Address
ul. Toruńska 55-57, 85-023 Bydgoszcz
Email address
internationaloffice@akp.bydgoszcz.pl
Phone Number
+48 797 328 407
Kujawy and Pomorze University in Bydgoszcz develops academic dialogue through scientific conferences, interdisciplinary meetings and international initiatives focused on contemporary social, cultural, legal, educational and technological challenges.
On October 24–25, 2025, at the headquarters of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy in Bydgoszcz, located at 55–57 Toruńska Street, we inaugurated the 16th “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. This year, the Congress is once again co-organized with the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and the City of Bydgoszcz.
The Congress was inaugurated by Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy. (…) The “One World – Many Cultures” Congress is a forum dedicated to broad-based intercultural dialogue and the exchange of ideas on critical issues facing humanity. In annual conference discussions, representatives of the social sciences, humanities, theology, medicine, and technology—from both domestic and international research centers—seek answers to the challenges of the world around us. Our international academic initiative addresses fundamental aspects of human existence and showcases the multicultural heritage of nations.
The initiative to hold annual academic meetings aims to create common ground for dialogue. Dialogue is an indispensable means and foundation for building lasting social bonds, and when based on truth, it is the only path to the coexistence of cultures and societies, as well as a dignified life for every human being. In light of the global geopolitical situation and the dynamic development of civilization, the themes of this year’s edition of the Congress and the 16th International Interdisciplinary Conference titled “Global Security in the Era of Cultural and Geopolitical Transformation” seem extremely important, and the issues addressed in the nine thematic conferences will allow for an in-depth exchange of views (…)—said Her Magnificence the Rector.
The conference’s regular co-organizers are: the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the City of Bydgoszcz, and the Marshal’s Office. A letter from Rafał Bruski, Mayor of Bydgoszcz, was read by Mr. Robert Kufel, Chair of the City Council’s Committee on Culture and Naming.
The aim of the Congress is to facilitate an exchange of ideas on a fundamental topic among lawyers, theologians, philosophers, cultural studies scholars, economists, educators, political scientists, sociologists, historians, media scholars, and representatives of other disciplines. This year’s edition of the Congress was attended by nearly 100 distinguished scholars—speakers from leading academic institutions in Poland and around the world, including the Law School of Tongji University (Tongji), China; Lietuvos Inzinerijos Kolegija Higher Education Institution, Kaunas, Lithuania; Alexander Dubeček University of Trenčín, Trenčín, Slovakia; Humian National University of Justice, Humian, Ukraine; Mykolas Romeris University, Vilnius, Lithuania; Palacký University Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic; University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Utena University of Applied Sciences, Utena, Lithuania; New Bulgarian University, Sofia, Bulgaria; University of Cagliari, Italy; Zaporizhzhia National Technical University, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine; Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
On the first day of this year’s Congress, a number of side events were held that drew a huge crowd. These included: First Aid workshops, an English Dictation Contest, a Knowledge Contest on English-speaking countries, and Language Games workshops—with approximately 300 people participating. Also on the first day, the International Thematic Conference “Social Security: Social Policy – Social Work. A Complex Space of Interrelationships” took place. An additional highlight was the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the academic and teaching career of Prof. Krzysztof Piątek, Ph.D.
On the second day of the Congress, the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Global Security in the Era of Cultural and Geopolitical Transformation,” as well as international thematic conferences covering the fields of the humanities, social sciences, theology, medical and health sciences, and engineering and technical sciences:
– Cultural and Religious Challenges of the Modern Age – Rev. Prof. Mariusz Kuciński, Ph.D.
– State and Law. National Security from Legal and Social Perspectives – Challenges and Threats – Dr. Marta Czakowska, Prof. Michał Czakowski, Ph.D.
