• Radosław Hojka

• Piotr Kaszuba

• Aleksandra Kiernas

• Małgorzata Kłoskowicz, PhD

• Przemysław Kowal

• Karol Kurp

• Olimpia Orządała

• Anna Rynk

• Piotr Skrzynecki

• Bartłomiej Stelmach

• Katarzyna Suchańska

• Małgorzata Biylnik

University of Economics in Katowice

• Dagmara Piskorz; Director of the Marketing Centre

• Marek Kiczka; Spokesperson

• Angelika Gagracz; Manager of the Promotion Unit at the Marketing Centre

• Agnieszka Put, PhD; Manager of the Communication Unit at the Marketing Centre

• Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agata Pustułka; Spokesperson

• Michał Henke

Medical University of Silesia

• Agata Pustułka, Spokesperson

• Michał Henke

Silesian University of Technology

• Krzysztof Gronowicz; Director of the Centre for Promotion and Communication

• Jadwiga Witek; Spokesperson (until September 2024)

• Iwona Flanczewska-Rogalska; Spokesperson (from September 2024), Deputy Director of the Centre for Promotion and Communication

• Natalia Miler

Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Piotr Rodak

• Karolina Frączek

• Oskar Kozikiewicz

• Kamila Świeca

Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Mirosław Rusecki, Spokesperson

• Magdalena Palupska

Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Anna Matyja

• Łukasz Kałębasiak

TEAM OF SPOKESPERSONS FOR ECSK 2024

• Małgorzata Poszwa; Spokesperson for the University of Silesia; Spokesperson for the ECSK 2024

• Jacek Szymik-Kozaczko; Spokesperson for the University of Silesia in Katowice; Spokesperson for the ECSK 2024

• Marek Kiczka; Spokesperson for the University of Economics

• Jadwiga Witek; Spokesperson for the Silesian University of Technology (until September 2024)

• Izabela Flanczewska-Rogalska; Spokesperson for the Silesian University of Technology (since September 2024)

• Agata Pustułka; Spokesperson for the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Mirosław Rusecki; Spokesperson for the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Piotr Rodak; Chancellor of Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

ORGANISING TEAM FOR EUCYS 2024

• Karen Slavin; Policy Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

• Maria Mancero; Communications Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

• Slaven Misljencevic; Policy Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

• Irina Tiron; Project Adviser; Research Executive Agency (REA)

• Tomasz Rożek, PhD; EUCYS Ambassador

• Aleksandra Pieniążek; Head

• Paulina Świtała; Executive Head

• Monika Bazan; Executive Head

• Joanna Müller; Secretary of the Jury

• Hanna Kostrzewska; Coordinator for Administration and Finance

• Anna Rynk; Coordinator for Promotion and Communication

• Kacper Skalmierski; Travel Coordinator

• Natalia Bareta; Travel Coordinator

• Magdalena Jezierska; Coordinator for National-Level Cooperation

• Katarzyna Suchańska; Team for Promotion and Communication

• Sylwia Krawczyk; Team for Promotion and Communication

• Magdalena Lier; Project Assistant

ORGANISING TEAM FOR EU TALENTON

• Katharina Buse; Project Adviser; Research Executive Agency (REA)

• Karen Slavin; Policy Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

• Maria Mancero; Communications Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

• Slaven Misljencevic; Policy Officer at the DG for Research and Innovation (European Commission)

• Łukasz Lamża, PhD; Programme Coordinator

• Aleksandra Pieniążek; Head

• Małgorzata Poszwa; Executive Head

• Aleksandra Kwiatkowska; Executive Head

• Dobromiła Stano; Coordinator for Administration and Finance

• Anna Szrama; Coordinator for Experts

• Piotr Skrzynecki; Coordinator for Promotion and Communication

ORGANISING TEAM FOR ESOF 2024

• Dawid Matuszek, PhD; ESOF 2024 Director

• Team Coordinator: Patrycja Kierlik; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Team Supervisor: Weronika Wolany, PhD Eng.; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Maciej Bisaga, PhD; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Aleksandra Więcek, PhD; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Małgorzata Krasuska-Korzeniec; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Lniak, PhD; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Emilie Szwajnoch; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Stella Hansel-Bielówka, PhD; Science Department; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Babczyńska, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.; Faculty of Natural Sciences; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Elżbieta Łepkowska, PhD; Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Silesia in Katowice

• Katarzyna Papaja, PhD; Faculty of Humanities; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Mariusz Miśkiewicz, PhD in Law; Vice-Chancellor for Research; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

LOGISTICS TEAM FOR ESOF 2024

• Ewelina Kajzerek; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; Katowice City Hall

• Ewa Gajewska-Nowara; Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; Katowice City Hall

• Strzelczyk Katarzyna; Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; Katowice City Hall

• Anna Śmieszek- Szkutek; Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation; Katowice City Hall

PRODUCERS OF 50 WEEKS IN THE CITY OF SCIENCE

• Małgorzata Balewska; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Paulina Bara; Silesian University of Technology

• Hanna Biela; Silesian University of Technology

• Ewelina Budzińska-Góra; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Weronika Cygan-Adamczyk; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Angelika Gagracz; University of Economics in Katowice

• Ewa Głuszek; Silesian University of Technology

• Kamila Golos; Silesian University of Technology

• Damian Hadryś, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Silesian University of Technology

• Ilona Hajok, PhD; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Jankowska; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Anna Kądziołka-Gil; Silesian University of Technology

• Aneta Knapik; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Oskar Kozikiewicz; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Aleksandra Kwiatkowska; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Joanna Marek; Silesian University of Technology

• Aleksandra Nocoń, PhD; University of Economics in Katowice

• Aleksandra Nyga, PhD Eng.; Silesian University of Technology

• Krzysztof Pająk; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Dagmara Piskorz; University of Economics in Katowice

• Barbara Probierz, PhD; University of Economics in Katowice

• Agata Pustułka; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Mirosław Rusecki; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Agnieszka Sepioło; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Agnieszka Sikora, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Smykla; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Anna Szrama; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Aleksandra Śnieżek; Silesian University of Technology

• Joanna Śrubarczyk; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Paulina Świtała; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Cecylia Tatoj, PhD; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Robert Wieszalaa; Silesian University of Technology

• Aleksandra Wilk; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

WORKING GROUP IN CHARGE OF EFFORTS RELATED TO KATOWICE’S APPLICATION FOR AND AWARD OF THE TITLE OF EUROPEAN CITY OF SCIENCE 2024

• Head: Waldemar Bojarun; Deputy Mayor of the City of Katowice

• Deputy Head: Maciej Stachura, Secretary of the City of Katowice

• Deputy Head: Ewelina Kajzerek; Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 at the Katowice City Hall

• Cooperation Leader for the European City of Science Katowice 2024: Ewa Gajewska-Nowara; Deputy Managing Director for the ECSK 2024 at the Katowice City Hall

• Secretary of the Team: Anna Śmieszek-Szkutek; Inspecting Officer; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Anna Budzanowska, PhD; Mayor’s Representative for the ECSK 2024

• Justyna Szostek-Aksamit, PhD; Director of the Rector’s Office at the University of Silesia; Managing Director for the ECSK 2024

• Justyna Buchalik; Head of the Department of Social Communication

• Marta Chmielewska; Head of the Department of Promotion

• Ewa Czajka; Head of the Accounting Department

• Małgorzata Domagalska; Head of the Department of European Funds

• Małgorzata Kwapisz; Department of Budget

• Monika Maniecka; Head of the Department of Organisation and Management

• Katarzyna Staś; Head of the Department of City Development

• Monika Sobczyk; Head of the Public Procurement Office

• Grzegorz Kania; Legal Advisor; Legal Department

WORKING GROUP IN CHARGE OF IMPLEMENTING THE GREEN SCIENCE ZONE PROJECT

• Head: Marcin Krupa, PhD; Mayor of the City of Katowice,

• Deputy Head: Mariusz Skiba; Deputy Mayor of the City of Katowice

• Coordinator: Aneta Moczkowska; external expert

Katowice City Hall

• Małgorzata Domagalska; Head of the Department of European Funds

• Katarzyna Staś; Head of the Department of City Development

• Magdalena Cyganek; Mayor’s Representative for the Science Centre

• Ewelina Kajzerek; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

University of Silesia in Katowice

• Agnieszka Maj; Vice-Chancellor for Investments and Logistic Management

• Dariusz Laska; Vice-Chancellor for Development and Industry Cooperation

University of Economics in Katowice

• Robert Wolny, PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof.

• Artur Ochojski; Department of Strategic and Regional Studies

• Paweł Kadłubiak; Chancellor

Silesian University of Technology

• Magdalena Letun-Łątka; Director of the Centre for Incubation and Technology Transfer

• Jan Filipczyk; Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering

• Ewa Steiman; Deputy Head of the Technical and Investment Office

Metropolis GZM

• Łukasz Łata; Deputy Director of the Socio-Economic Development and Cooperation Department

• Bartosz Rozpondek; Director of the Department of External

WORKING GROUP IN CHARGE OF SECURING AND IMPLEMENTING THE ‘EUROPEAN SCIENCE IN THE CITY NEXT GENERATION’ GRANT

• Head: Anna Budzanowska, PhD; Mayor’s Representative for the ECSK 2024

• Deputy Head: Małgorzata Mondraszek; Head of the Department of European Funds

• Deputy Head: Dariusz Laska; Chancellor of the University of Silesia

• Coordinator: Magdalena Sołtys; Chief Expert; Department of European Funds

Katowice City Hall

• Ewelina Kajzerek; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Ewa Gajewska-Nowara; Chief Expert; Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Katarzyna Strzelczyk; Chief Expert; Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Aneta Paziewska; Inspecting Officer; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Maciej Grymowicz; Chief Expert; Office of the Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Anna Śmieszek-Szkutek; Inspecting Officer; Mayor’s Representative for Strategic Event Organisation

• Justyna Buchalik; Head of the Department of Social Communication

• Aleksandra Sontag; Chief Expert; Department of Social Communication

• Patrycja Marszałek; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Social Communication

• Anna Pomykała; Head at the Department of Social Communication

• Sandra Hajduk; Spokesperson; Department of Social Communication

• Joanna Górska; Head at the Department of Social Communication

• Michał Malina; Inspecting Officer; Department of Social Communication

• Michał Mendala; Chief Expert; Department of Social Communication

• Sławomir Rybok; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Social Communication

• Dariusz Czapla; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Social Communication

• Anna Królewiecka; Head at the Accounting Department

• Karolina Grudzień; Chief Expert; Accounting Department

• Wioleta Zychla; Senior Inspecting Officer; Accounting Department

• Joanna Skatuła; Chief Expert; Accounting Department

• Lena Tokarz; Chief Expert; Department of Organisation and Management

• Monika Hornik-Młynarska; Chief Expert; Department of Organisation and Management

• Marta Chmielewska; Head of the Department of Promotion

• Łukasz Gawroński; Head at the Department of Promotion

• Katarzyna Włodarczyk; Chief Expert; Department of Promotion

• Krzysztof Smętkiewicz; Chief Expert; Department of Promotion

• Barbara Wójtowicz; Chief Expert; Department of Promotion

• Michalina Bajor; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Promotion

• Magdalena Czekajska; Chief Expert; Department of Promotion

• Dorota Drabek; Inspecting Officer; Department of Promotion

• Agnieszka Starowicz-Mańka; Administration Support; Department of Promotion

• Joanna Czarna; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Promotion

• Monika Winkler; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Promotion

• Marta Ferens; Senior Inspecting Officer; Department of Promotion

Representing the University of Silesia in Katowice

• Justyna Szostek-Aksamit, PhD; Managing Director for the ECSK 2024; Plenipotentiary for the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science

• Sylwia Ledwoch; Director of the Office for the ECSK 2024

• Radosław Aksamit; Executive Director for Communication and Management of the ECSK 2024

• Martyna Fołta; Creative Director for Marketing of the ECSK 2024

• Ewelina Sporysz; Executive Director for Visits and Academic Events of the ECSK 2024

• Gabriela Wilczyńska; Executive Director for the Youth in the City of Science Programme for the ECSK 2024

• Krzysztof Pająk; Executive Director for the Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024

• Dawid Matuszek, PhD; Executive Director for ESOF

• Aleksandra Pieniążek; Director for EU Funds for ECSK 2024

• Hanna Kostrzewska; Expert at Project Department

ORGANISING TEAM FOR CITY – REGION –– ACADEMIA STREAM

• Ludwika Konieczna-Nowak, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof.; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Magdalena Palupska; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Marcelina Marońska; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Michał Henke; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Karolina Rzepiejewska; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Justyna Bula; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Dagmara Piskorz; University of Economics in Katowice

• Agnieszka Put; University of Economics in Katowice

• Ewelina Sporysz; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Aleksandra Wal; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Joanna Trąbka; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Paulina Pruchnicka; University of Silesia in Katowice

• Aleksandra Kuzior, PhD, DSc Eng., Assoc. Prof.; Silesian University of Technology

• Iwona Flanczewska-Rogalska; Silesian University of Technology

• Anna Śmieszek-Szkutek; Katowice City Hall

• Kamila Rożnowska; Metropolis GZM

• Aleksandra Łyszczarz; Marshall Office of the Silesian Voivodeship

ORGANISATION COMMITTEE FOR THE INTERUNIVERSITY INAUGURATION OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2024/2025

• Agnieszka Smykla, PhD; Director of the Rector’s Office; Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education

• Agnieszka Karpa; Director of the Rector’s Office; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Klara Kucharczyk; Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Agnieszka Chabior; Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Izabela Musiał; Director of the Rector’s Office; University of Economics

• Dagmara Piskorz, PhD; Director of the Marketing Centre

• Aleksandra Śnieżek; Director of the Rector’s Office; Silesian University of Technology

• Ewelina Sporysz; Head of the University Events Office; University of Silesia

• Aleksandra Wal

• Paulina Pruchnicka

• Michał Hanke; Head of the Promotion Department; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Aleksandra Wilk; Medical University of Silesia in Katowice

• Anna Śmieszek-Szkutek; Katowice City Hall

ATTACHMENT No. 2

List of Events in Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024

* events that required registration, listed according to the schedule

• Faith, meeting, dialogue. Three religions in Silesia

• Outstanding Muslims

• Churches in Arab countries

• Cultural Heritage of Morocco

• Meeting with Arabic and Its Calligraphy and a Lecture about Brewing Arabic Coffee with Tasting

• Ceramics Workshop ‘Three cultures’

• At the Junction of Cultures, Religions and Views, or a Few Words about Mount Moriah

• Meeting with Hebrew

• Book Promotion: We Won’t Get Deported… The Jewish Resistance Fighters in Zagłębie Dąbrowskie

• Evangelical Choir Concert and Bandura Performance

• From Jerusalem to Paris. A Brief History of Notre-Dame

• Film Screening: Notre-Dame on Fire

• Intercultural Debate: Diversity of Thought –Thoughts about Diversity

• Science and faith in Islamic Perspective

• Science and Religion. Separately or Together? Where Did We Come From, Where Are We and Where Are We Going?

