Olkusz Returns to the Academic Rhythm. WSB University Begins a New Academic Year

For the fifteenth time, the academic community of WSB University in Olkusz came together to ceremonially begin a new academic year. On 17 October 2026, students, lecturers, University staff, representatives of local government and academia, and invited guests gathered at the Municipal Cultural Centre in Olkusz.

The milestone 15th inauguration provided an opportunity to emphasise the importance of WSB University in the development of higher education in the region and the University’s cooperation with the local community. The programme included the formal matriculation of first-year students, the presentation of scholarships and distinctions, and an inaugural lecture by Professor Joanna Kurowska-Pysz entitled “An Alliance of Two Intelligences – Why It Is Worth Collaborating with Algorithms”.

Formal Opening of the Academic Year
The new academic year was officially opened by Professor Katarzyna Szczepańska-Woszczyna – Vice-Rector for Research and Education at WSB University, who welcomed the assembled guests and emphasised the importance of developing higher education and the University’s cooperation with the social and economic community.

Olkusz holds a special place on the map of WSB University. It is here that, for years, the University has been developing cooperation with representatives of local government, business, and local institutions, connecting university education with the needs of residents and the regional labour market.

Roman Piaśnik – Mayor of the Town and Municipality of Olkusz also addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of the academic community’s presence in the life of the town.

Matriculation and Scholarships for Outstanding Students
One of the most important moments of the inauguration was the solemn oath-taking and matriculation of first-year students. The new members of the academic community officially began their journey of education and academic development at WSB University.

Academic scholarships awarded through WSB University’s Professor Henryk Walica Academic Scholarship Fund were also presented during the ceremony. These distinctions are awarded to talented secondary school graduates who, with the University’s support, can develop their academic interests, acquire new competencies, and pursue individual development pathways.

Rector’s Distinctions for Achievements and Commitment
An important part of the ceremony was honouring individuals particularly committed to the activities and development of WSB University. The Rector’s Distinctions were awarded for academic and research achievements, teaching activities, and contributions to the University’s development and the building of its brand. This provided an opportunity to recognise the work and commitment of those who help shape the academic community and contribute to strengthening WSB University’s research and educational potential.

“An Alliance of Two Intelligences” – the Inaugural Lecture
Should artificial intelligence be viewed as a competitor to humans, or rather as a partner supporting their capabilities? How can we collaborate effectively with algorithms, drawing on the potential of both human and artificial intelligence?

These questions were addressed in the inaugural lecture by Professor Joanna Kurowska-Pysz – Director of WSB University’s Technology Transfer Centre and an expert for the European Commission and the OECD – entitled “An Alliance of Two Intelligences – Why It Is Worth Collaborating with Algorithms”.

The lecture provided a starting point for reflection on the role of new technologies in education, research, and professional life, and on the importance of the ability of humans to collaborate with artificial intelligence.

The 15th Inauguration – Another Stage in the Development of WSB University in Olkusz
The fifteenth inauguration of the academic year symbolically highlighted WSB University’s presence in Olkusz and its role in creating opportunities for education and professional development for the region’s residents.

Cooperation with local government, entrepreneurs, and public institutions remains an important element of the University’s activities, enabling academic knowledge to be connected with practice and the needs of the contemporary labour market.

Another year of acquiring knowledge, developing competencies, and pursuing academic and professional aspirations lies ahead for students, lecturers, and staff.

We wish all members of the academic community an inspiring 2026/2027 academic year, full of new opportunities, valuable experiences, and success!