The Cultural and Legal Heritage of European Nations – Prof. AKP, Dr. Tomasz Kowalczyk, Dr. Tomasz Sińczak
– Conflict, danger, security: representations in culture, language, and literature – Dr. Tomasz Kalaga
– Contemporary Challenges in Economics – Prof. AKP, Dr. Roman Sass
– Migration in a Changing World: Scope and Impact – Dr. Joanna Mstowska
– Sustainable Development in the Context of Social Inclusion and Economic Transformation – Dr. Sylwia Czakowska, Prof. AKP, Dr. Dariusz Czakowski
– Security of Facilities and Technical Infrastructure in the Context of Global Geopolitical Threats – Prof. Dr. Adam Podhorecki
The Congress adopted a hybrid format. It should be noted that, as is traditional, this year’s Congress was broadcast online in two languages. It is worth noting that previous editions of the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress have facilitated the creation of many new areas of shared understanding among individuals who have a significant influence on shaping the attitudes of future generations. Nearly four thousand participants and several hundred speakers from both domestic and international academic centers have taken part in previous conferences, including representatives from the Vatican, Italy, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Greece, Georgia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the USA, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, Hungary, China, Austria, Lithuania, Latvia, Spain, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Global Security in the Age of Cultural and Geopolitical Transformation” – plenary session – we had the opportunity to hear presentations by, among others:
• Federico Lombardi, SJ, Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Foundation, Vatican City
Security Challenges in the Modern World
• Prof. Dr. Giedrė Adomavičienė, Lietuvos Inzinerijos Kolegija Higher Education Institution, Judita Štreimikiemė, Lietuvos Inzinerijos Kolegija Higher Education Institution, Kaunas, Lithuania
Challenges and Prospects of Migrant Adaptation in Lithuania: the Case of Lietuvos Inzinerijos Kolegija HEI
• Prof. Dr. Taolue Paul Zhang, Tongji Law School, Director of the Internet and AI Law Research Center at the Law School of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
Legislation on Intelligent Vehicles – China’s Path and Reflections
• Prof. AKP, Dr. Mariusz Krzysztofek, Kujawsko-Pomorskie University, Bydgoszcz
The Right to Privacy in the Digital Age: Artificial Intelligence as a Surveillance Tool, Its Limits, and National Security
• Prof. Dr. Pavol Struhár, Alexander Dubeček University of Trenčín, Trenčín, Slovakia
Anti-System Extremism in National and Global Contexts: The Slovak Perspective
• Prof. UJD, Dr. hab. Piotr Herbowski, Jan Długosz University in Częstochowa, Częstochowa
Judicial Activism and National Security
The event served as a platform for exchanging views and experiences regarding contemporary threats and opportunities for building a safe, sustainable world in times of dynamic change. The discussions addressed topics related to international security, cultural transformation, technological development, migration, and changes in the geopolitical order. The interdisciplinary nature of the meeting allowed for a broad perspective on the complex processes shaping global reality.
The conference can be summed up by the words of Zbigniew Brzezinski, a Polish-American political scientist, diplomat, and strategist, and one of the most influential foreign policy advisors of the 20th century: “Security is not a state, but a process—it requires constant vigilance, knowledge, and cooperation.”
On October 25–26, 2024, at the headquarters of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy in Bydgoszcz, located at 55–57 Toruńska Street, we inaugurated the 14th “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. This year, the Congress is once again co-organized with the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI, the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and the City of Bydgoszcz.
The Congress was inaugurated by Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy.
“(…) I would like to sincerely thank you for your presence and for accepting the invitation to the Congress. Ladies and Gentlemen, the 15th Jubilee Congress ”One World – Many Cultures” has once again brought together a record number of over 100 speakers. (…) The JŚWK Congress is a space dedicated to broadly understood intercultural dialogue and the exchange of ideas on critical issues facing humanity. Dialogue is an indispensable means and the foundation for building lasting social bonds, and when grounded in truth, it is the only path to the coexistence of cultures and societies, as well as a dignified life for every human being. (…) In this year’s edition of the Congress, as part of the 15th international interdisciplinary conference, we will seek the truth on the topic “Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Contemporary Society (…)”
“When we speak of artificial intelligence, we realize that it is no longer some abstract construct. So what is it?” asked His Magnificence the Rector.
„(…) According to the Swiss psychologist and biologist Jean Piaget, ‘Intelligence is what you use when you don’t know what to do,’ or, to put it even more simply: 'Intelligence is the ability to solve problems.’ (…) Today, in an era of incredible technological achievements, we must ask ourselves whether, as human beings, we will be able to use the benefits of civilization rationally for the good of us all, or whether we should halt the development of artificial intelligence out of fear of self-destruction. And will that even be possible? (…) I believe the world is changing at an accelerated pace right before our eyes. That is why reflection and taking active measures will be so important, so that the new society does not lose any of its humanity. It is certainly worth sparing no effort to make the world a better place.
At the end of her speech, Her Magnificence the Rector said: “I wish all participants fruitful discussions, creative achievements, and a pleasant stay within the walls of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy in Bydgoszcz, and especially to those visiting our beautiful city for the first time, I wish you charming walks and a pleasant rest.”
The conference’s regular co-organizers are: the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the City of Bydgoszcz, and the Marshal’s Office. A letter from Rafał Bruski, Mayor of Bydgoszcz, was read by Ms. Elżbieta Rusielewicz, Vice Chair of the Bydgoszcz City Council. Speaking on behalf of the Foundation was Rev. Prof. AKP, Dr. Mariusz Kuciński. A letter from the Deputy Marshal of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, Mr. Zbigniew Ostrowski, was also read.
The aim of the Congress is to facilitate an exchange of ideas on this fundamental topic among lawyers, theologians, philosophers, cultural studies scholars, economists, educators, political scientists, sociologists, historians, media scholars, and representatives of other disciplines. This year’s edition of the Congress was attended by nearly 100 distinguished scholars—speakers from leading academic institutions in Poland and around the world, including the University of Cagliari in Sardinia, Keele University in Staffordshire, UK, the Kolping Higher Education Institution in Lithuania, the Utena Higher Education Institution – Lithuania, University of Tirana – Albania, New Bulgarian University – Bulgaria, University of Cagliari – Italy, Mykolas Romeris University – Lithuania, Zaporizhzhia Polytechnic University – Ukraine, University of Hradec Králové – Czech Republic, Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture – Ukraine, Lviv Polytechnic University – Ukraine.