• Weekend Meeting with Islamic Culture. Moroccan Mint Tea Ceremony

• Workshop: Arabic Art of Body Decoration

• Etnos Ensemble: ‘Three Cultures. Three Religions’

• ‘Three Women. Three Religions. Three Points of View?’

• Lecture: Meeting with Morocco

• Motifs and Symbols of the Jewish Cemetery

• Lecture: In the Footsteps of Jews of Katowice

• Footsteps of Jews

• Solar Festiwal

• Frozen, or Taming the Freezing Cold

• Everyone Can Sing!

• From the Jerzy Kukuczka’s Archive

• Ice Show!

• Magic of Fire

• (Un)tamed Cold

• Does Cold Heal?

• Scientific Hot and Cold

• To Read Ice. Reading Laboratory

• ‘Low Temperatures’ – Lecture with Demonstrations of Physics Experiments

• Ice cream-Chilling Molecular Gastronomy

• Mission: Nunavut

• Are You Cold or Hot? Measure Your Temperature Based on the Attitude Thermometer and the Films Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings

• Are You Cold or Hot? Measure Your Temperature

• Time Together at ‘Żyleta’

• Winter Threats in the Mountains

• Arctic Cold and Glaciers

• Will Glaciers Cause a Flood?

• Low Temperatures

• How to Increase an Athlete’s Performance?

• Winter in Medicine, or Cold, Colder, Treatment

• Winter Fractals

• Life in Low Temperatures

• The Case of The Iceman, or How Cold Affects Forensic Evidence

• Warm, Warmer, or a Story About How Cold Allows Us to Solve Crime Puzzles

• ‘Cold in Cinematography’ – Film Screenings With Cold in the Background

• Is Everything Cold in the Winter Forest?

A Walk in the Murckowski Forest

• Valley of Three Ponds, Katowice

• Treasures of the Prehistoric World – Fossils

• Searching for Treasures Dating Back Hundreds of Millions of Years…

• Treasures of Knowledge – Training in Leadership Competences of the Future

• The Geodetic World of New Technologies

• Geocaching – Treasure Hunting Game…

• Life After Life of Underground Mines

• Treasures in Hand – Mineral Identification Workshop

• Treasures and Fakes – Gemology Workshop

• Alternative Investments: Case of the Metals Market

• How to Take Care for Your Health – Your Greatest Treasure

• Diamonds – Our Timeless Treasures?

• Machines and Robots Uncover Treasures… Demonstrations of Mining Machinery in Action

• Otherworldly Treasures

• How Much Gold is Hidden in Your Smartphone?

• Glowing Treasures – The Mysterious Nature of Minerals

• Earth’s Treasures Fair and More...

• Why Do Stars Shine?

• All the Stars of the Universe

• International Student Drawing Triennial

• MTRS Jury Exhibition

• Exhibition Opening: ‘Fluidity Underlying Certain Constructions’

• Light/sensitivity – Drawing Workshop for Children

• Corpus Circulare – Exhibition Opening

• Light Festival ‘Gratitude’

• When the Walls Have Ears

• Highlighting – Drawing in Feminist Strategies

• Go and Other Classic Games – Showcase and Game Sessions

• Historical-Themed Games – Showcase and Game Sessions

• Showcase and Game Sessions: ‘Bios: Genesis’

• Showcase and Game Sessions: ‘Bios: Megafauna’

• Showcase and Game Sessions: ‘Bios: Origins’

• Showcase and Game Sessions: ‘High Frontier’

• VOICES of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 –‘That’s the Sound of the City’

• FestSlow – A Local Recurring Festival – The City’s Garage Sale

• Green Gaming Seminar – Games for Climate

• ‘Behind the Scenes of Virtual Worlds’ –Meet-the-Author with Video Game Developers: Maciej Miga and Radosław Płachta

• ‘Games (Not Only) for the Blind’ – A Meeting-the-Author with Karolina Glanowska, Creator of Invisible Island the Game for Visually Impaired Players

• ‘History of Wargaming’ – Talk by Jarosław Krajniewski

• Crystal Bowls and Gongs at the Silesian Library

• Senses and Dialogue with Technology: Trends in Design

• Fire, Gas, Flight – Breath, Rubber, Body: 1783 Shades of Balloon Music

• Rising and Falling – A Concert by Izabela Smelczyńska

• Scents of the Katowice Spoil Tip: Smells of the Past and Present (Olfactory Walk)

• Evening Olfactories in Katowice

• Concerto for Saxophone, Flute, Synthesisers and Electronics

• Echolocation by Ear – Sound in Space, Space in Sound (Sound Walk)

• Joy of Playing Music Together – Museum Community Choir at Silesian Museum in Katowice | Open-Air Concert

• Microwalk Sightseeing Tour of Katowice

• Night Insect Observation by the Rawa River

• Happy Brain: EEG Wave Measurement Workshop at the Cognitive Research Laboratory of the University of Silesia

• Film Screening: C’mon, c’mon

• Film Screening: Babette's Feast

• Meeting with Marzena Figiel-Strzała

• InterNanoPoland 2024

• Tree of Happiness – Workshop for Children

• Concept of a Multifunctional Service and Communication Structure Based on the Former Steam Locomotive Depot Buildings in Katowice

• Open Form Guerrilla. Drawing in Artistic Practice

• Exhibition: Ideobranie. Ideas and Prototypes

• Detach Dislove Relieve. How the Fruit Comes Off the Tree

• What Does Water Taste Like? Lecture and Workshop

• Taxation of Gambling in Poland

• Walk Around the Załęże District

• Road Science – Traffic Safety. DB Cargo Locomotive Simulator

• Road Science – Traffic Safety. Technology Demonstrations by Road Transport Inspection, State Fire Service, and DB Cargo

• ‘Around Esports’ – Tournaments and Lectures

• Talk: Lots of Luck and Health... ‘Various States of Happiness’ of Concentration Camp Prisoners

• Disegno metaforico. An Alternative History of Drawing

• ‘Games in the Neighborhood’ Competition

• RPG Sessions in Gliwice (MROWISKO)

• Board Game Competitions and Tournament for Primary Schools at the Silesian Library

• Debate: Board Games in Education

• Board Game Competitions and Tournament for Secondary Schools at the Silesian Library

• ‘Board Games with the University of Technology’ in Rybnik

• ‘Hooked on Games’ in the City of Wodzisław Śląski

• GRYdułtowy – Board Games Day in the Town of Rydułtowy

• Qualifying Tournament of the National Board Game Championships ‘Mitrys’ and Bard Songs Concert

• Drawing with Sound Versus Playing Drawings

• One Hundred Years of the Game of Kings in Silesia

• Film Screening: Little Joe

• Nadumysł – Open RPG Session with University of Silesia Staff

• Strategy, Patience, Victory – The Game of Go

• Play History – Celebrate Independence Day

• Poland National Game Studies Congress

• Ballerina – Film Screening for Primary School Students

• Billy Eliot – Film Screening for Primary School Students

• Singin' in the Rain – Film Screening for Secondary School Students and Adults

• POROSTY Concert

• Dancing Pina – Film Screening for Adolescents and Adults

• Dance in Fintess – Workshop for PE Teachers of Primary and Secondary Schools

• Dance for Health? – Panel Discussion on Dance in Rehabilitation and Healthcare, and Professional Challenges of Dancers

• Dance Gala | Dance Shows by Artistic Groups

• Dance Isn’t Awkward – Practical Workshops on Polish National Dances

• AWF Katowice Dance Cup – Modern Dance

• Dance in Science and Practice – Online Scientific Session during the Scientific and Education Conference at Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice

• Connected by Creativity: Intergenerational Workshops

• Decorating Clothes with Paintings, Patches, and Other Things

• Wheel of Emotions – Great Fun for Parents and Children

• Workshops for Parents and Children at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Creative Day at the University of Economics – Open Day

• Making Greeting Cards with Scrapbooking and Quilling

• Making Bracelets from String and Beads Using Macramé

• Creative Photography Workshops

• Entrepreneurship 4.0. Trends, Challenges, Opportunities

• Decorating Objects Using Decoupage

• Ceremony of Mayor of Katowice Awards for Teachers

• Ceremony of Mayor of Katowice Awards and HM University of Silesia’s Rector for Outstanding Students ‘Katowice Educational Diamond’

• Launch of the City Climate Education Programme ‘Atmospheric Katowice’

• Assistance Dog in a European City. Continuation of Educational Workshops for Children, Youth, and Adults

• A Few Points about Lines – Performative Project

• Portable Literary Festival

• Aromas Twisted in a Bottle – Zero Waste Workshop

• Making Flower Brooches from Ribbons and Beads

• Build the City of Dreams – LEGO Katowice

• Conjure Yourself a 3D Gadget – Creative Workshops

• Creative Art Journaling Workshops

• VOICES of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 –‘My Voice’

• Garden of Creation. Sprouted Creativity / Meditation with a Plant of Power – Create Your Own Totem of Power

• Interdisciplinary Nutrition Conference: ‘Common Path to Children’s Health’

• Garden of Creation. Sprouted Creativity/Creating Decorations

• Garden of Creation. Sprouted Creativity/Open Gallery. Joint Exhibition Creation and Room Decoration

• FestSlow – A Local Recurring Festival

• Breakdancing Show

• Dance Therapy

• Information on the Market – How Meaningful are News for Financial Instrument Valuation?

• Exhibition of UE Katowice Students’ Work on Information Design

• The Art of Searching in the Information Maze

• Upper Silesia Medical and Pharmacy History Documentation Centre – A Unique Source for Healthcare Research in the Region

• RAD-on System as A Source of Data on Higher Education and Science in Poland

• A Piece of Culinary Wisdom: Zero Waste Workshop

• Reliability of Medical Information Found on the Internet

• Polish Medical Platform – Advanced Knowledge Portal on Polish Medicine

• Ways of Communicating in the Animal Kingdom

• On Familiar Terms with AI: Practical Applications of ChatGPT

• Not Just Google – Workshops on Researching Materials for Academic Writing Based on Polish Medical Platform, Bibliographic-Abstract Medical Databases, Electronic Sources

• Consultation Point: Cyber Safe Citizen –

• How to Protect Our Information?

• Information Resources of the SUM Library Website

• Unconventional Forms of Market Communication

• Healthy Years, Healthy Planet: Nutrition Workshop for Seniors

• Culinary Magic with A Touch of Experiment: Art

• Information Recorded in Wood – Workshop for Children

• Information Recorded in Wood – Workshop for Adolescent

• Between Truth and Fantasy: Hieronymus Bosch –Art History Lecture

• From Chaos to a Masterful Collection of PDFs –

• Do It with Mendeley: Organising Information with a Bibliography Manager

• How Not to Be Manipulated in a World of (Dis)information? Investigative Journalism and Fact-Checking Workshop

• Knights of King Arthur

• Public Food Procurement –Do We Know What We Are Ordering?

• Why Communication Is Not Just Words –On Nonverbal Communication

• The Information That Keeps Us Alive: What Modern Biology Says About the Transmission of Genetic Information

• The Power of Information on the Internet and the Job Market: Building Your Personal Brand in Social Media

• Podcast Launch: News or Fake News –How Much Information is in the Information?

• E-book Premiere: Cyber Safe. How to Take Care of Your Safety in the Digital World?

• Creative Workshop on Making Simple Art Forms and Having Fun

• Creative Workshop on Artistic Sewing –Young People Aged 14-17

• Discover Your Superpower – Creative Workshop to Learn Solution Thinking

• Garden of Creation. Sprouted Creativity

• Showcase and Game Sessions of Board Games (Stowarzyszenie Trzy Plansze)

• Public Food Procurement: Improving Skills for Intendants and Directors

• Artists on the Path on the Occasion of the 80th Anniversary of the Victorious Battle of Monte Cassino

• Family Field Game

• Grand Finale of Creativity Week – ‘LEGOvision of Katowice –The City of Dreams’ – Building a Dream City out of LEGO Bricks

• We Are All Creators - The ABC of Intellectual Property

• Lecture for Teachers: ‘Effective Communication in Practice vs. Teen Slang’

• About the Silesian Spirit of Entrepreneurship

• Stellar Movies by Alejandro Jodorowski in Kino Kosmos

• Does This Business Idea Stand a Chance of Success? Entrepreneurship and Finances in a Nutshell

• From Sports to Economics: The Many Faces of the Economy

• I'm Feeling Green! Home Gardens – Gardening Workshop

• Private Investors in the Alternative Asset Market

• A World That Doesn’t Exist – Why Games (Not Just Video Games) Are the Future of Education

• AI and the Brain – Can Machines Read Our Minds?

• A Hospital Without Patients, an Office Without Visitors, and a University Without Students? A Remarkably Serious Lecture!

• Demonstration of AI Robot Capabilities

• Career Paths for the Young Generation: Is There a Future for Economics and Finance Degrees

• Understanding the Consumer Digital Footprint

• Cultural Factors in International Transactions: How to Navigate in an International Environment

• How to Start Your Own Business?

• Financial Analyst = Programmer?

• Healthy and Fit: Personalised Dietary Consultations

• Why Good Public Management Is So Important

• ChatGPT and AI Models – A Practical Guide

• Don’t Waste the Next Few Years!

• Lecture: Artificial Intelligence in Practice

• Industry 4.0 for ROW 2.0

• ‘Modern Technologies Supporting Medicine’ –Lecture and Tour of EHTIC

• Little Hands, Big Technologies: An Adventure with Robots

• Film Screening: The Stolen Body

• Cosmic Discoveries: Missions, Technologies, and Flavours

• From Grandma’s Cookbook…

• Cosmic Innovations: Exploring the Moon and Mars

• 3D Printing Workshops

• Scope and Functionality of Statistical Databases

• Scope and Functionality of the STRATEG System and the National Reporting Platform – SDG

• Information Recorded in Wood. Wood as a Source of Knowledge about Civilization and the Environment

• In the Web of Misinformation –Fake and Predatory Journals – Presentation

• Open Day at the Laboratories of the Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology

• Mitochondria – The Cell’s Energy Factories

• Waste in the Context of the Circular Economy – Zero-Waste Energy Management in Practice

• Open Day at the Laboratories of the Department of Energy Machines and Devices, Silesian University of Technology

• Tasty Good Health: A Family Odyssey Towards Wellness

• PomuzykujMY – Let’s Make Music Together

• Industry 4.0 Conference: Meeting of Science and Industry

• Water in Energy Industry

• Potions Lesson at Hogwarts

• Witches’ Week with the SUM Library: From Alchemy to Pharmacy at the Museum of Medicine and Pharmacy in Sosnowiec

• From the Kerosene Lamp to Ultraviolet Light

• Conquering the Matura Exam in Chemistry – Workshop for Teachers and Exam Candidates

• Exhibition Opening: Maria Skłodowska-Curie –In Love with Science, with Meet-the-Author

• Maria Skłodowska-Curie – In Love with Science

• Transmutation Spells

• Opening of Artificial Intelligence Week

• In the World of Witches and Warlocks

• News from the Golden Age of Alchemy

• Sorceresses, Witches or Just Women? A Deep Dive into the History of Katarzyna Włodyczkowska from Czeladź

• EVOLUTIONARY ART

• Transmutation Spells for Advanced

• Creative Senior Halloween Edition

• Wizard Duels

• A Magical Journey Through the Elements with Materials Engineering: Enchanting Earth, Water, Fire, and Air

• Halloween Film Marathon

• Cat Classifier: How Artificial Intelligence Helps Solve Classification Problems

• In the World of Alchemy – Family Field Game

• Public Speaking Workshop

• Mobile Planetarium – Series of Film Screenings

• Bring Your Chemistry Question...