On the first day of this year’s Congress, a number of side events were held that drew a huge crowd. These included: First Aid – workshops, Breast Cancer Prevention – workshops, English Dictation, A Few Words of Truth About the “Lie Detector” – a lecture, a Quiz on the Culture of English-Speaking Countries, Testing the Strength of Building Materials, Erasmus Days, a Quiz on Europe and the World, and an Exhibition of Works by Students of the Faculty of Medical Sciences.
On the second day of the Congress, the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Contemporary Society” was held, along with thematic conferences covering the humanities, social sciences, theology, medical and health sciences, and engineering and technical sciences:
– Artificial Intelligence – Development or Threat – Moderator: Rev. Prof. AKP, Dr. Mariusz Kuciński
– State and Law – Moderator: Dr. Marta Czakowska
– Cultural and Legal Heritage of European Nations – Moderators: Prof. AKP, Dr. Tomasz Kowalczyk, Dr. Tomasz Sińczak
– Artificial Intelligence in the Humanities: Perspectives and Fears – moderator: Dr. Tomasz Kalaga
– Contemporary Challenges in Economics – moderator: Prof. Roman Sass, Ph.D.
– The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Engineering and Technical Sciences – Moderator: Prof. AKP, Dr. Eng. Jan Owedyk
– Multiculturalism in Medical Sciences – Patient Care – Moderator: Dr. Elżbieta Bernaciak
The Congress took a hybrid format. It should be noted that this year’s Congress was streamed online in two languages. It is worth noting that previous editions of the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress have helped foster many new areas of shared understanding among individuals who have a significant influence on shaping the attitudes of future generations. Nearly three and a half thousand participants and several hundred speakers from both domestic and international academic institutions have taken part in previous conferences, including representatives from the Vatican, Italy, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Greece, Georgia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, Hungary, China, Austria, Lithuania, Latvia, Spain, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Contemporary Society,” we had the opportunity to hear presentations by, among others:
• Federico Lombardi, SJ, Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Foundation, Vatican City
Artificial Intelligence – Contemporary Perspectives
• Prof. Paweł Fajgielski, PhD, Catholic University of Lublin, Lublin
Artificial Intelligence and Personal Data Protection
• Prof. Daniele Amoroso, University of Cagliari, Sardinia
The Military Use of AI: an International Law Perspective
• Dr. Marta Wołoszynowska-Fraser, Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Science and Medical Higher Education
• Prof. Daiva Berzinskiene-Juozainiene, Ph.D., Kolping Higher Education Institution, Lithuania; Dr. Ruta Meiste, Utena Higher Education Institution, Lithuania
Transforming management practices: AI-driven approaches to decision-making
On October 26, 2024, Erasmus+ Day was held on campus as part of the accompanying events.
On October 25–26, 2024, at the headquarters of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy in Bydgoszcz, located at 55–57 Toruńska Street, we inaugurated the 14th “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. This year, the Congress is once again co-organized with the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI, the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and the City of Bydgoszcz.
The Congress was inaugurated by Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy.
“(…) I would like to sincerely thank you for your presence and for accepting the invitation to the Congress. Ladies and Gentlemen, the 15th Jubilee Congress ”One World – Many Cultures” has once again brought together a record number of over 100 speakers. (…) The JŚWK Congress is a space dedicated to broadly understood intercultural dialogue and the exchange of ideas on critical issues facing humanity. Dialogue is an indispensable means and the foundation for building lasting social bonds, and when grounded in truth, it is the only path to the coexistence of cultures and societies, as well as a dignified life for every human being. (…) In this year’s edition of the Congress, as part of the 15th international interdisciplinary conference, we will seek the truth on the topic “Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Contemporary Society (…)”
“When we speak of artificial intelligence, we realize that it is no longer some abstract construct. So what is it?” asked His Magnificence the Rector.
„(…) According to the Swiss psychologist and biologist Jean Piaget, ‘Intelligence is what you use when you don’t know what to do,’ or, to put it even more simply: 'Intelligence is the ability to solve problems.’ (…) Today, in an era of incredible technological achievements, we must ask ourselves whether, as human beings, we will be able to use the benefits of civilization rationally for the good of us all, or whether we should halt the development of artificial intelligence out of fear of self-destruction. And will that even be possible? (…) I believe the world is changing at an accelerated pace right before our eyes. That is why reflection and taking active measures will be so important, so that the new society does not lose any of its humanity. It is certainly worth sparing no effort to make the world a better place.
At the end of her speech, Her Magnificence the Rector said: “I wish all participants fruitful discussions, creative achievements, and a pleasant stay within the walls of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy in Bydgoszcz, and especially to those visiting our beautiful city for the first time, I wish you charming walks and a pleasant rest.”
The conference’s regular co-organizers are: the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the City of Bydgoszcz, and the Marshal’s Office. A letter from Rafał Bruski, Mayor of Bydgoszcz, was read by Ms. Elżbieta Rusielewicz, Vice Chair of the Bydgoszcz City Council. Speaking on behalf of the Foundation was Rev. Prof. AKP, Dr. Mariusz Kuciński. A letter from the Deputy Marshal of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, Mr. Zbigniew Ostrowski, was also read.
The aim of the Congress is to facilitate an exchange of ideas on this fundamental topic among lawyers, theologians, philosophers, cultural studies scholars, economists, educators, political scientists, sociologists, historians, media scholars, and representatives of other disciplines. This year’s edition of the Congress was attended by nearly 100 distinguished scholars—speakers from leading academic institutions in Poland and around the world, including the University of Cagliari in Sardinia, Keele University in Staffordshire, UK, the Kolping Higher Education Institution in Lithuania, the Utena Higher Education Institution – Lithuania, University of Tirana – Albania, New Bulgarian University – Bulgaria, University of Cagliari – Italy, Mykolas Romeris University – Lithuania, Zaporizhzhia Polytechnic University – Ukraine, University of Hradec Králové – Czech Republic, Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture – Ukraine, Lviv Polytechnic University – Ukraine.
On the first day of this year’s Congress, a number of side events were held that drew a huge crowd. These included: First Aid – workshops, Breast Cancer Prevention – workshops, English Dictation, A Few Words of Truth About the “Lie Detector” – a lecture, a Quiz on the Culture of English-Speaking Countries, Testing the Strength of Building Materials, Erasmus Days, a Quiz on Europe and the World, and an Exhibition of Works by Students of the Faculty of Medical Sciences.
On the second day of the Congress, the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Contemporary Society” was held, along with thematic conferences covering the humanities, social sciences, theology, medical and health sciences, and engineering and technical sciences:
– Artificial Intelligence – Development or Threat – Moderator: Rev. Prof. AKP, Dr. Mariusz Kuciński
– State and Law – Moderator: Dr. Marta Czakowska
– Cultural and Legal Heritage of European Nations – Moderators: Prof. AKP, Dr. Tomasz Kowalczyk, Dr. Tomasz Sińczak
– Artificial Intelligence in the Humanities: Perspectives and Fears – moderator: Dr. Tomasz Kalaga
– Contemporary Challenges in Economics – moderator: Prof. Roman Sass, Ph.D.
– The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Engineering and Technical Sciences – Moderator: Prof. AKP, Dr. Eng. Jan Owedyk
– Multiculturalism in Medical Sciences – Patient Care – Moderator: Dr. Elżbieta Bernaciak
The Congress took a hybrid format. It should be noted that this year’s Congress was streamed online in two languages. It is worth noting that previous editions of the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress have helped foster many new areas of shared understanding among individuals who have a significant influence on shaping the attitudes of future generations. Nearly three and a half thousand participants and several hundred speakers from both domestic and international academic institutions have taken part in previous conferences, including representatives from the Vatican, Italy, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Greece, Georgia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, Hungary, China, Austria, Lithuania, Latvia, Spain, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Artificial Intelligence as a Challenge for Contemporary Society,” we had the opportunity to hear presentations by, among others:
• Federico Lombardi, SJ, Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Foundation, Vatican City
Artificial Intelligence – Contemporary Perspectives
• Prof. Paweł Fajgielski, PhD, Catholic University of Lublin, Lublin
Artificial Intelligence and Personal Data Protection
• Prof. Daniele Amoroso, University of Cagliari, Sardinia
The Military Use of AI: an International Law Perspective
• Dr. Marta Wołoszynowska-Fraser, Keele University, Staffordshire, United Kingdom
Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Science and Medical Higher Education
• Prof. Daiva Berzinskiene-Juozainiene, Ph.D., Kolping Higher Education Institution, Lithuania; Dr. Ruta Meiste, Utena Higher Education Institution, Lithuania
Transforming management practices: AI-driven approaches to decision-making
On October 26, 2024, Erasmus+ Day was held on campus as part of the accompanying events.
On October 27–28, 2023, at the headquarters of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy in Bydgoszcz, located at 55–57 Toruńska Street, we inaugurated the 14th “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. This year, the Congress is once again co-organized with the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and the City of Bydgoszcz.
The Congress was opened by Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy: „Today we are inaugurating the 14th edition of the ‘One World – Many Cultures’ Congress, which will feature an International Interdisciplinary Conference titled ‘Cultural Transformations: A Challenge for the Modern World’ and seven thematic conferences. (…) For years, alongside our University, the regular co-organizers of the conference have been: the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the City of Bydgoszcz, and the Marshal’s Office. This year, the honorary patronage of the Congress was once again assumed by the Minister of Education and Science, Prof. Przemysław Czarnek, Ph.D., the Mayor of Bydgoszcz, Rafał Bruski, and the Marshal of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, Piotr Całbecki. I would like to extend special thanks to Father Federico Lombardi, President of the Joseph Ratzinger–Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, who, together with the Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy, serves as Honorary President of the Congress.
(…) The theme of this year’s Congress is “Cultural Changes as a Challenge for the Modern World.” The goal of our academic meetings is broadly understood intercultural dialogue and the exchange of ideas addressing the significant problems of the modern world, where, based on the process of cognition, we wish to seek the truth through joint effort, understand reality and the essence of our existence, and build a future for future generations.