• Competition for Future Engineers

• How to Fight for Clean Air?

• ABC of Energy Clusters and Cooperatives

• Power in Stones: The Secrets of Energy Raw Materials from Coal to Uranium

• AI Knowledge Competition

• A Dance Party in the Spirit of Chicago Blues

• Blues Workshops and Jam Session at KATO BLUES FACES!

• A<FESTIVAL

• Silver Waterfall

• A Day of Computer Games: History and Culture at the Museum of Computer History and Informatics

• Symposium on Energy Transformation

• A<FESTIVAL – URBAN MOVIE 1 – ‘Copenhagen: The Happiest City in the World’

• A<FESTIVAL – Joy Block 1 – ‘Jump, Jump into the City Pool with a Cannonball’

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Showcase 1

• Machine Learning with Ensemble Methods

• A<FESTIVAL – A<24

• A<FESTIVAL – Agrocybernetics

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Exploration: Through the Fourth Nature in Ruda 1

• A<FESTIVAL – Road Race Meetup

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Exploration: Across Rooftops

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Exploration: Through Villas

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Exploration: Through Esoteric Threads

• A<FESTIVAL – Joy Block 2

• A<FESTIVAL – RPG Session

• A<FESTIVAL – Breakfast Block

• Discovering Knowledge from Large Data Sets

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Exploration: Through Silesian Park

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Exploring: Through the Nooks and Crannies

• A<FESTIVAL – Urban Movie 2

• March of the Silesian Nature

• Drones in National Defence and Security

• Demonstration of Digital Techniques in Practical Medical Rescue Training – First Aid Workshops Using VR and XR Technologies

• LEGO Robotics Workshops

• Practical Guide to ChatGPT

• Robotic Exploration of SPACE –Robotics Tournament for Primary Schools

• Robotic Exploration of SPACE –Robotics Tournament for Secondary Schools

• Drone Show – Display Using Educational Drones with Light Effects

• Theatre Performance for Primary School Students

• OpenLab – Open Laboratories at the Łukasiewicz Institute –EMAG

• VR Gallery – Showcase of Games Created by ASP Students

• International Conference ‘RoboServe – Robots in the Service of Humanity’ – Day 1

• LEGO Robotics Workshops – LEGO Robotic Hand

• Artificial Intelligence in Mobile Apps

• OpenLab – Open Laboratories at the Technical Schools Complex in Rybnik

• Robot Festival

• Family Workshops

• Debate – Robotics in Education: The Future of Learning or a Technological Revolution?

• Universality in Physical Processes: From Aurora to Corona, from Birth to Death of Stellar Systems

• Household Budget Management – VR Workshops in Cieszyn

• Play Numbers with PKO Bank Polski in Chorzów

• Play Numbers with PKO Bank Polski in the City of Mikołów

• Presentation: ‘Ars Ludi, Ars Populi –The Art in Computer Games’

• 360 Concert at LORI ASP

• Automation of Analytical Processes

• Is the Total Energy of the Universe Exactly Zero?

• Energy Efficiency in Robotics

• Shaping the Energy Mix on the Path to Climate Neutrality

• Modern Energy Solutions in Practice

• Climate Week Inauguration

• Lecture: ‘Facts and Myths about Climate’

• Youth and Scientists Debate: ‘Facts about Climate’

• Workshop: ‘Climate Change or Climate Changes – How to Talk about Climate?’

• Workshop: ‘Fashionable and Climate-Friendly – Consumer Choices and Climate’

• Haiku Workshop – Poetry for the Earth

• Robots and Rovers in Action: Adventures with Technology

• Time Machine on the Board: Queue Up and Shop in the Polish People’s Republic

• Meeting: ‘Identifying the Consequences of Climate Change on Aquatic Environments’

• International Conference RoboServe –Robots in the Service of Humanity – Day 2

• AI for Multimedia and XR

• Medical Rescue Classes Using the VR Simulator ‘Triage’

• VR Tools Presentation: ‘Triage’, ‘Dental Clinic’, ‘Patient Monitoring Room’, ‘Anatomy’

• Surgical Classes Using the VR Simulator ‘Surgical Instruments’

• Katowice Secondary Schools Chess Championships

• Fitographies: Anthropogenic Life Stories of Plants

• Justice-Centred Climate Adaptation for Resilient Cities

• Seminar: Nature-Based Solutions and Their Role in Urban Climate Adaptation

• Seminar: Good Energy for the Climate

• The Impact of AI on the Economy and the Study of Economics

• Scientific Meeting: The Climate Face of Health

• Curling Workshop: From Tap Water to Olympic Rings

• Life Cycle Thinking in Higher Education

• Is Small the New Big? – On Current Nuclear Reactor Developments

• Online Lecture: The Paradoxes and Challenges of the Anthropocene

• Workshop: Climate Change Adaptation as a Public Task

• Lecture and Workshop: Not All Calories Are Equal

• Meeting with a Psychologist

• Piano Concert by Mateusz Dubiel

• Meeting: Climate in Numbers

• Autonomous Mobile Systems

• Green Level for the Future! Planting a ‘Climate Forest’

• Coffee Meeting: ‘More Environmentally Friendly for the Environment and Residents in the Face of Climate Change’

• Green Level for the Future! Climate Week for Children

• In a Dark Climate: Reality Sinks into Reality

• ‘Let’s Go with Climate Protection!’ – A Webinar on Creative Eco-Education

• Exhibition: What Comes After COP? The Climate Path of the Conferences

• of the Parties

• Workshop: Carbon Footprint – Your Contribution to a Sustainable Future

• Tree-Planting Action for the Climate

• Climate Knowledge Quiz: A Moment for the Climate! Time to Reflect!

• Breakthrough or Threat? The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Future of Society

• Workshops for High School and University Students –Rethinking the Future: A Futurology Workshop

• Lego Improvisation

• ‘Man, Get Yourself Checked Before Christmas’

• ‘Healthy Mind’

• Once Upon a Time… Life – Episode Screening, Educational Game, and Vitamin-Filled Workshops – From Head to Toe

• Release the Tension, Grow Your Roots

• Does a Deaf Person Speak? – Facts and Myths About the Deaf Community

• Burnt Out – A Workshop Meeting

• Dialogue with the Future: Humans and Artificial Intelligence

• Connecting Worlds: Artificial Intelligence in the Service of Communication for the Deaf

• Winter Tea Room – A Feast for the Senses

• Christmas Chain of Kindness

• What a Gingerbread from That Christmas Tree!

• Theatre Performance: Niko the Reindeer Saves Christmas

• VOICES of the European City of Science Katowice 2024 –‘Community Stories’

• Garden of Creation. Sprouted Creativity – The Human as a Guardian of Life

• What’s in Our Souls?

• Climate Mindfullness. Closing of Climate Week

• Programming the Future:

• Artificial Intelligence in a World of New Technologies

• Music as Experience – A Discussion Inspired by Marcin Trzęsiok’s Book

• Children’s Workshop: The Art of Improvisation –Unscripted Creativity

• Workshop: Dry Snowballs

• Villanelle. From Musical to Poetic Form

• Improvisation in Documentary Film – Masterclass by Marcin Koszałka, PhD

• Workshop: Holiday Pop-Up Twist Cards

• The Impact of the Tuberculosis Pandemic on Painting, Literature and Music

• Urban Cultural Policy: Between Improvisation and Planning

• Dancing Zorba – Improvised Music and Medicine

• Will AI Replace Humans?

• Meet-the-Author with Marta Obuch

• Workshop: Holiday Pop-Up Gift Cards

• Concert: 15th Anniversary of the Band Ariana Savall & Hirundo Maris

• A Non-Improvised Book Project – InDesign Workshop

• Workshop: Penguin Diorama and Toy Creations from Egg Cartons for Children and Parents

• Workshop: Christmas Plate Diorama

• Uncharted Paths: Novel Approaches to Decarbonization

• Exhibition: Between Worlds

• Rock, Paper, Scissors Game

• Hearing Screening Using an Audiometer

• Cancer Prevention – Hands-On Workshop Using Diagnostic Mannequins

• Game Session: ‘Bios: Origins’

• Workshop: Scientific Fun for Kids – Cosmetics and Soap Lab

• Exhibition of Anatomical Models, 3D Human Anatomy Atlas, and the Magical Sensory Wall for Children

• Botanical Pattern Tote Bag Painting Workshop

• Exhibition Opening: Between Worlds

• Family Game: ‘The Mystery of Man –The Riddle of Leonardo Da Vinci’

• Open Laboratories of the Silesian University of Technology

• ‘Where Do Babies Come From – Advanced Edition’

• ‘Light, Camera, Humanity’ – Screening & Discussion: Man of Iron (1981)

• Workshop: ‘Assistance Dogs in the European City’ –Continuation of Educational Workshops for Children, Youth, and Adults

• Employer Day in the World of Materials

• Material LAB

• Materials for the City of the Future

• Exploring Potentials of Modern Materials in Realizing Sustainable Additive Manufacturing

• Neat to the Last Paperclip – CV Writing Consultations

• How to Implement AI in Primary and Secondary Schools

• Career Passport – Job Interview Training

• Power – Speed – The Art of Braking

• WOOD – Material of the Past, Present, and Future

• In Pursuit of Adrenaline

• Nothing About Us Without Us – Women in Science: Research, Industry, Life

• The Secrets of Materials

• Materials for Sustainable Textiles and Clothing

• Image Recognition Using Open Databases

• Extreme Protection – DELTA, #EnjoySafety

• Materials Drive the World

• Wicker – A Material with Soul

• Endurance League

• The Age of Materials

• Material for Strength – Training with Aesthetics of the Body

• Material Escape Room – The Lab Escape Experience

• Recommendation Systems – Movie Recommendations

• What’s Squeaking Inside the Material?

• Exhibition of Anatomical Models, 3D Human Anatomy Atlas, and the Magical Sensory Wall

• Human Anatomy – Exhibition of Anatomical Models, 3D Human Anatomy Atlas, and the Magical Sensory Wall (Library of the Medical University of Silesia)

• The Human Body – Exhibition of Anatomical Models, 3D Human Anatomy Atlas, and the Magical Sensory Wall (Library of the Medical University of Silesia)

• The Structure of the Human Body – Exhibition of Anatomical Models, 3D Human Anatomy Atlas, and the Magical Sensory Wall (Library of the Medical University of Silesia)

• Discover Your Body – Exhibition of Anatomical Models, 3D Human Anatomy Atlas, and the Magical Sensory Wall for Children

• On Being Alienated – ‘Between Worlds’ Exhibition by Klaudia Wysiadecka

• Between Sound and Silence – ‘Between Worlds’ Exhibition by Klaudia Wysiadecka

• Creative Madness – Create with Passion

• VinyLOVE – See the Sound

• Biomedical Materials | Lectures and Panel Discussion

• Electrifying Materials

• Strategic Worlds – Relaxation Zone

• Warrior of Steel

• WOOD – Material of the Past, Present, and Future

• With Fire and Hammer

• Protect Yourself Like Metal from Corrosion

• Potters Weren’t Born Masters

• Ceramics

• Metallurgy – From Tradition to Innovation

• The Vibrant World of Stained Glass

• Puppy Poses – Yoga with Dogs

• Flavors of Materials

• AI Escape Room

• Meet-the-Author with Anne Applebaum, Author of Autocracy Inc.

• Premiere of the Play OUR CorpoRATION Based on TOP DOGS

• Theatre Performance: Solaris, Directed by Waldemar Raźniak

• LegoVision – Lego Anatomy Creative Interior –The Human Body as Inspiration for Artistic Creation

• Creative Interior – Clay Workshop Inspired by Human Anatomy

• Multimedia Exhibition Opening: ‘People of the City of Science’

• Christmas Wreath & Centrepiece Workshop

• Conference: The Human in the Digital World

• Lecture: The Consumer – A Rational Being?

• Concert by Prof. Tadeusz Trzaskalik – The One-Man Orchestra

• AI in Robotics

• AI with the Photon Robot

• AI: How Artificial Intelligence Helps Us All

• Panel Discussion: Women in the Development of AI

• From the Archive of Jerzy Kukuczka

• Film Screening: Z hałdy w Himalaje [From the Heap to the Himalayas]

• Safety in the Mountains

• How to Prepare for Mountain Expedition

• From the Jerzy Kukuczka’s Archive

• Health in the Mountains

• ‘Limbo’ Climbing Workshops

• Long-distance Mountain Trails

• Post-hike Recovery, Preparation and Injuries’

• Mountains Give, Mountains Take Away

• Mountain Hike

• Climbing Workshops for Children

• BaseCamp in the Valley

• Let’s Talk about the Mountains

• Emotion Control Unit

• Love Testers: Technological Prototypes for Relationship Profiling

• Meeting with Przemysław Jasielski, creator of the Emotion Control Unit

• Love in Music Videos

• Meeting with Przemysław Jasielski, creator of the Emotion Control Unit

• Quantum Entanglement: When We Don’t Know Where One Body Ends and the Other Begins

• Off Love

• Loving Three Beings – a Human, an Animal, and a Robot

• Love in Crisis – Has the Ideal Fallen from Grace?

• Philosophical Eroticism – From Abstraction to Relationship

• Unhappy Endings. Poems for the Broken Hearted

• Human Perception of Divine Love. A Brief History of Painful Mistakes

• Love Testers: Technological Prototypes for Relationship Profiling

• Married and Unmarried Life from a Tax and Financial Perspective – Before, During, and After Divorce: What Changes?

• Can Mindfulness Improve the Quality of a Romantic Relationship? On the Importance of Mindfulness for Functioning in a Relationship and Experiencing Love

• Takotsubo. Broken Heart Syndrome and the Power of a Troubled Mind

• Love Through the Eyes of a Philosopher –A Personal Development Workshop

• Extended-Self Love: Material imagination and Healing from Eating Disorders

• Eksperyment naukowo-artystyczny EEG Kiss, Lance&Matt

• ‘…And They Lived Happily Ever After’ –A Psychological Take on the Changes in Relationship Satisfaction Fairy Tales Don’t Mention

• Exhibition Opening: Anthropocene. The City’s Destructive Love

• Anthropocene. The City’s Destructive Love

• Stars, Love Maps, and Apps – Mapping the Route to Love

• Meeting with the Living Books – The Living Library

• Love in the Time of Netflix

• Academic Session: On Humour and Moods

• Science with a Smile – A Meeting with Crazy Nauka and the IG Nobel Prize

• Self-Reflection with Humour. Data Visualization in Everyday Life

• Classics of Polish Comedy at Kino Światowid: Teddy Bear by Stanisław Bareja

• Classics of Polish Comedy at Kino Światowid: Some Like It Hot

• Laughter Yoga Workshops at the City of Science

• Draw with Humour: Cartooning Workshop

• Improvised Theatre by Impro Silesia at the City of Science

• Let’s Protect the Dark Sky!