(…) Saint John Paul II left behind many statements regarding culture. At UNESCO in 1980, he said: “Culture is the proper way of human existence and life. (…) Culture is what makes a person, as a person, more fully human: more fully ‘be’.” Culture is a goal, a consciousness, and the action of a person as a free and rational being, undertaking actions for the good of people and the world around them” (…).
Wishing the AKP conference fruitful deliberations, Dr. Helena Czakowska, Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Academy, stated: (…) I would like to sincerely thank you for your presence, for your interest, and—through the papers you have presented and listened to—for joining in a common effort to seek the truth, which is the foundation of dialogue and the peaceful coexistence of societies. In the words of St. John Paul II, spoken during his Message for the World Day of Peace in 1983 at the Vatican: “The fundamental premise of dialogue is the search for what is true, good, and just for every human being, for every group, and for every community—both for the part of it to which one belongs and for that which appears as an adversary.”
Mr. Rafał Bruski, Mayor of Bydgoszcz—as a co-organizer of the Congress—attended in person and extended his best wishes to the participants for successful and fruitful deliberations, hoping they would lay the foundation for effective dialogue.
The aim of the Congress is to facilitate an exchange of ideas on this fundamental topic among lawyers, theologians, philosophers, cultural studies scholars, economists, educators, political scientists, sociologists, historians, media scholars, and representatives of other disciplines. This year’s edition of the Congress was attended by nearly 80 distinguished scholars and speakers from leading academic institutions in Poland and around the world, including Alexander Dubček University of Trenčín in Slovakia, New Bulgarian University, Dnipro National University in Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia National University in Ukraine, and the National University of Horticulture in Kharkiv, Ukraine.
On the first day of this year’s Congress, a number of side events took place that drew a huge crowd of Bydgoszcz residents:
– A meet-and-greet with Prof. Wojciech Jasiakiewicz to promote the book “There Was Nothing There and They Died in Great Numbers: The Deportation of Poles to Northern Kazakhstan (Tajynsha) 1936–1938.” The publication deals with the situation of Poles exiled by the Soviet authorities to Kazakhstan in the second half of the 1930s. The archival materials and documents included in the book lend credibility to the events described, but above all, they help preserve the memory of those difficult times –
– Creative workshop: “Look deep into the fabric of a building and find out if it’s alive” – a session with faculty members from the Faculty of Engineering and Technical Sciences
– First aid—classes with faculty members from the Faculty of Medical Sciences
– Medical workshops—classes with faculty members from the Faculty of Medical Sciences
On the second day of the Congress, the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Cultural Transformations: A Challenge for the Modern World” was held, along with thematic conferences covering the humanities, social sciences, theology, medical and health sciences, and engineering and technical sciences:
– The Anthropological Vision of Man and the World of Values – moderator: Rev. Prof. Mariusz Kuciński, Ph.D.
– State and Law – moderator: Dr. Marta Czakowska
– Cultural Threats: Causes, Effects, and Countermeasures – moderator: Prof. Igor Zgoliński, Ph.D.
– The cultural and legal heritage of Christianity in Europe – moderator: Prof. AKP, Dr. Joanna Taczkowska-Olszewska
– Contemporary challenges in economics – moderator: Prof. AKP, Dr. Roman Sass
– Currents of transition and glimpses of permanence: representations of change in culture, literature, and language – moderator: Dr. Tomasz Kalaga
– Technological civilization – challenges and threats – moderator: Dr. Jan Owedyk, Eng.
The Congress took a hybrid format. It should be noted that this year’s Congress was streamed online in two languages. It is worth noting that previous editions of the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress have helped foster many new areas of shared understanding among individuals who have a significant influence on shaping the attitudes of future generations. Nearly three thousand participants and several hundred speakers from both domestic and international academic institutions have taken part in previous conferences, including representatives from the Vatican, Italy, Russia, Greece, Georgia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, Hungary, China, Austria, Lithuania, Latvia, Spain, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
During the International Interdisciplinary Scientific Conference “Cultural Transformations: A Challenge for the Modern World,” we had the opportunity to hear presentations by, among others:
• Federico Lombardi, SJ, Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, Vatican City
Cultural Transformations: A Challenge for the Modern World
• Prof. Grzegorz Kucharczyk, Ph.D., Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań
The Struggle for a Community of Truth: The Crisis and Rebirth of European Culture
• Prof. Waldemar Gontarski, Ph.D., European University of Law and Administration (EWSPiA), Warsaw
National Identity as a Constitutional Value in the European Union
• Dr. Pavol Struhár, Alexander Dubček University of Trenčín, Trenčín
The changing culture of football fans – the case of Slovakia
• Julian Golak, Marshal’s Office of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Wrocław
Europe “Let’s Be a Family” (1990–2023), as a proposal for peaceful cooperation in Europe. Extending the “Let’s Be a Family” idea to residents of other countries
On October 28, 2023, Erasmus+ Day was held on campus as part of the accompanying events.
On October 22, 2022, at the headquarters of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz, located at 55-57 Toruńska Street, we inaugurated the thirteenth “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. Her Magnificence Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University, extended a particularly warm welcome in her opening address to Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, who participated in the Congress remotely. “The Cardinal’s presence today is particularly important to us and to our University. Our University’s publishing house has prepared a Polish translation of the Cardinal’s book *Credere nello sport*—*Believe in Sport*. As Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone wrote in the introduction, “I hope that this book will be read with pleasure and that it will also inspire a renewed commitment to sport as an excellent educational tool, in keeping with the tradition of the Church and the thoughts of the most eminent humanists of the past and present.” “Ladies and gentlemen, I do not merely hope this; I am certain of it. However, the author himself will speak more about the publication,” said Her Magnificence the Rector.
A letter from Przemysław Czarnek, Minister of Education and Science, addressed to the Congress participants was read aloud at the Congress. It should be noted that the Ministry of Education and Science served as the honorary patron of this year’s edition of the Congress. “(…) I would like to thank the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz, the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, as well as representatives of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province and the city of Bydgoszcz—for their organizational efforts in preparing this conference. I firmly believe that the discussions among these distinguished authorities, recognized in their respective fields, have the potential to evolve into a true forum for the exchange of ideas (…)”.
Speaking on behalf of Piotr Całbecki, Marshal of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Province, was Mr. Grzegorz Borek—the Provincial Executive Board’s representative for International Cooperation.
Due to prior commitments, Rafał Bruski, Mayor of Bydgoszcz, was unable to attend today’s Congress in person; however, he sent his best wishes to all participants for a successful and fruitful session, hoping it would lay the groundwork for effective action in support of a Europe of values.
Speaking on behalf of Father Federico Lombardi, President of the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI, was Rev. Prof. Mariusz Kuciński, Ph.D., Director of the Ratzinger Studies Center.
As the Congress is an academic event, it was an excellent opportunity to honor the academic faculty of our University who, during the past academic year, made a special contribution to achieving a B+ rating in the legal sciences and a B rating in the discipline of culture and religion in the institutional evaluation. KPSW has thus obtained the status of an academic institution and has been granted the authority to confer doctoral and postdoctoral degrees in the discipline of legal sciences.
On October 23, 2021, at the headquarters of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz, located at 55-57 Toruńska Street, we inaugurated the twelfth “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. This year, the Congress is once again co-organized with the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI, the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and the City of Bydgoszcz. The Congress was inaugurated by Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., Rector of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz: “The ‘One World – Many Cultures’ Congress is a space that fosters intellectual traditions, broadens intellectual horizons, and shapes the attitudes of future generations. In these annual conference discussions, representatives from the worlds of science, the church, culture, and politics jointly seek answers to the contemporary problems of the world around us. Our international academic initiative addresses fundamental aspects of human existence and showcases the multicultural heritage of nations.”
Speaking on behalf of the co-organizers was Zbigniew Ostrowski, Deputy Marshal of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and a letter from the Mayor of Bydgoszcz was read by Magdalena Buschmann, Director of the Department of Education and Sports. This year’s edition of the Congress will feature many distinguished scholars from leading academic institutions in Poland and around the world, including the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome and Jan Komenský University in Prague. During the Congress, the assembled speakers, guests, and students had the opportunity to view the prepared exhibitions:
• “Great Poles in Culture” – an exhibition organized by the Regional Center for International Debate in Toruń, dedicated to the technical achievements of Polish scholars and scientists who left their mark on science and technology in past centuries; on view on the third floor of Building A through October 29, 2021,
• “Polish Scientists to the World” – on view on the first floor of Building A through November 10, 2021,
• “Graphics, Drawing” – an exhibition of works by Leon Wyczółkowski, on view on the first floor of Building A until November 10, 2021,
• “Poles in South America.”
Over the past two days, a broad-ranging intercultural dialogue took place at the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz. Guests from Poland and abroad gathered to exchange ideas on the significant challenges facing the modern world. We would like to thank everyone who visited KPSW during this time and participated in the numerous academic conferences and exhibitions.
On October 23–24, 2020, the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz hosted the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress. Due to the current pandemic situation, the event was held remotely. University officials, invited guests, speakers, and interested participants joined the individual panels using online technologies.
The history of the Congress dates back to 2010, when a series of annual international conferences was launched, aimed at broadly understood intercultural dialogue and the exchange of ideas on significant issues facing the modern world. Previous editions of the Congress have attracted considerable interest—over 3,000 participants have taken part in past editions. Among the guests were representatives of the humanities, social sciences, medical sciences, technical sciences, and natural sciences, representing domestic and international research centers.
The aim of the Congress is to facilitate an exchange of ideas on this fundamental topic among lawyers, theologians, philosophers, cultural studies scholars, economists, educators, political scientists, sociologists, historians, media scholars, and representatives of other disciplines.
In 2020, the 11th International Interdisciplinary Conference “The Impact of the Pandemic on Socio-Economic Development and Culture” was held, featuring thematic panels on: Threats or Opportunities for Religion and Culture in Times of Pandemic, Multiculturalism as an Educational Challenge, The State and the Law, and The Coronavirus and the National Economy, “Humankind and Technological Achievements,” as well as the 2nd Kuyavian-Pomeranian Forum on Science and Innovation, during the first part of which Dr. Dariusz Kuberski from the Kuyavian-Pomeranian University in Bydgoszcz delivered a lecture titled “Science and Technology in the Service of Humanity: The Case of Industrial Property Rights,” and the discussion was attended by entrepreneurs from Kujawy and Pomerania. The second part of the Forum was devoted to the topic of civilizational diseases—both infectious and non-infectious.