• Telescope-Based Observation of the Sun Among the Planets

• My First Telescope and the Dark Sky

• Fermi Paradox – Where Are the Aliens? Meeting with Science Fiction Creators

• Astronauts Wanted! Psychological Screening for Space Missions

• Astronomical Observations

• Building an SSTV Transmitter – Sending Images from the Stratosphere and Space

• Mini Stratospheric Missions

• Stratospheric Mission Launch

• Through the Atmosphere by a Balloon

• Astronomy on Tap

• Build a Rocket!

• Discover Space with Paxi

• A Career in the Space Sector

• Meteorites: Visitors from Space

• Designing Lunar Bases in Tinkercad

• Silesia from Orbit: Using Satellite Imagery in Education

• Kepler’s Laws in Action

• Film Screening: Proxima, Followed by a Discussion on Women in Space

• Mars Rover from the Silesian University of Technology

• Lecture Series: Science is a Woman

• Final Gala of the 67th Astronomy Olympiad and the Finale of the Direction: Space Competition

• Exhibition of AI-Generated Artwork

• We Count on Math – How to Become an Active and Creative Teacher

• From Zero to a Million – Why ‘Nothing’ Has Value

• Creating Images Using AI Tools – Evolutionary Art

• Online Seminar for PhD Students and Researchers: The Coq Proof Assistant in Research and in Teaching: A Personal Perspective

• Online Investment Workshop – From Cryptography to Cryptocurrency: How Digital Records Acquire Value

• Concert of Karol Szymanowski Academic Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Mikhail Mering

• By the Numbers Through the World of Business: Introduction to Accounting

• National Workshops ‘Oscillations 2.0’

• The Human Body in Numbers

• Infinity and Multidimensional Modeling in Sports

• Math Match

• Workshops in the History of Mathematics – The Scottish Café

• Workshops for Children and Youth – Logic Puzzles

• Chess Tournament: πonek

• Chemical Demonstrations: Chemistry 2+2

• Workshops on Building and Programming Lego Robots: 3-2-1 Shake-It Micro:bit

• Finance? Where Does It Come From?

• Reach Beyond What the Eye Can See with an X-Ray Scanner

• Chemical Workshops: Magic Chemistry

• How Much Is a Lot? Old Polish Units of Measurement

• What Can Light Tell Us About Medicine?

• Pi Day

• Geometry Workshops for Students: Mathematical Magic

• 3D Printing Technologies in Aviation

• Run Over a Distance of 1000*π

• Debate and Film Screening: Proof – The Image of a Female Mathematician

• Mini Lecture with a Performance by the Student Song and Dance Ensemble ‘Katowice’ – On Numbers in Music

• Debate ‘Quo Vadis Katowice?’ and Open Meeting of Member Companies of the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Katowice

• WUD Silesia 2024 Festival – City of Knowledge

• High School Youth Meeting: ‘How Does a City Work?’

• Workshop for USil Faculty of Law and Administration Students: ‘Scope and Functionality of Statistical Databases’

• Exhibition: ‘Anthropocene’

• Sponge Cities – Rivers

• Sponge Cities – Trees

• Urban Walk – Modernism

• Urban Walk – Visiting Spodek Arena

• Urban Walk – Murals

• Night Tour of Spodek

• Climate Katowice – Energy Transition

• First Demonstration Lesson as Part of ‘EuroBasket 2025’

• ‘Kłodnica Ramble’ – Exploring the Northern Part of the Upper Pszczyna Forests from Kokociniec to Radoszowy

• Meet-the-Author with Leszek Jodliński, Author of Bachelor’s Apartment

• Exhibition Opening: ‘RECOMMENDATION ART for the Times of Overdriven Culture’

• Urban Walk – New Katowice

• Film Screening The Importance of Being an Architect, Followed by a Debate

• Ars Electronica Animation Festival on Tour – Electronic Theatre

• ‘Educational Leader in Local Government’ Certificate Ceremony

• Seminar: ‘How Do Metropolises and Metropolitan Areas Work in Central Europe?’

• The City as an Ecosystem

• Getting to Know Yourself – Ego Fixation or Self-Development?

• How to Fix a City from the Ground Up?

• Community. Residents. Metropolis.

• Outsourcing Self-Control? How the Digital World Affects Our Self-Regulation

• 8th Spring Forum of Student Governments

• Exhibition Opening: Views Up Close

• The Profession of Infobroker – Theory and Practice of Information Services

• Workshop and Debate on Green Roofs

• Green Roofs – Presentation for Residents

• 2 Million Seeds

• Children’s Play: Puss in Boots by the Blaszany Bębenek Theatre

• Science Tram

• Children’s Film Screening and Workshop: Jacob, Mimmi and the Talking Dogs

• Stimulate Dialogue – Deeply Social Gardens

• Sound Walks

• The Travel of Sound

• In Search of Harmony: Cultivating Kindness and Mindful Awareness on Stage

• Parents as Nurturing Resources: A Family Integrated Approach to Music Therapy for Neonatal Procedural Support

• Study Visit to the Municipal Hospital in Ruda Śląska

• Sound is Among Us – Exploring Community Sounds

• MAY YOU BE LUCKY

• OH BEAUTIFUL SPRING!

• Acoustic Self-Care

• Sound-Based Self-Care

• Interferences

• Weekend with Acoustics – Learning and Fun

• Expressive Practices for Preventing Professional Burnout

• Art for Human Wellbeing

• My Sonic City

• Virtual Run within the European City of Science Katowice 2024 ‘Running for Health’

• Scientific Conference: Viruses in Our Lives

• Official Opening of the Accelerating Science Exhibition –Lecture for Youth and Exhibition Tour (P/0/01)

• Educational Game on Health and Viruses –High School Students Only

• Open Day at the Department of Microbiology and Immunology

• Interuniversity Forum of Young Scientists: Viruses in Our Lives

• Smart Materials – Lecture for Students

• Official Screening of the STOP HPV Campaign Film

• Can a Polygraph Really Detect Lies? – Workshop for Youth

• Business Process Modelling in BPMN Notation

• ‘Running for Health’ Run – In the Spirit of 7 Rules for Preventing Viruses!

• Enterprise Management in the Cloud – SAP Cloud Solution Workshop (4/17)

• Young Explorers’ Club Conference – Youth Science Conference (KatoScience Corner)

• Nanotechnology – Opportunity or Threat?

• 3D Printing in the Fight Against COVID-19 and in Healthcare

– Workshop for Youth

• 4th BPM 2024 Symposium

• Sunday Health Clinic

• Modern Methods of Teaching (in STEM): Case Studies from Selected Projects

• New Technologies in the Work of Young Scientists

• ACCELERATING SCIENCE – Exhibition (Chorzów Campus Library)

• Energy Transition – A Challenge for the Economy

• Smart Solutions for Health and Comfort

• Luminescent Materials – How to Make Glass That Glows Without Electricity

• The Importance of Data in BPMN Process Modeling

• Offline Minds – Brain vs. Technology Workshops

• Food Chain – Symposium (spinPLACE)

• Looking Inside the Human Body

• New Technologies Picnic – Family Event (Chorzów Campus)

• Materials of the Future in Silesia – Business Conference (CINiBA)

• Household Budget – Why Parents Say: ‘You’ll Understand When You Grow Up’

• International Art Exhibition for World Art Day

• Furniture Inspired by Architecture

• TOP 12 – My First Design Project

• Ceramics and Glass Workshops

• Architectural Walk: ‘Architecture of Science’ – Youth Palace

• Meeting: Architectural Motifs in Contemporary Books

• Multidisciplinary Open Scientific Seminar

• Robots – Should We Be Afraid?

• Office Ergonomics – Adjusting Desk Height to Your Body

• Photos of New Benches No. 1 and 2 – BenchMan Kato Science

• Photos of New Benches No. 3 and 4 – BenchMan Kato Science

• Photos of New Benches No. 5 – BenchMan Kato Science

• Artistic-Photographic Performance – Poses and Photos with ‘KATOWICE CITY OF SCIENCE’ Shirts

• Ceramics and Glass Workshops

• Cognitive Posturology and Everyday Human Activities –Lecture and Workshop with Rafał Wysocki & Marek Podkowa

• Organ Festival – Inauguration of the New Pipe Organ at Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Educational Music Encounter: ‘Images Trapped in Pipes’ –Roman Hyla & Kazimierz Salik

• Heart and Mind. A Conversation About Love and Joint Writing between Jacek Dehnel and Piotr Tarczyński

• Organ Festival – Inauguration of the New Pipe Organ at Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music in Katowice

• Hear Your Organs – A Talk on Internal Organs, Prevention, and Screening

• Organ Festival – Masterclasses for Organists with Olivier Latry

• Positive Organ Concert with Lecture: Stanisław Pielczyk (organ), Tadeusz Trzaskalik (introduction)

• Workshop Meeting: Competences of Government and Local Government Authorities in Financing Cultural Institutions in Poland – Małgorzata Grząba-Włoszek

• Organ Recital – Olivier Latry

• Mini-Conference of the Organists' Scientific Club: Organs as a Single ORGANism

• Tour of the Organ Museum with Prof. Julian Gembalski

• Lecture: Consumer Protection Authorities – What Are They and How Can They Help Us in Daily Life?

• Organ Improvisation Concert: ImproVisions

• Super Materials: Discover the Potential for New Technologies!

• New Technologies in Nuclear Matter Research

• Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Technology

• Open Rehearsal at the Silesian Opera

• Concert of Polish Music on the 100th Anniversary of Mieczysław Surzyński’s Death – Jan Bokszczanin (organ)

• What’s Playing in Your Tummy? Workshop for Kids. Szymon Franczyk, Grażyna Leja-Franczyk

• Hear Your Organs – A Talk on Internal Organs, Prevention, and Screening

• Organ Concert – The Faces of Variation

• ‘They Never Taught Us That’ – Discussion and Q&A on the Skills Employers Expect Today and Will Expect in the Future

• Meeting with Professor Andrzej Bochenek

• Official Opening of Money Week: The History of the Polish Zloty

• Banknote Security Features

• Facts vs. Myths: The True Role of a Financial Advisor

• The Art of Saving for Your Dream Goal

• 100th Anniversary of Bank Polski S.A. – Outdoor Exhibition

• Urban Game in Ruda Śląska

• The Faces of Modern Money – From Cash to Digital Currency and Payments

• Capgemini Poland – Information Stand for Participants

• The Time Value of Money

• Taxes, Fees and Duties – Public Money Explained

• The Circular Flow of Money in the Economy

• Urban Game in Rybnik

• Get to Know the National Bank of Poland –Educational Activities

• Authenticating Money – Methods of Securing Banknotes

• Paying with Your Eyes – Fiction or Reality? Innovations in Payment Services

• Seminar: Financial Support Tools for Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises

• Money in the Virtual World – The Financial Side of Gaming and eSports

• Aviation Industry Day (Katowice)

• Air Transport Day (Katowice International Airport –Pyrzowice)

• Unmanned Aerial Systems Day

• 100th Anniversary of Bank Polski S.A. – Indoor Exhibition

• Urban Game in Sosnowiec

• Aviation Education and Training Day

• Financial Education – Promoting Healthy Financial Habits

• The History of Money and the Art of Investing

• Drone and Flying Model Day – Air Show Day One

• Scorehunter – How to Assess Creditworthiness

• General Aviation and Jet Aircraft – Air Show Day Two

• Financial Security for Seniors

• Savings vs. Investment – A Practical Approach

• Safe Money

• Get to Know the National Bank of Poland – Workshops for Children and Youth

• The Past, Present and Future of Finance

• The Best Capital – Investing in Yourself

• Gold as Global Currency and Benchmark for Exchange Rates

• Money in Art

• Cybersecurity in the World of Money – Official Summary and Closing of Money Week

• A Word on Money and Finance

• Imaginary Unit

• Michał Chojecki / Circulation

• The Idea and Practice of Zines – Self-Publishing for Artists: Meeting with Michał Chojecki of Oficyna Peryferie

• CINiBA Behind the Scenes –Tour of the University Library Building

• Make a Katowice-Themed Zine with Us

• Open Artistic Studios: Contemporary Ex Libris Research Studio

• Workshop on Crafting Book Covers with Marbled Paper

• Wordless Books – A Meeting on Photographic Books

• Inclusion as an Opportunity – with Accessibility and Design for All towards the Library of the Future. Workshops with Gregor Strutz

• Everyone Can Save the Sea

• From Binding to Cover – Lecture

• A Visit to the Library – A Student in an Academic Library

• Our Beginnings – Technical Literature in the Library of the Silesian University of Technology

• Hidden Pleasure of Reading Crime Fiction

• Open Artistic Studios: Graphic Design Studio

• One Picture Is Worth More Than a Thousand Words –A History of Medical Illustration. Exhibition Tour

• Artistic Picture Books for Children

• Meeting: How to Design a Book: Curious Book Designs at the Library of ASP in Katowice

• Film Screening: Umberto Eco: A Library of the World

• Meeting with Mathematical Stories

• Open Artistic Studios: Illustration and Poster Studio

• Knowledge in a Beautiful Garment. From Popular Science to Information Books – A Century of Poland

• Edward Feitzinger's Publishing Business. Magic in 19th-Century Literature for the People

• Small is Beautiful – Meeting with the Exhibition Author and a Talk on the Passion for Collecting Miniature Books

• International Review of Student Design AGRAFA 2024 Exhibition Tour

• Tour around CINiBA Building in the Silesian Language

• Therapeutic Function of Book –Meeting with Magdalena Wala

• Read the City. Identity in the City. Meeting with Anna Cieplak (The Body of the Steelworks) and Anouk Herman (You Will Never Walk Alone)

• Before an Ethnologist Writes a Book... A Few Words About the Unique Herbariums, Notebooks and Photographs of the Cieszyn Archives of the Polish Ethnographic Atlas

• Old Scientific Book – Curator's Tour of the Exhibition

• Meet-the-Author with Klaudia Wysiadecka, Author of Between Worlds

• Open Artistic Studios: Comics and Narrative Art Studio

• Themersons – The People of the Book

• The Origins of Printing – a Meeting Featuring the Board Game ‘Gutenberg’ and Bookbinding Workshops at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Katowice

• Workshop: Online Anatomical Atlases

• Meet-the-Author with Magdalena Majcher, Author of Doktórka od Familoków

• Workshop: Collective Atlas of the District – Cont.

• Gala of Fictional Characters

• International Review of Student Design AGRAFA 2024 Exhibition Tour

• Integrative Meeting of Academic Library Employees

• One Picture Is Worth More Than a Thousand Words –A History of Medical Illustration. Exhibition Tour

• ‘ONO MA TO’ – literary and sound workshops with Asi Mina.

• City of Books. Exploring the Legacy of the Former Těšín Printing and Book Trade

• Meet-the-Author with Rafał Julian Kordeusz

• A Book from Cover to Cover – Tour Around the Museum of Printing Combined With a Bookbinding Workshop

• MULTIMEDIAL ORGAN MUSIC EVENING

• Gaberbocchus Press. Rejection of Conformism. The Many Faces of Franciszka Themerson

• A Well-Designed Book – Let’s Start with Children Winners of the 8th Edition of the Competition

• Treasures of the Theological Library Online Exhibition Marking the Library’s Centenary

• Behind the Scenes at the Library

• Physical Culture and Sports in the Collection of the Library of AWF in Katowice

• Time Machine – Anatomical Atlases Then and Now

• Anatomical Models

• Exhibition of Miniature Books

• Aviation Industry Careers Fair

• Secondary School Competition

• Technical Equipment Showcase – Airport Edition

• Secondary School Competition

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Showcase

• Secondary and Primary School Competition

• Junior Droniada

• Presentation of Student Scientific Associations from Aviation Universities

• Meeting of Aviation Generations

• Aerial Shows – Drones and Flying Models

• Night Drone Show

• Dance Performance in Katowice City Centre – Surprise

• Exhibition of Student Works from the Faculty of Architecture at Silesian University of Technology

• ‘Opening Up to One Another’: Social, Family, and Therapeutic Board Game

• Financial Support Tools for Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises

• International Masterclasses: Breath – Music. Music Education Code: Kodály-Orff-Dalcroze – Day 1

• Breathing in Mindfulness Meditation On the Importance of Breath Awareness for Physical and Mental Health Awareness – Breath.

• Breath – Rhythm and Movement

• International Masterclasses: Breath – Music. Music Education Code: Kodály-Orff-Dalcroze – Day 2

• Nursing Practice in Breathing Therapy

• Concert by the Academic Wind Orchestra conducted by Jarosław Ignaszak

• International Academic Conference: Breath, Music and Music Therapy’ – Day 1

• Accordion – An Instrument with a Single Lung

• Concert by the Academic Wind Orchestra conducted by Jarosław Ignaszak

• International Academic Conference: Breath, Music and Music Therapy’ – Day 2

• Accordion – An Instrument with a Single Lung

• Narrative Art as Relief – From Escapism and Sublimation to Musical Compensation

• For Little Ears

• A Sound That Awakens Life

• Generations

• Family Forest Game: The Four Kingdoms

• Breath as Inspiration and Essence in Musical Performance

• Breathe! It’s Only Stage Fright – Or Is It?

• The Breath That Moves – Working with Breath and Energy Flow

• OTC Limerick Therapy. Every Disease Has Its Own Remedy

• Exhibition Opening: Between Worlds

• International Review of Student Design

• AGRAFA 2024

• Museum of Technology: Guided tour.

• Cognitive Function Training

• Presentation of Health-Themed Guidebooks

• BeMW – Move, Stay Balanced, and Do More

• The Restorative Power of Juggling

• Mindfulness – Attention Training

• Exercises to Strengthen Muscles and Bones

• Aqua Senior

• Metaverse Workshops

• Nordic Walking – The Path to Health

• I Only Remember When I Want To, But Then I Forget: How to Reduce Age-related Memory Loss

• Life Expectancy of a Resident of the Silesian Voivodeship in the Light of Statistical Data

• Age Has Many Names – a Multidimensional Conceptualisation of the Aging Process

• Workshop for Seniors with Elements of Music Therapy

• Pharmacological Methods of Life Extension

• The Caregiver’s Corner

• Bath Bomb Making Workshops

• Marching with Vigour

• Criticism of the Concept of Intergenerational Diversity

• Musical Breathing with Mindfulness Practice

• The Human at the Centre of Cybercriminals’ Attention

• How to Age Healthily?

• Exploring in VR (Virtual Reality)

• Workshops for Year 1 Pupils

• Exhibition of Artworks by Artists with Cognitive Disabilities + Commentary on the Role of Art Therapy

• Effective Intergenerational Cooperation

• Senior Health Prevention

• Workshops and Exercises for the Pelvic Floor Muscles

• Sexuality in Old Age

• The World of Technology within Reach

• Together We Can Change the World for the Better

• Secrets of Aunt Zefa and the Silesian Borderlands with Anna Dziewit-Meller

• Wait, How Would That Be in Silesian? It's on the Tip of My Tongue! Seminar Lecture Devoted to the Silesian Literary Language

• The Heart of Silesia – A Trip to Ustroń

• ‘Me and My Books Are One. Reflections on the Writing of Zofia Kossak’ – Promotion of the Publication and Meet-the-Author with the Authors of the Book | Literary Meeting and Book Promotion

• The Rawa River – From the Sources to Its Mouth, From the Past to the Present | Field Trip

• From Jan Czochralski’s Monocrystal to Graphene | Exhibition Opening

• The Heart of Silesia – A Trip to Ustroń

• ‘Me and My Books Are One. Reflections on the Writing of Zofia Kossak’ – Promotion of the Publication and Meet-the-Author with the Authors of the Book | Literary Meeting and Book Promotion

• The Rawa River – From the Sources to Its Mouth, From the Past to the Present | Field Trip

• From Jan Czochralski’s Monocrystal to Graphene | Exhibition Opening

• Exhibition Opening: Crystal Landscapes

• Crystal Landscape – Exhibition of Multimedia Works by Maria Constanza Ferreira and Students of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design

• Crystals Are Everywhere

• Crystals made of Paper

• GRAFFITI

• Recipe for a Comet – Talk with a Show

• Documentary Film Screening: The Mystery of the Giant Crystals + Film Screening: Inside Out 2

• Crystals around Us – Exhibition Tour, Lecture, and Workshops

• We Are Children of the Universe

• Creative Workshops: Eco Workshops with Aspen Wood –ECSK 2024

• Workshop: Structure Architect

• Lecture: Secrets of Ice Crystals

• Lecture: How Do We Grow Crystals of Materials Other Than Cooking Salt and Sugar?

• Workshop: The Crystalline Nature of Crystals

• Interactive Workshop: Crystal Clarity

• Scientific Conference: ‘Crystals – Order, Beauty and Usefulness’ with the Award Gala for the Winners of the National Crystal Growth Competition for School Youth

• Interactive Exhibition: Carboneum

• Sightseeing and relaxation in ‘Park 12C’

• Crystal Sound Walk

• Glass Harp

• Black Gold – About Coal Mining Traditions

• What Do Crystals Have in Common with the Origin of Living Matter, the Concept of Mass, and the Passage of Time?

• Monocrystalline Blades of Aircraft Engines – Small Elements of Great Importance

• Nano-Image of the Macro World

• Materials in Electron Microscopy

• How to Evoke the Spirit of a Crystal?

• See Up Close

• Crystals Big and Small

• In the World of Atoms

• The Influence of Crystal Structure on Its Properties Using the Example of Diamond, Graphite, and Proteins –How to Obtain New Drugs?

• Field Workshop for Youth with QR Codes –‘Together We Build the Future’

• Open Lecture: From Chaos to Order and Back Again

• Science Station: Surprising Crystal

• Family Field Game with the University of Silesia: ‘In Search of Crystals’ and Picnic at the Valley of Three Ponds, Harpagan z Tres Amigos

• Literary Evening: Silesian Landscapes in Fables

• Theater in Kattowitz/Katowice 1907–1945; Theatermachen in Kattowitz/Katowice 1907–1945 – Curator-Led Exhibition Tour

• Literary-Historical Walk Through Katowice

• Looking for Traces. Walk around the City of Bytom

• With Respect for Old Age – The Georgian Case

• Student Space Programme of the Student Research Circle ‘Silesian Aerospace Technologies’

• What’s Up in Space? Meeting with Sławosz Uznański, PhD –Project Astronaut of the European Space Agency

• Automotive Transport Day – Simulator Classes and Laboratory Demonstrations, Including Chassis and Engine Test Benches

• Stellar Training with Astronaut Sławosz Uznański

• Employer Day in Road Transport

• Finals of the Quiz: Road Transport

• Virtual Workshop on Automotive Industry

• Katowice, the City of Science and Education for Modern Road Transport – Goals, Challenges, Current Research, and New Technologies

• Rail Transport Day – Train Simulator Classes, Model Railway Demonstration, and Lab Presentations on Rail Transport

• Per Saecula. Vagabonding around Murcki District

• Open innovation artistique comme moyen de promotion touristique de la culture des minorités du Maroc et de la Silésie / Open Innovation Artistique as a Tool for Promoting the Culture of Minorities in Morocco and Silesia

• Lecture: Hidden Side of the Underground City

• Talk: The Role of Museums in Preserving Mining Heritage

• Pubic Lecture: Silesian Lords – Silesian Millionaires

• Employer Day in Rail Transport

• Dance Out the Lead Poisoning – Meeting with the Director of the Performance ‘Our Lady of Szopienice’

• Finals of the Quiz: Rail Transport

• Virtual Workshop on Rail Industry

• Former Silesia in the Paintings by Marian Knapik/ Grupa Janowska

• Katowice, the City of Science and Education for Modern Road Transport – Goals, Challenges, Current Research, and New Technologies

• Air Transport Day

• The Impact of Long-Term Pollutant Emissions –Environmental, Health, and Socio-cultural Effects of NonFerrous Metallurgy

• Talk: Rawa River – Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

• From Katowice into the World: Gerda Stryi-Leitgeb and Ruth Storm

• Ethnowalk ‘In the Footsteps of Ancient Magic, or a Story About Noon, Ghosts and Drowners’ with Workshops on Making Bags with Linocut of beboki

• Employer Day in Air Transport

• International Scientific Conference on Transport Problems

• Lecture: Between Spirit and Matter – Agnieszka Pilchowa and Others: On Spiritualists and Clairvoyants in Silesia

• Finals of the Quiz: Air Transport

• Talk: Silesian and Zagłębie Theatre as Institutes of Regional Memory

• Virtual Workshops on Air Industry

• Screening of the Sono-Visual Composition: Ryszard Czernow. Still Life. THE SPIRIT OF MATTER

• Katowice, the City of Science and Education for Modern Air Transport – Goals, Challenges, Current Research, and New Technologies

• Traffic Engineering and Mobility in the City of the Future Day

• Employer Day in Traffic Engineering

• Study Tour of the Train Factory of Alstom Polska S.A. in Chorzów

• Finals of the Quiz: Traffic Engineering and Mobility in the City of the Future

• Behind the Scenes of the Public Transport Organisation –Online Workshop at the Metropolitan Transport Authority in Katowice

• Katowice, the City of the Modern Transport System

• Field Trip to the Goczałkowice Reservoir

• Student Scientific Session

• Lasers in Transport

• Requirements for Pressure Vessels in Transport –Research Methodology

• New Power Sources in Transport

• Hydrogen in Transport

• Mechatronics in Transport Day

• Transport Robot Competition – Closing of the Workshop on Mechatronics in Transport

• Recommendations for the Future of Transport in the Region Day

• Seminar: LOUDer about Kindness

• Raw Materials of the Future –No New Technologies Without Them

• Guided Exhibition Tour: Rocks and Minerals of Upper Silesia – Not Just Coal…

• Tour of Czesław Poborski Museum of Mineral Deposit Geology

• GRAFFITI

• Workshop: Structure Architect

• Recipe for a Comet – Talk with a Show

• Crystal Landscape – Exhibition of Multimedia Works by Maria Constanza Ferreira and Students of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design

• From Jan Czochralski’s Monocrystal to Graphene | Exhibition Opening

• Development of Transport Sector in Morocco: Current Projects and Future Perspectives

• Competition Results and Announcement of Winners

• Electric, Hybrid, and Hydrogen Vehicle Models

• Workshop for Residents: How to Properly Build Yourself a Green Roof

• Multimedia Organ Music Evening

• Folk Cut-out Workshop with Historical Motifs from the City of Katowice

• Book Launch: Blue Wars. Inside the Most Brutal Football Gang and Meet-the-Author with Marcin Pietraszewski

• Collective Atlas of the District

• 2nd International Academic Conference ‘Energy Justice & Energy Transition’

• CINiBA Tour | Guided Tour of the Library in Silesian

• Educational and Health Campaign in the Field of Cancer Prevention | Mobile Container of the EU Commission's Directorate-General for Research and Innovation

• Tour of the WALCOWNIA Zinc Metallurgy Museum

• Walk around the Buczyna Wilderness

• Find Out What Your Voice Sounds Like! Speech Therapy Consultations

• LOUDer about Kindness! Promoting a Social Campaign

• Opening of CAMP DREAM. SPEAK. LIVE – Dare to Dream, Speak and Live!

• Focus on Mindfulness When Stress Steals Your Voice!

• CAMP – Day 2

• In the Heart of Silesia. In Nikiszowiec. At the Zimbardo Center. Change Depends on Us.

• Polyphony on Speech Therapy – Open Youth Forum

• How to Speak So That People Listen and Understand?

• CAMP – Day 3

• Every Voice Matters! Every Voice Counts! Parade and Open Mic

• My Voice, Your Voice, Our Voice – Mothers and Daughters in Relationship

• Voice Yoga – Freeing the Voice for Everyone

• CAMP – Day 4

• Let’s Help Children Speak with a Kind Voice!

• Each of Us Is Different, Each of Us Is the Same –We All Have the Right to Speak in Our Own Voice! InterACT Workshop for Children

• Mental Toughness – Do You Need It? You Decide!

• CAMP – Day 5

• CAMP Dream. Speak. Live. Poland – The Grand Finale!

• Take Care of Your Voice, Value Your Voice!

• Seeing the Voice: Using Praat for Speech Analysis and in Speech Therapy

• International Seminar: Stuttering and Cluttering. Everybody has a Voice!

• Meeting with a Living Book – Let’s Give a Voice to the Silenced!

• Hear Our Voice, Chill Out and Let Us Communicate! –Audio-Visual Archive of the Marginalised

• Young Speech Therapists Have a Voice!

• Let’s Hear Each Other! Meeting of Members of the Scientific Research Group of Young Speech Therapists from the University of Silesia with Students of Silesian Universities of Third Age

• The Female Voice in Music – Recital by Prof. Elżbieta Grodzka-Łopuszyńska, Accompaniment by Dagmara Niedziela

• Photography Exhibition by Franco Zeccina – Silesia We Don’t Want to See

• ‘Clean Victory: The Game to Defeat Bacteria’

• ‘The Micro-Civilisation Inside Our Intestines’

• Droniada Junior Final in the ‘Transport of the Future in the City of 2050’ Competition

• Hydrogen Buses in the City of Rybnik

• Hydrogen Bus Ride in Katowice with a Short Technical Presentation of the Vehicle

• Into the World of Plant Cells with a Microscope

• The Micro World in Our Kitchen

• The Great Adventures of Flying Bacteria

• CSI: Gliwice

• Micro-World in My Body and around Me – Should We Be Afraid of All Microorganisms?

• [CANCELLED] ‘Micro-Conference Presenting Infographics as Part of the Competition ‘Secrets of the World of Microorganisms’ - Outcome of the Competition’

• Fascinating Microworld, or What Goes on in Grass...

• A Close Encounter with the Mysterious Inhabitants of the Waters

• Microscopic Hollywood – The Role of Microorganisms in Human Life

• Microworld in Photography

• Bacteria Are Capable of Dismantling Many Pollutions What Are Your Superpowers?