Accompanying events could not be held with the direct participation of interested parties on the University campus; however, the special exhibitions prepared for the occasion are being presented online, including on the website www.kpsw.edu.pl
This year, in collaboration with the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, we are hosting an exhibition titled “On the Wings of Love,” which features photographs capturing the atmosphere of encounters with three popes (John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis) in various corners of the world and under diverse circumstances. The photographs for this exhibition were selected by young people from around the world. In cooperation with the Regional Center for International Debate in Toruń, we are also presenting an exhibition titled “Our Silence Is Our Shame,” which consists of eight roll-up banners containing key information about religious and ethnic groups that are being persecuted.
The event is co-organized by: the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the Marshal’s Office of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and the City of Bydgoszcz.
The congress was co-financed by the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province.
The forum consisted of two parts: Part I – “Threats to Innovation in the Era of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic,” and Part II – “Lifestyle Diseases – Infectious and Non-infectious.”
On October 25, 2019, the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Forum for Science and Innovation launched the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress for the first time, an event that has been held annually for the past ten years. The aim of the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress is to create shared spaces for dialogue where new intellectual horizons, intellectual traditions, and attitudes and values for future generations are fostered.
In the reality surrounding us, building lasting social bonds is one of the foundations of social dialogue based on truth. As an international initiative, the Congress strives each year to address fundamental aspects of human existence; science and innovation are issues that are deeply embedded in human life. The exchange of scientific views and the broadly understood discourse on innovation planned for today’s Kujawsko-Pomorskie Forum of Science and Innovation marks the beginning of new ideas upon which success will be built.
– The dynamic changes taking place in today’s world mean that all innovations are based on knowledge, science, and research. These are among the fundamental factors shaping the modern economy. All innovations focus on numerous combinations of factors aimed at creating new products and solutions. Science is the driving force behind innovation, promoting modern solutions and people with unconventional thinking. It is thanks to them that doors open to the creation and emergence of new opportunities in many areas of life related to the existence of each of us. – began Her Magnificence Rector Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University, as she officially opened the Forum.
During the Forum’s inauguration at the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz, we welcomed, among others, His Excellency Bishop Jan Tyrawa, Ms. Iwona Kozłowska, Director of the Department of Cooperation with the Polish Diaspora and Poles Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Dorota Byszewska-Miłosińska, Counselor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Małgorzata Oborska, Deputy Superintendent of the Board of Education in Bydgoszcz, Ms. Maria Fuzowska-Wójcik, Director of the Department of Patent Literature Collections at the Patent Office of the Republic of Poland, Dr. Jan Wiśniewski, Director of the Regional Center for International Debate in Toruń, and representatives of entrepreneurs and business support institutions participating in our Forum.
The Rector presented medals from the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz to the institutions that supported the organization of the event:
– Ms. Edyta Demby-Siwek, President of the Patent Office of the Republic of Poland, on whose behalf the medal was accepted by Ms. Maria Fuzowska-Wójcik.
– Prof. Jacek Czaputowicz, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland; Ms. Iwona Kozłowska accepted the medal on behalf of the Minister. The Director of the Department for Cooperation with the Polish Diaspora and Poles Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also received thanks for her assistance in organizing the exhibition accompanying the Congress, “Famous Poles Unknown to the World.”
– Dr. Jan Wiśniewski, Director of the Regional Center for International Debate in Toruń.
The scientific part of the Forum consisted of three discussion panels featuring representatives of companies exhibiting at the Forum and representatives of the scientific community: Science and Intellectual Property in Your Company, Science and the Economy—Opportunities and Threats for Cooperation, and the Offer of Kuyavian-Pomeranian Business Support Institutions to Enterprises.
On October 25, 2019, the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Forum for Science and Innovation launched the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress for the first time, an event that has been held annually for the past ten years. The aim of the “One World – Many Cultures” Congress is to create shared spaces for dialogue where new intellectual horizons, intellectual traditions, and attitudes and values for future generations are fostered.
In the reality surrounding us, building lasting social bonds is one of the foundations of social dialogue based on truth. As an international initiative, the Congress strives each year to address fundamental aspects of human existence; science and innovation are issues that are deeply embedded in human life. The exchange of scientific views and the broadly understood discourse on innovation planned for today’s Kujawsko-Pomorskie Forum of Science and Innovation marks the beginning of new ideas upon which success will be built.
– The dynamic changes taking place in today’s world mean that all innovations are based on knowledge, science, and research. These are among the fundamental factors shaping the modern economy. All innovations focus on numerous combinations of factors aimed at creating new products and solutions. Science is the driving force behind innovation, promoting modern solutions and people with unconventional thinking. It is thanks to them that doors open to the creation and emergence of new opportunities in many areas of life related to the existence of each of us. – began Her Magnificence Rector Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University, as she officially opened the Forum.