• Colourful Mysteries of Cells

• Closer to Nature, Closer to Yourself

• ‘What We Can Learn from Nature – Brilliant Microorganisms and Smart Materials’

• ‘Journey to the Centre of a Tree’

• Wanted! Useful Bacteria and Their Important Characteristics

• With a Slide and an Eye

• Hidden Guardians of Plants – About Bacteria That Feed and Defend

• What Lives Inside Plants

• Microfungi Potentially Pathogenic to Human

• Microcosmos of Opportunities

• Zombie Ants and Underground Plantations –On the Role of Microorganisms in the Lives of Insects

• Nature as a Constructor – Biomimetic Solutions from the Micro to Macro Scale

• Bears in a Micro Scale – Biological Mysteries of Tardigrades

• Invisible, Yet Present – Where Micro Fungi are Hidden

• Increasingly Micro World of Plants

• Diverse Funga

• Durability of Plastics and Reliability of Microorganisms

• Microcosmos of Macro Opportunities

• Micro-Lectures Online Part 1: Microworld in the Service of Humans

• Micro-Lectures Online Part 2: Microworld in the Service of Humans

• Exhibition as Part of the ‘Fascinating Microworld and Its Secrets’ – Results of the Competition’

• Fungi Trapped in Glass

• 1st Concerto of the Participants of the 14th International Piano Masterclasses

• Social or Musical Dialogue? Contrasts, Similarities and Forms

• The Power of Black and White/BALANS

• Black and White. The Structure and History of Keyboard Instruments

• Contrasts of Harmony and Mood

• Musical Landscapes with Tuwim. Lutosławski, Sokorski, Laks, Markiewicz

• 2nd Concerto of the Participants of the 14th International Piano Masterclasses

• Musical Domain of Contrast

• Contrast in Beauty, Styling and Photography

• Between a Joke and Drama. Contrasts in Scherzos by Frederic Chopin

• Contrast. Served and Studied

• 3rd Concerto of the Participants of the 14th International Piano Masterclasses

• Recorded vs Written Down – Ways of Naming and Noting Vocal Features in Traditional Music

• Masterclass Recital Extraordinaire

• What Can We Learn from Diplomatic Blunders and Slip-ups?

• Knowledge on Human. How to Look at the Heart Through the Eyes of Echocardiography?

• Knowledge on Human. Illusion. Performance

• Knowledge about the Nearest World. Silesian for the Natives and Others. Lessons.

• Knowledge about Space – Space Academy: Workshop for Kids + Lecture for Everyone

• Knowledge on Elements. The Theatre of Fire.

• Open Data Day

• Fakescape. Escape from Fake News

• Knowledge about the Nearest World. Do Bees Dance on Holidays? Workshop for adults and children

• Knowledge on Space. Observing the Moon and the Night Sky Together.

• Knowledge in the Open Air – Picnic for Young and Old

• Knowledge about the World Created, Visit at Alvernia Studios

• Open-Air Cinema

• Ethnography Closer to You

• Portable Planetarium

• Cybersecurity in the Age of Digital Transformation –Open Discussion Panel for Youth and Adults

• Urban Game ‘From Industry to Science’, Open Urban Game for Students

• Closed Time – Exhibition at the Science Popularization Centre, Silesian University of Technology

• Art and Graphic Competition ‘Fascinating Microworld and Its Secrets’

• Popular Science Infographic Competition

• Wastewater Treatment Plants as Biorefineries – Challenges and Development Directions for the Wastewater Sector’

• Central Celebrations of World Heart Day 2024

• 14th International Music Course and Masterclasses for Pianists

• Challenging Sounds in Polish Pronunciation –The World of Polish Vowels

• On the Similarities between Human and Machine Speech

• In What Ways the Polish Language Is (Not) Similar to Chinese: On Language Typology

• Lecture 1: Ramayana – The Oldest Book?

• Lecture 2: The Book in the Middle Ages

• Lecture 3: Early Music – What Is It? On Different Shades of Musical Culture of Past Centuries

• Lecture Series: High-Context Cultures –About Far Eastern Cultures

• Far East Handicraft Workshops

• Language Workshops

• Direct Experience of Far Asia

• Alphabets of the World

• On Language Oppression

• Language in Pop Culture

• Anyone Can Be the Other – On Shaping Intercultural Sensitivity in Teaching Polish as a Foreign/Second Language

• Experiment! Music Workshops with Jędrzej Siwek

• Music and Electromagnetism: Sound Experiments in an EMC Chamber

• Greetings from the Land of Shadow – Event by Members of Academy of Fine Arts and Design’s Student Research Club syntax_error

• A Travelling Dance Party

• Conference and Workshops: Building Musicians' Careers –Strategies and Tools in Practice

• Concert of Participants of the Experiment! Workshop

• Exhibition Opening: Music of the City

• Musical Playground

• Musical Picnic

• Nikiszowiec District – Can It Captivate a Foreigner? –Interactive Workshop Explaining Regionalism and Regional Identity

• Borderland Cultures – Specificity, Richness, Challenges

• Culinary Trends of the World – What Is ‘Zero Waste’?

• Polish Language Test, Spelling Contest and Lecture: Language Is Like Air

• Meeting of Cultures and Traditions

• Great Silesian Reading – How Can Silesian Literature Captivate a Foreigner?

• International Polonaise

• Integration Workshop for Teachers of Polish as a Foreign Language

• Is Polish Literature Global?

• Reception of Polish Literature in China

• Polish Culture through the Eyes of Foreigners: From Stereotype to Understanding

• Polish Movie Shelf, or the Role of Film in Cultural Learning

• Are Borrowings Just Words?

• On the Slavic Language Community –Presentation of the Slavic Network Programme

• Akylai, or the Wise Moon – Kyrgyz Names

• How Do the People of India Communicate With Each Other?

• Language and Culture Tables

• The World’s Most Boring Scientific Experiment –Lecture and Live Broadcast of the Experiment

• Science for Relaxation – Podcast Series by the Rawa River

• Walking Tour around Katowice along the Path of Modernism

• Tour along the Neon Route

• Walking Tour of Katowice Mural Route

• Psychology of Boredom: What It Is and Why (Contrary to Appearances) We Need It

• Come and Check How Well You Can Get Bored

• Bike Tour along the Mural Route

• Workshop: Dubai, Mallorca, Corsica, or… Your Own Psyche? –On the Non-Obvious Direction of Holiday Travels

• Lecture: Boredom Outside – Boredom Inside? – A Few Words About the Art of Conducting Internal Conversations

• Boredom in the Forest

• Voices of the European City of Science Katowice 2024

• FestSlow

• Exhibition: Through the Eyes of Silesian Photographers –4th Edition – The Magic of Nature

• Movement Workshops: Yoga, Japanese Gymnastics, Pilates

• ‘Ecology in Education – Ecological Awareness of Poles’ –Interview with Prof. Piotr Skubała and Ryszard Kulik, PhD

• How It’s Done Abroad: Handicraft Workshops

• Workshop: Be Eco with EcoBot!

• Hasiomaszketnik Workshop

• EcoREADING ROOM ‘Among the Weeds’ –Meeting with Jacek Hugo-Bader

• Workshop: DHMO, or the Whole Truth About Water

• Creating Eco-Toys

• Workshop: EcoBAND – Music from Recycled Materials

• Mindful EcoWALK in Kościuszko Park in Katowice

• Eco Obstacle Course – Canmageddon

• Workshop: Clean Air – Healthy Future

• EcoREADING ROOM ‘Prayer for Rain’ –Meeting with Wojciech Jagielski

• It’s All Good! Workshop for Children about What Recycling, Instruments, Environment, and Music Have in Common!

• Workshop: Clean Air – Eco-Ways to Fight Micro-Pollution

• Lecture: The More the Better. On the Complexity of Interactions in Biodiversity

• Lecture: Eco-Logical? Reflections on True Ecology

• Workshop: EcoCREATIVELY

• EcoWALK: ‘Meetings with Nature’ – Wyrchczadeczka

• EcoMISSION – Between Blocks and Flowers. Discover the Secrets of Bees in a Big City…

• EcoSESSION at Kino Kosmos Cinema: Film Screening

• Workshop: Valuable Plastic

• Exhibition of Eco-Toys

• Workshop: Zero Waste Plant-Based Cooking

• Workshop: Natural Cosmetics and Personal Hygiene Products

• Lecture: Eco Organisation – Comprehensive Company Actions for Nature and Climate Protection

• Workshop: Wood in Its Various Forms –An Eco-Friendly Resource

• Discussion Panel with Residents and Academic Community –‘10 Things You Can Do for Clean Air. The Sum of Small Actions is a Success in the Fight Against Smog.’ LIFE Project ‘Silesia. Blue Sky Restored’

• LIFE Project ‘Silesia. Blue Sky Restored’ – Information Booth

• Panel Discussion: The Future of the Circular Economy: Challenges and Opportunities

• ‘Silesian Nature – More Exotic Than You Think’ –Meet-the-Author with Tomasz Sczansny, and Digital Photography Presentation

• Olympic Symbols – Olympic Wreath Weaving Workshop

• Opening Ceremony of Olympism Week

• Seminar on Women in Sports

• Conference: The Olympics Behind the Scenes

• Workshop: Street Breaking

• Sports Psychology

• Workshop: Skateboarding

• Sports Workshops: Gymnastics

• Side Event – Silesian Premiere of the Film When the Wind Becomes Silent | Rialto DOCumentalnie

• Practical Workshops: Sports Biomechanics

• Conference: Comprehensive Athlete Development

• Olympism – Educational Exhibition

• Olympism Sports Village in Dolina – Sports Tournaments, Games and Activities for Children and Youth

• Official Opening of Cancer Week

• Discussion: Women’s Cancers –Symptoms, Diagnostics, Treatment

• Ecological Workshop

• Do Plants Get Cancer?

• Diagnosis and Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers

• Prevention in Action: Mammobus

• Discovering the World from the Youngest Years

• Secondary School Students in Oncology

• SUM OPEN LAB DAY

• ISKIERKA Foundation – Childhood Cancer Day

• Film: The Broken Circle Breakdown

• Men’s Health Issues

• Attracted to Being Healthy

• White Saturday – Diagnose Cancer with Us

• Webinar: Perspectives of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

• Meeting and Joint Celebration of the End of Cancer Week

• Should We Stop Travelling?

• Roots of Happiness | Sosenko Family Collections Foundation; Exhibition Opening

• Roots of Happiness Exhibition

• Breathing Workshops at the Palm House in Gliwice

• Lecture: Can Loneliness Kill?

• Lecture: A Feast of Happiness – On Living Beautifully on a Plate

• EUCYS International Finals 2024

• Presentations by EU TalentOn Participants

• Scientific Conference of the World’s Top Scientists ‘TOP 2%’

• Science – What Benefits Does Society Gain from It? Rail Transport | Lectures and Discussions

• Science – What Benefits Does Society Gain from It? Road Transport | Workshops and Lectures

• 20th Scientific and Technical Conference TRANSPORT SYSTEMS THEORY AND PRACTICE. 10-11 September 2024

• Workshops at the Landscape Reading Station and Workshops on the Use of Geographic Information Systems in Tourism

• Open Workshops at the Landscape Reading Station

• Silesian Objects and the UNESCO List

• Conscious Travel in the Age of Digitalisation

• Film Screening: The Last Tourist

• Eye and Head Movement Controlled Game Salon

• Game Week Inauguration

• 1849 The Game of Sicilian Railways – Presentation of Games about Railway Construction

• Knowledge Revolution: School Game with Wikipedia in the Background

• Conversation with Michał Meiser: ‘From Idea to Board – How Navy Academy Is Created’

• Landscape Walk to Grojec Mountain in Żywiec

• Tourism in Katowice – Contemporary Challenges

• Gliwice Department Stores – Past and Present

• Good Practices in Implementing Sustainable Development Ideas in Tourism

• Responsibility of Travel Agencies towards Clients, Complaints Procedure and Legal Claims by Clients

• ‘Journey Through the Past…’ – How to Present History Using Outdoor Games

• Science in Sport | Presentation of the Technical Possibilities of a Rally Car

• Tour of the Silesian Voivodship Office (Sejmik Śląski)

• Simulator Demonstrations at the Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering, Silesian University of Technology

• Guided Tour of the Silesian Organ Museum

• ‘Bio-Trail’ with Michał Książek | Thematic Walk

• Educational Trip and Presentation of Techniques and Technologies Used by the State Fire Service

• Tour of Ateneum Theatre

• Workshops about Wojciech Korfanty

• Guided Tour of the Silesian Museum

• Tour of Silesian Philharmonic

• Tour of the Viewing Terraces Upper Silesian Pantheon in Katowice

• Educational Workshop about Assistance Dogs and Disabilities

• Safety and Modern Technologies in Ferrari Cars | Visit to Ferrari Katowice

• Measure Your Car’s Power for Free on the Chassis Dynamometer at Silesian University of Technology | Demonstration

• Tour of the Roman Catholic Basilica in Panewniki, Katowice

• Katowice in the Polish Film Chronicle | Screenings at the Światowid Cinema

• Workshop: What Exactly Do Bees Do in Winter?

• City Walk: Journalists, Owners, Councilors, Activists, Women Against Totalitarianism

• Thematic City Walk: Evangelicals in Katowice

• Family Education about Road Safety ‘Smurf Safe’ | Theatre Play

• Evening Tour of the Viewing Terraces Upper Silesian Pantheon in Katowice

• Free Opportunity to Have Your Car Checked at the Diagnostic Track (Without Proof of Inspection in Registration Document)

• FAULT REPORTING EDITING – Egalitarian and Democratic Urban Workshop Using Drawing

• Bicycle Trip: Mysteries of the Panewniki and Załęże Forests

• Guided Walk around the Załęże District

• Night Tour of the Silesian Theatre

• Palette Full of Katowice – Outdoor Painting Workshop

• Evening Tour of the Viewing Terraces Upper Silesian Pantheon in Katowice

• Night Walk around the Buczyna Wilderness

• FAULT REPORTING EDITING – City Walk and Creation of a Map of Personal Attractions

• Wastewater Treatment Plant: Gigablok Educational Path

• Tour of the Machine Room of ‘Bartosz’ Shaft Complex in the Silesian Museum in Katowice

• Presentation and Board Game Competitions on Topics of Health, City, Nature, History, and Classics

• Silesia – Hub of New Technologies

• International Conference: European Rivers –Problems and Challenges

• Forum of Polish Mathematicians

• 50 Years of German Studies at the University of Silesia

• 3rd Polish Senior Épée Cup – 5th Prof. Zbigniew Czajkowski Memorial

• Conference of Departments of Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Chemicals – Your Atomic Feast of Knowledge!