During the Forum’s inauguration at the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz, we welcomed, among others, His Excellency Bishop Jan Tyrawa, Ms. Iwona Kozłowska, Director of the Department of Cooperation with the Polish Diaspora and Poles Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Dorota Byszewska-Miłosińska, Counselor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Małgorzata Oborska, Deputy Superintendent of the Board of Education in Bydgoszcz, Ms. Maria Fuzowska-Wójcik, Director of the Department of Patent Literature Collections at the Patent Office of the Republic of Poland, Dr. Jan Wiśniewski, Director of the Regional Center for International Debate in Toruń, and representatives of entrepreneurs and business support institutions participating in our Forum.
The Rector presented medals from the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz to the institutions that supported the organization of the event:
– Ms. Edyta Demby-Siwek, President of the Patent Office of the Republic of Poland, on whose behalf the medal was accepted by Ms. Maria Fuzowska-Wójcik.
– Prof. Jacek Czaputowicz, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland; Ms. Iwona Kozłowska accepted the medal on behalf of the Minister. The Director of the Department for Cooperation with the Polish Diaspora and Poles Abroad at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also received thanks for her assistance in organizing the exhibition accompanying the Congress, “Famous Poles Unknown to the World.”
– Dr. Jan Wiśniewski, Director of the Regional Center for International Debate in Toruń.
The scientific part of the Forum consisted of three discussion panels featuring representatives of companies exhibiting at the Forum and representatives of the scientific community: Science and Intellectual Property in Your Company, Science and the Economy—Opportunities and Threats for Cooperation, and the Offer of Kuyavian-Pomeranian Business Support Institutions to Enterprises.
On October 26, 2019, the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University in Bydgoszcz hosted an International Interdisciplinary Conference as part of the 10th Congress “One World – Many Cultures.”
The history of the Congress and the conferences held as part of it dates back to 2010, when a series of annual meetings was initiated with the aim of highlighting international aspects and opportunities for dialogue across both interdisciplinary and international spheres.
This initiative, which has become a permanent fixture on our region’s academic calendar, is the result of many years of cooperation with the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI, the Marshal’s Office, and the City of Bydgoszcz. The event was held under the honorary patronage of: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, Piotr Całbecki, Marshal of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Province, and Rafał Bruski, Mayor of Bydgoszcz.
The theme of this year’s congress was “Man and Science in the Modern World.”
– One World – Many Cultures: The pervasive nature of multiculturalism is one of the defining characteristics of contemporary society. It is essential to continually expand one’s skills and knowledge in the broad field of multiculturalism in order to better understand the world in which it exists. The “One World – Many Cultures” Congress is an event of a cross-cultural nature. As a result, certain intellectual traditions have been established, and the need to seek truth and areas of dialogue—which are so essential to humanity in the modern world—has intensified. “Each Congress is another gathering of ideas and reflections from representatives of the worlds of science, the church, culture, and politics, who address the fundamental aspects of human existence,” began Her Magnificence Rector Prof. Helena Czakowska, Ph.D., of the KPSW.
During the International Interdisciplinary Conference “Man and Science in the Modern World,” we had the opportunity to hear a lecture by Prof. Piotr Rogala, M.D., Ph.D., from the Medical University, titled „Listening to the Voices of Nature… traces of science and innovation in the natural world,“ and a lecture by Prof. Marcin Łukaszewicz, Ph.D., Eng., from the University of Wrocław on ”Biotechnology in the Service of Humanity – Contemporary Development Dilemmas.” In the first part, Prof. Wojciech Polak, Ph.D., from Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń also delivered a presentation on “Current Polish-German Relations.” After the break, the following speakers participated in the plenary session: Prof. Czesław Kłak, Ph.D., from the Kujawsko-Pomorskie School of Higher Education, with a lecture titled “Deprivation of Liberty in Light of the Polish Constitution,” Prof. Ewa Polak, Ph.D., from the Kujawsko-Pomorskie University of Applied Sciences in Bydgoszcz, on “Economic and non-economic measures of quality of life: a case study of selected countries,” and Dr. Paweł Wiśniewski, Ph.D., from the Warsaw University of Technology, discussing “The role of materials engineering in the modern world.”
As part of six thematic national conferences: Faith and Reason as Sources for Discovering the Truth About Humanity, The State and the Law, Polish Criminal Law in Light of the Principles of the Polish Constitution, Contemporary Economic Challenges, The Child in the Modern World, and Man (and) Machine. Technical Sciences in the Service of Humanity, lectures were delivered by, among others: Dr. Jan Kulesza from the University of Łódź, Prof. Krzysztof Wiak, Ph.D., from the Catholic University of Lublin, Prof. Leszek Bosek, Ph.D., from the University of Warsaw, Prof. PhD Teodora Rizova from New Bulgarian University in Sofia, Bulgaria; Prof. PhD Olha Nesterova from Dnipro University of Technology in Ukraine; Prof. PhD Maksym Omelianenko and Prof. PhD Maryna Omelianenko from the International University of Kyiv in Ukraine; and Jan Świerkowski representing the Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Portugal and the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.