• 9th Geography Evening Before the Matura Exam

• International Exhibition Inspired by the Work of Richard Long

• 12th Polish Graphic Art Triennial

• Business X Design

• Photography Exhibition: ‘RYSZARD CZERNOW. A WORLD OF BRICKS. SECOND CHAPTER’

• Pi Day

• AWFalia

• 15th Katowice Running Festival named after Jerzy Kukuczka

• 55 Years of the Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Silesian University of Technology – Scientific Conference on 55th Polish Metallurgist Day

• Scientific Conference: Communication, Interaction and Emotions in the Language Classroom

• Scientific Conference: Christianity in Europe. Questions of Unity

• Open Day at the Academy of Physical Education

• Design 32 – Best Graduation Projects Competition

• Lecture Series and Scientific Conference: Science is Among Us

• 5 Days of Cultural Studies and Media Cultures

• Weekly Cyclical Workshops, Demonstrations, and Lectures for Secondary School Students

• Katowice City of Science for Modern Transport –School Competitions with Workshops

• Open Day and Employer Day at the Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering in Katowice

• Health-Oriented Training Sessions in the City of Science Katowice

• Scientific Trip to the Świętokrzyskie Mountains for the 50th Anniversary of the Faculty of Natural Sciences

• Biologists’ Night

• Expert Debate: ‘Islands of Knowledge: Environment – Global Change – Action Strategies – Cross-Sectoral Perspective’

• National Conference: The Audit Landscape in Science and Practice

• International Student Drawing Triennial

• City of Knowledge – Festival of Many Questions

• International Student Scientific Conference

• Seminar: ‘Physics of Climate Change’

• Music of Katowice – City of Science and Creativity

• 35th Conference on Embryology and Workshops for Students and Teachers

• Panewniki Wild Boar Run

• Inauguration of the University Research Camp 2024

• 2024 Conference of Finance Departments

• Post-Industrial Plant-Human Dictionary

• International Scientific Conference on Motor Control

• Conference for Polish Ophthalmologists Focused on Retinal Diseases

• 22nd Student Scientific Session

• 1st National Scientific Conference: Storytelling in Education, Environmental Education, Therapy and Human Development

• Summer School for Speech Therapy Students of the University of Silesia

• Recurring International Conference by the Centre for Economics of Climate Change

• Summary Conference of a Two-Year NAWA-Funded Project

• Prestigious Recurring Event by the British Accounting & Finance Association

• International Scientific Conference: Modern Strategies for Supporting Health, Fitness, and Sports Training

• International Conference: Community of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Towards Supporting Well-Being and Sustainability

• Researchers' Night in the City of Science Katowice 2024 under the Theme ‘The Power of Silesian Researchers!’

• Plenary Session of the European Polar Board (EPB) and Scientific Session ‘High North and Far South from European and Regional Perspectives’

• 23rd Polish-Hungarian Winter Seminar

• Cognitive Science Meetings at the University of Silesia

• Science is a Woman – Women in Science for Women of the Silesian Voivodeship

• 1st National Scientific Conference on Film Law: ‘Changes in the Audio-Visual Market’

• ECO-GRAPHICS – Workshop on Artistic Lithography (Planographic Printing)

• Game Music Fest – IN PROGRESS

• National Day of Materials Engineering

• Student Scientific and Training Conference: Contemporary Challenges in Paediatric Practice – Infectious Diseases, 4th Edition

• Concert: Lutosławski – Genius of New Form

• Conference: Contemporary Challenges in Public Administration and Business

• 16th International Scientific Conference: Theoretical and Practical Aspects of Distance Learning (‘E-learning & Enhancing of Soft Skills’)

• Modelling Legal Education Pathways in the era of AI and Gen Z

• Brass Band in the World of Film Music

• Conference: Everyday Life of a People with Hearing Impairments’ – Art and Creativity in the Lives of People with Hearing Impairments

• Gaude (Joy) – Images, Sounds, Technologies…

• Mechatronics – From Idea to Project to Implementation

• Scientific Conference: ‘Crystals – Order, Beauty and Usefulness’ with the Award Gala for the Winners of the National Crystal Growth Competition for School Youth

• The Golden Decade of Polish Himalayan Mountaineering

• St. Lucy’s Day Celebrations

• 28th Academic Concert for the University of Silesia Celebration and the 55th Anniversary of Student Song and Dance Ensemble ‘Katowice’

• 21st Węgiel Film Festival

• Espresso with Experts! Inspiring Meetings of Youth and Science Masters

• No Magic, Just Science – Chemistry for a Better Future

• New Image of Former Industrial Cities in Metropolis GZM

• 1st Psychiatry Conference for Students and Doctoral Candidates: ‘Dimensions’

• Interdisciplinary Music Performance: ‘Trampek and Friends’

• Lecture and Workshop: Interpersonal Communication in the Pedagogical Triad – Discovering Rules and Secrets

• 5th Academic Seminar ‘Physicochemical Methods in Scientific Research’

• 10th Conference of the Polish Society for Human and Evolution Studies

• Open Day at Łukasiewicz – EMAG: Innovation, Science, and Technology

• Forum Medicine 2.0

• 3MT – Three Minute Thesis Competition for PhD Students

• ‘Nistotamowim – Feeling and Understanding. A Three-Stage Indigenous Performative Process’ – Visit by Floyd Favel

• Silesian Cognitive Science Conference: The Code of Your Mind

• 10th National Social Work Week

• 12th International Master's Students’ Conference ‘Border –Civilization, Culture, Language’

• PoetykON

• KinotON

• Scientific Conference ‘Oriental Meetings in Sosnowiec 2024’

• International Interdisciplinary Science Conference: Panorama of 21st-Century Slavic Research and Studies

• National Congress of Departments, Institutes, and Research Teams in Public Economic Law

• Experience the Future Now. Open Days at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering

• ‘Education against Values and Norms of Social Order: Ideas – Discourses – Research’

• ‘See the Sound’ – Free Workshop in Stop Motion Animation

• Politifest – Discover the World of Politics!

• Lusophony Day 2024

• Film Screening: NATO Article 5

• Barańczak in America

• Rian Koch – Music in the American Way

• Egyptian Mummies as a Cross-Cultural Phenomenon –PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE

• Conference: Wikimania 2024 – Collaboration of the Open and Wiki Science Competition Photo Open-Air Exhibition

• Metropolis GZM Innovation Summit

• HYDRO(GEO)LOGY

• Cave Crafting, Speleology, and Creativity –Educational-Research Booth of the University of Silesia

• Media Communication in Research and Practice II: Change in Media – Media in Times of Change

• PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE: The Song of My Cid –History, Poetry, Interpretation

• PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE: Rejecting the Ladder –The Surprising Vitality of Ancient Concepts in Modern Egyptological Research

• PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE: City-Mass-Machine or Odyssey? Reception of Carthage’s History in Comics

• PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE: Gnosticism in Hollywood – From European Academia to American Pop Culture

• PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE: Pharaoh by Bolesław Prus through the Eyes of an Egyptologist

• PEOPLE – SCIENCE – INFLUENCE: Ancient Egypt in Polish Artistic Culture

• European 360RG-CHEM Challenge

• Culture Shock: Normalising Discomfort in Times of Change

• 4th Silesian Criminal Policy Forum: Contemporary Threats in Land, Water, and Air Traffic: Legal, Criminological, Forensic, Sociological, Security, Psychological, and Media Perspectives

• MUSICALIVE – INTERNATIONAL FORUM 4ALL

• Seminar: New Horizons in Education – Interdisciplinarity as a Path to Educational Development

• 19th Katowice-Krakow Seminar on Condensed Matter Physics

• 6th Metropolitan Choral Festival

• Digital Literature – Region – World

• Taste of Games: Food Representations and Eating Practices in Video Games

• After-Words/After-Worlds: The Legacy of Jacques Derrida

• Svolte e cambiamenti negli studi letterari, linguistici e glottodidattici/Research Turns in Contemporary Italian Studies: Literary, Linguistic, and Glottodidactic Approaches

• Nationwide Literary Campaign ‘New Perspectives’

• In the Courtroom of Interwar Poland

• A More Beautiful Side of Science – Past and Present of Exact Sciences

• Spaces of Translation 9

• FameLab

• Early Childhood and Primary Education Teachers –Challenges and Conditions

• International Medical Congress of Silesia SIMC 2024

• 36th Conference of the Association for PR and Promotion of Polish Universities ‘Trends. Technologies. Tactics. Communication Talks in European City of Science Katowice’

• Young Electrician’s Day

• Doctoral Student Day

• Summer GeoPhoto 2024

• Corporate Governance Congress – Perspectives for Development – NEW TRENDS – DEI

• IT SEC [17 53c] from Every Angle – Cybersecurity for Everyone

• HackEmotion

• Planszofest – Board Game Festival

• Youth Social Action Festival: LIDERZY DOBROCZYNNOŚCI

• Science Inspires! Experiment, Discover, Inspire

• Gliwice and Lviv as Cradles of Power Theory and Modern Electrical Engineering – Legacy of Prof. S. Fryze

• Urban Planning for Health Equity

• Intercultural Education Workshops: Between Cultures and Generations

• Learning from the Masters – Prof. Nazim Hussain: Does Greenwashing Pay Off? Evidence from the Corporate Bond Market

• Learning from the Masters – Prof. Reggy Hooghiemstra: How to Incentivize Executives to Pay Attention to Climate Change? The (Im)Possibilities

• At the Intersection of Cultures and Languages

• Social Media and Sustainable Development Awareness

• Take Care of Your Finances – Financial Ombudsman Day at the Faculty of Law and Administration

• Summer in the City with Scientists – September Discoveries for Everyone

• Height Access Techniques in Electrical Engineering Work

• GIS Day 2024 at the Faculty of Natural Sciences

• Boundaries in Cultural Memory – Open Seminar with Prof. Eve Patten from Trinity College Dublin

• University for Children and Their Parents –Learning through Play

• Prof. Jozef Swider International Festival of Music

• Cycling through Post-Industrial Landscapes

• Can Mining-Damaged Rivers Be Valuable?

• How to Assess River Conditions

• Why and How to Conduct Comprehensive Soil Studies

• 3rd Inter-School Legal Contest for the Dean’s Cup of OIRP Katowice and a Place in the Law Programme under the Patronage of the Dean of the Faculty of Law and Administration, University of Silesia

• Welcome to the SUM Doctoral School – Your Path to Success

• 6th World GO Day – The Art of Health: Graffiti and Gynaecological Awareness

• Seminar: ‘The Art of Design: City, Image, Sound’

• Open Day at the Institute of Physics

• 7th Silesian Pharmaceutical Scientific Meeting – From Science to Patient

• Microscopic Innovations: TESCAN Collaboration Network Meeting & Workshop within the Framework of the European City of Science Katowice 2024

• Mineral Fair

• Communication Workshop: Let’s Put All Cards on the Table

• Biomaterials Day

• 21st Conference on Medical Prevention ‘Prophylaxis in Medicine’

• Road to Professor – The Life of Prof. Fryze

• 1st Interdisciplinary Interuniversity Conference

• Beyond the River

• Noc Anglistów – Night of Anglicists

• Books, Libraries, and Information – 50 Years of Studies at the University of Silesia

• Musical Impressions – Anniversary Concert

• 4th Conference on Social Sciences

• ‘55 Years of Silesian Biology’ – Life, Environment, Humanity

• Workshop: Green Competency Academy

• Master Sessions: Green Competency Academy

• Silesian Electrocardiology Autumn 2024

• PLENER GÓRNY ŚLĄSK XXI – Upper Silesia Outdoor Art and Science Project

• Green Cities

• Mathematics in Earth Sciences

• 4th Conference on Obstetric and Gynecological Ultrasound

• KreatywUŚ Festival

• Joyful Autumn Music – Let’s Meet and Sing Together

• Portable Literary Festival

• XYZ-AI – Artificial Intelligence through the Eyes of Three Generations of Lawyers

• International Choral Meetings ‘Cantemus Simul’

• The Formula for Balance – Take Care of Your Mental Health

• Webinar: Haemorrhagic Complications in Cardiology from Other Specialists’ Perspectives – What Cardiologists Might Overlook

• Be Healthy! Be Great!

• Economics Without Borders – 4th Edition

• Open Lecture by Prof. Jadwiga Jośko-Ochojska

• Workshop: Fundamentals of Echocardiography

• Medical-Artistic Workshops: Between Health and Art

• Viral Diseases and Vaccinations in Pregnant Women

• Cultural Heritage and Its Significance

• Art, Photography, and Artistic Inspiration in Working with Children

• Educational Workshops on Shepherding and Wool Products

• Musical Exercises and Folklore Stories

• Fusing Mosaic

• Heritage in Action

• Music, Dance, Singing, and Folk Costume

• Climate and Environment – Green Chemistry

• Climate and Environment – Material Recycling

• Climate and Environment – Eco-Consciousness

• Yoga Workshop

• Juggling Workshop

• Social Innovations

• Cohort Workshop in Design Thinking

• A Practical Guide to Game-Based Learning –How to Use Games in Education?

• Artificial Intelligence – Should We Be Afraid?

• Industries of the Future

• ‘Together for Population Health’ –

• Cooperation between Medics and Educators in Promoting Health Behaviours

• Conference: Teachers for Teachers within the Creation and Critique Path

• Campus Tour

• ‘The World is Whole’ – Workshops on the Practical Use of Art Themes in Working with Students

List of Locations for Year-Round Programme in the ECSK 2024

(selected array)

• Katowice Business University, Katowice

• Karol Szymanowski Academy of Music, Katowice

• Academy of Fine Arts and Design, Katowice

• WSB University, Dąbrowa Górnicza

• Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice

• Gymnastics Hall, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice

• Academic Secondary School, Gliwice

• Alvernia Studios, Village of Nieporaz

• Ambasada Śląska, Katowice

• Amphitheatre at Grojec, Żywiec

• AUTO-ZIĘBA Sp. z o.o., Katowice

• Roman Catholic Basilica Panewniki, Katowice

• Library of Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice

• Main Library of the Medical University of Silesia, Katowice

• Library of the Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Silesian Library, Katowice

• Medical University of Silesia Branch Library, Katowice –Ligota District

• Black Woolf, Katowice

• Cavatina Hall, Bielsko-Biała

• CECHOWNIA – Science and Technology Centre, Gliwice

• Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Clean Coal Technologies Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Center for Oncological Diagnosis and Therapy, ul. Ceglana 35, 40-514 Katowice

• Center for Experimental Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice

• Ecological Education Centre, Katowice

• Education and Congress Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Centre for Organic and Nanohybrid Electronics (CONE), Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Centre for Scientific Information and Academic Library, Katowice

• Tourist Information Centre, Katowice

• Centre of Intergenerational Integration, Chorzów

• Student Creativity Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Vocational and Continuing Education School No. 1, Gliwice

• Centre of Culture and Dialogue ‘Doha’, Katowice

• ‘MROWISKO’ Students’ Culture Centre, Gliwice

• ‘Victoria’ Culture Centre, Gliwice

• Centrum Multidyscyplinarne - Lodowisko, Wrotkarnia, Ice and Roller Skating Rink, Village of Pawłowice

• Centre for Modern Information Technology, University of Economics, Katowice

• Centre for New Technologies, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Centre for Non-Governmental Organisation, Katowice

• Center for Science Communication, Gliwice

• Krzysztof Czuma Psychiatry Centre, Katowice

• Zimbardo Centre, Katowice – Nikiszowiec District

• ‘National House’ Cieszyn Cultural Centre, Cieszyn

• Jewish cemetery, Katowice

• Pedestrian area at the University of Silesia Rectorate Building, Katowice

• Valley of Three Ponds, Katowice

• Dolinka Murckowska Valley, Katowice

• House of Education of the Silesian Library, Katowice ul. Dworcowa, Katowice

• Railway Station, City of Wodzisław Śląski

• Railway Station, Bytom

• Egomedica. Centrum zdrowia psychicznego NZOZ, Częstochowa

• European HealthTech Innovation Center (EHTIC), Silesian University of Technology, Zabrze

• Euro-Centrum, Katowice

• Fabryka Naukowców Sp. z o.o., Gliwice

• Silesian Philharmonic, Katowice

• Silesian University of Technology Branch in Rybnik

• Fizjolandia Rehabilitation Centre, Sosnowiec

• Fundacja Centrum Logopedyczne, Katowice

• ISKIERKA Foundation, Katowice

• Galeria Katowicka Shopping Mall, Katowice

• Szałfynster Art Gallery, Katowice

• BWA Contemporary Art Gallery, Katowice

• ‘Elektrownia’ Contemporary Art Gallery, Czeladź

• Wilson Shaft Gallery, Katowice

• GEONATURA KIELCE – Centre for Geo-Education, Kielce

• GEOsfera, Jaworzno

• Upper Silesian Child Health Centre, Katowice

• Sports Hall and Swimming Pool, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice

• Post-mining Waste Heap, Katowice – Murcki District

• Jazzclub Hipnoza, Katowice

• ‘Dar Serca’ Hospice, Częstochowa

• Emilia Plater Secondary School No. 2, Sosnowiec

• C.K. Norwid Secondary School No. 3, Będzin

• Institute of Regional Research of the Silesian Library, Katowice

• Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Institute for Ecology of Industrial Areas (IETU), Katowice

• August Chełstowski Institute of Physics, University of Silesia, Chorzów

• Institute of Computer Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Sosnowiec

• Institute of Fine Arts, University of Silesia, Cieszyn

• Institute of Innovative Technologies EMAG, Katowice

• University of Silesia Campus, ul. Moniuszki (at the intersection with ul. Bankowa)

• Karpacki Bank Genów, Village of Jaworzynka

• Lutheran Cathedral of Resurrection

• Department of Foundry, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• KATO Blues FACES, Katowice

• Kato Science Corner, Katowice

• Kato.werk – Silesian social workshop, Katowice

• August Hlond Catholic Secondar School, Chorzów

• Katowice City of Gardens – Institution of Culture, Katowice

• Culture Zone, Katowice

• Forest Park, Katowice

• BOKAWA Café, Katowice

• Café at Zagłębiowska Mediateka, Sosnowiec

• Bajka Stage – Amok Cinema, Gliwice

• Helios Cinema, Sosnowiec

• Janosik Cinema, Żywiec

• ‘Kosmos’ Cinema, Katowice

• ‘Światowid’ Cinema, Katowice

• Kinoteatr Rialto, Katowice

• Clinics for Urology, Zabrze

• ‘Sezam’ Club, Bytom

• Klub Sztukateria, City of Knurów

• Guide Coal Mine, Zabrze

• St Joseph's Church, Katowice – Józefowiec District

• Church of the Holy Family and St. Maximilian Kolbe, Katowice – Brynów District

• Church of the Resurrection, Katowice

• Krzywa 9, Katowice

• ‘Książnica Cieszyńska’ Library, Cieszyn

• Księgarnia Piastowska Bookstore, Cieszyn

• Laboratory of the Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Laboratory of Advanced Material Technologies and Mechatronics, Robotics and Subtractive Manufacturing, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Murckowski Forest Nature Reserve, Katowice, Tychy

• Panewniki Forests, Katowice

• Leśnictwo Panewniki Forestry, Forest Inspectorate, Regional Directorate of the State Forests, Katowice

• Kochanowski Secondary School at ul. Licealna 1, City of Świętochłowice

• Limbo Bouldering: Climbing Wall, Katowice

• Laboratory of Moving Images and Interaction (LORI) at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design, Katowice

• Katowice-Muchowiec Airfield, Katowice

• Airfield in Gliwice – Trynek District

• International Congress Centre, Katowice

• ‘Bogucice-Zawodzie’ Municipal Cultural Centre, Katowice

• ‘Miejscownik. Tygiel Kulturalny’ Bookstore, Katowice

• J. Śniegoń Municipal Public Library, Town of Wisła

• Municipal Public Library, City of Piekary Śląskie

• Municipal Public Library, City of Ruda Śląska

• Fire Department, Katowice

• Municipal Primary School No. 5, City of Piekary Śląskie

• City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• ‘Południe’ City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• ‘Bogucice-Zawodzie’ City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• ‘Południe’ City Cultural Centre, Katowice – Piotrowice District

• ‘Szopienice-Giszowiec’ City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• ‘Bogucice-Zawodzie’ City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• ‘Zawodzie’ City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• Municipal Business Incubator rawa.ink, Katowice

• Municipal Social Welfare Centre, Katowice

• City Cultural Centre, Katowice

• Katowice-Pyrzowice Airport, Village of Ożarowice

• Ministerstwo ds. Samotności [Ministry of Loneliness], Katowice

• Minus1.artspace, Katowice

• Muflon Studio, Katowice

• ‘Upper Silesian Ethnographic Park’ Museum, Chorzów

• Printing Museum, Cieszyn

• Museum of Katowice History, Katowice

• Museum of the History of Computers and Information Technology, Katowice

• WALCOWNIA – Museum of Metallurgy Cynku, Katowice

• Metallurgy Museum, Chorzów

• Museum of Medicine and Pharmacy, Sosnowiec

• Museum of Silesian Organs, Katowice

• Silesian Museum, Katowice

• Museum in Gliwice

• Forest Inspectorate, Katowice

• Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology, Gliwice

• National Bank of Poland, Regional Branch in Katowice

• National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Katowice

• Wastewater treatment plant: Ścieżka Edukacyjna Gigablok, Katowice

• PKO B.P. S.A. Branch No. 1, City of Rybnik

• PKO B.P. S.A. Branch No. 1, Katowice

• PKO B.P. S.A. Branch No. 1, City of Ruda Śląska

• PKO B.P. S.A. Branch No. 1, Sosnowiec

• PKO B.P. S.A. Branch, Chorzów

• PKO B.P. S.A. Branch, City of Mikołów

• Oficyna Drukarska of the Academy of Fine Arts and Design, Katowice

• Garden of Child and Youth Care Homes, Katowice

• Silesian Opera, Bytom

• Asnyk Sports Centre, Municipal Sports and Recreation Centre (MOSiR), Katowice

• Local Activity Programme Wełnowiec-Józefowiec and Dąb, Katowice

• Palm House, Gliwice

• Palace of Zagłębie Culture, Dąbrowa Górnicza

• Youth Palace, Katowice

• Upper Silesian Pantheon, Katowice

• Ludomir Różycki State Music School of the 1st and 2nd Degree, Gliwice

• Mieczysław Karłowicz State Music School of the 1st and 2nd Degree, Katowice

• Jacek Malczewski State Secondary School of Visual Arts, Katowice

• Józef Pankiewicz State Secondary School of Visual Arts, Katowice

• Park 12C, Zabrze

• Kosciuszko Park, Katowice

• Murcki Park, Katowice

• Peace Park, Cieszyn

• Silesian Insurgents Park, Katowice

Silesian Park, Chorzów

• Forest Park, Katowice

• Apiary by Zadole Park, Katowice

• Józef Lompa Pedagogical Provincial Library, Katowice

• Plac Andrzeja Square, Katowice

• Plac Miarki Square, Katowice

• Plac Ofiar Terroru 49 Square, Town of Rydułtowy

• Plac Wolności Square, Katowice

• Planetarium - The Silesian Science Park, Chorzów

• Silesian University of Technology, Campus in Gliwice

• Silesian University of Technology, Campus in Katowice

• Faculty of Architecture, Silesian University of Technology, Branch in Katowice

• Silesian University of Technology, Campus in Zabrze

• Faculty of Architecture, Silesian University of Technology, Branch in Katowice

• Faculty of Architecture, Silesian University of Technology, Campus in Gliwice

• Faculty of Materials Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, ul. Krasińskiego 8, Katowice

• Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, ul. Konarskiego 18B, Gliwice

• Faculty of Organisation and Management, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Monument of the Mining Effort, ul. Generała Kazimierza Pułaskiego, Katowice

• Poziom 450: Climbing Wall, Sosnowiec

• St. Elizabeth Local Prevention and Therapeutic Facility, Bytom

• Local Activity Programme Wełnowiec-Józefowiec and Dąb Municipal Social Welfare Centre, Katowice

• Bus Stop: Murcki – Wzgórze Wandy, Katowice

• Radio Katowice, Katowice

• RawaINK, Katowice

• Regional Teacher Training Centre WOM, Katowice

• Rectorate of the University of Silesia, Katowice

• Rondo Sztuki Art Gallery, Academy of Fine Arts and Design, Katowice

• Corner of three streets: ul. Dworcowa, ul. Mariacka, and ul. Mielęckiego, Katowice

• Ruins of the Victoria Theatre, Gliwice

• Rybnik Vocational Education Centre, City of Rybnik

• Market Square in Nikiszowiec District, Ambasada Śląska, ul. św. Anny, Katowice

• Market Square, Cieszyn

• Market Square, Gliwice

• Market Square, Katowice

• Hall of Academic Dance Ensemble ‘Dąbrowiacy’, Katowice

• Ferrari Katowice

• SCK Villa Fitzner, City of Siemianowice Śląskie

• Silesia City Center, Plac Słoneczny, Katowice

• Roździeńskiego Garden Square, Katowice

• SNOP Design, Bytom

• Spin-LAB, Chorzów

• spinPLACE – Centre for Creativity and Coworking, Katowice

• Spodek Arena, Katowice

• Stacja Artystyczna Rynek Art Gallery, Gliwice

• Library Station, City of Ruda Śląska

• Asnyk Stadium, Katowice

• AWF Stadium, Katowice

• Arena Zabrze (Stadion im. Ernesta Pohla w Zabrzu), Zabrze

• Culture Zone, Katowice

• Student Creativity Centre, Gliwice

• Krzysztof Kieślowski Film School at the University of Silesia, Katowice

• Music School, Gliwice

• Primary School No. 21 with Karol Miarka Integration Branches, Katowice

• Prof. W. Szafer Primary School No. 27, Katowice

• Primary School No. 29, Zabrze

• Janusz Korczak Primary School No. 3, Town of Czeladź.

• Primary School No. 64, Katowice

• Primary School No. 8, Gliwice

• Primary School with Bilingual Classes No. 6 of Polish Nobel Prize Winners, Gliwice

• Municipal Hospital, City of Ruda Śląska

• Silesian Medical Chamber, Katowice

• Medical University of Silesia, Katowice

• Silesian Voivodship Office (Sejmik Śląski), Katowice

• Silesian Theological Seminary, Katowice

• Ateneum Theatre, Katowice

• A. Mickiewicz Theatre, Cieszyn

• Korez Theatre, Katowice

• Teatr Rozrywki Theatre, Chorzów

• Silesian Theatre, Katowice

• Zagłębie Theatre, Sosnowiec

• Graduation Tower, Katowice – Zadole Neighbourhood

• Kaufland, ul. Brynowska 6, Katowice

• ul. Mariacka, Katowice

• Prof. Kornel Gibiński University Clinical Centre in Katowice

• University of Economics, Katowice

• University of Economics, building A, Katowice

• University of Economics, building B, Katowice

• University of Economics, Rectorate building, Katowice

• Open University at the University of Silesia, Katowice

• University of Silesia, Katowice

• University of Silesia, Cieszyn

• Institute of Materials Engineering, University of Silesia, ul. 75 Pułku Piechoty 1A, Chorzów

• Library of the University of Silesia, Branch in Cieszyn

• Uroczysko Buczyna Nature and Landscape Complex, Katowice

• Municipal Office, City of Tychy

• City Hall, City of Bielsko-Biała

• City Hall, Dąbrowa Górnicza

• City Hall, Zabrze

• Statistical Office, Katowice

• Maria Skłodowska-Curie Secondary School No. 8, Katowice

• Water Tower, Zabrze

• Wodny Plac Zabaw Biedronki Water Playground, ul. Łętowskiego, Katowice

• Wodny Plac Zabaw Tysiąclecie Water Playground, near Aleja Księżnej Jadwigi Śląskiej, Katowice

• Wodny Plac Zabaw Water Playground, Załęski Park, Katowice

• Wodny Plac Zabaw Water Playground, ul. Gen. Pułaskiego 71, Katowice

• Voivodeship Plant Health and Seed Inspection Service, Katowice

• Faculty of Architecture, Silesian University of Technology, Branch in Katowice

• Faculty of Automation, Electronics and Computer Science, Gliwice

• Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Faculty of Mining, Safety Engineering and Industrial Automation, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Faculty of Humanities, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Humanities, University of Silesia, Sosnowiec

• Faculty Materials Science And Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Katowice

• Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice

• Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Sosnowiec

• Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Zabrze

• Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Silesia, Sosnowiec

• Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Chorzów

• Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Silesia, Sosnowiec

• Faculty of Law and Administration, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Arts and Educational Science, University of Silesia, Cieszyn

• Faculty of Theology, University of Silesia, Katowice

• Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Katowice

• Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Silesia, Bytom

• Higher Silesian Seminary, Katowice

• Ignacy Historic Mine, City of Rybnik

• Zagłębiowska Mediateka, Sosnowiec

• Department of Physical Education and Adapted Physical Activity, Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice

• Cieszyn Castle, Cieszyn

• Wojciech Kilar State Music School Complex, Katowice

• Preschool Complex No. 1 – Preschool No. 7, City of Siemianowice Śląskie

• Wojciech Korfanty Complex of Economic Schools, Katowice

• Technical and General Education School Complex, City of Siemianowice Śląskie

• Complex of Technical Schools, Rybnik

• Franciszek Shaft, City of Ruda Śląska

• Green Zone by the Rawa River, Katowice

• Rawa River Catchment Area, Katowice

• Bus Stop: Kokociniec Płochy, Katowice

• Association of Polish Art Photographers, Upper Silesia Area, Katowice

The publication presents an overview of selected events, programme elements, and organisational structures.

The full year-round programme is published on the website at https://program.miastonauki.pl/ Contakt: emn@us.edu.pl

Photos courtesy of the universities forming the Academic Consortium Katowice City of Science.

Editors: Justyna Szostek-Aksamit, PhD; Łukasz Lamża, PhD; Patrycja Kierlik

Coordination team: Justyna Szostek-Aksamit, PhD; Martyna Fołta; Adam Bała

Proofreading: Prof. Aldona Skudrzyk

Design and layout: Anna Kopaczewska

Infographic design: Karolina Skorupka

The publication was typeset using the DiGrotesk KatoScience typeface, designed by Marian Misiak

European City of Science Katowice 2024 was co-financed by the budget of the Silesian Voivodeship.

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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