INAUGURATION OF THE 2025/2026 ACADEMIC YEAR

On October 8, 2025, the ceremonial 25th Inauguration of the Academic Year 2025/2026 took place in the historic Aula Leopoldina. The ceremony, attended by numerous guests from Poland and abroad, was officially opened by the Rector, Dr. Marcin Pawęska, Professor of the International University of Logistics and Transport in Wrocław (IULT), who warmly welcomed all attendees, especially the students beginning their studies at the University.

During his inaugural speech, the Rector summarized the previous academic year – rich in awards, new projects, innovations and distinctions. He also emphasized the contributions of individuals, institutions and enterprises whose collaboration enables continuous improvement of the teaching process at our University.

On the occasion of the University’s 25th anniversary, Rector Dr. Marcin Pawęska, Prof. IULT, received a commemorative medal from the University of Žilina. The distinction was presented by the Vice-Rector for International Cooperation and Marketing, Prof. Dr. Eng. Jozef Ristvej. It was a fitting tribute to the long-standing and fruitful cooperation between the two universities.

During the inauguration, first-year students took the ceremonial oath. The President of the IULT, Janusz Pawęska, presented the President’s Scholarship for the best academic results in the 2024/2025 academic year, which was awarded to Julia Binkiewicz. The Rector’s Award for the Best Master’s Thesis was presented to alumna M.A. Aleksandra Starecka.

Representing the student community, Anna Drąg delivered a speech warmly welcoming all participants and congratulating first-year students on their choice of university.

The highlight of the ceremony was the inaugural lecture titled “The Future of Autonomous Transport in Poland”, delivered by Prof. Dr. Eng. Marcin Ślęzak, Director of the Motor Transport Institute.

Following the lecture, a cooperation agreement was ceremonially signed between the International University of Logistics and Transport in Wrocław, represented by Rector Dr. Marcin Pawęska, Prof. IULT, and the Caribbean Maritime University in Kingston, Jamaica, represented by the University’s President, Prof. Andrew Spencer.

During the inauguration, diplomas were also presented to graduates of the IULT, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Among them was Dr. Dariusz Wyspiański, who received his doctoral degree in the discipline of Management and Quality Sciences.

As part of the jubilee inauguration, the University introduced the “Logistyk” – a Logistics Dwarf, serving as a new symbol of the academic community. The dwarf will soon appear on the Wrocław Dwarf Trail, joining one of the city’s most beloved tourist attractions.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a film about the University, highlighting key events and achievements from its rich history – a story of growth, development and success that has shaped the institution.

The final and most emotional moment of the celebration was the presentation of a statuette to the University’s Founder, President Janusz Pawęska, in recognition of his vision and courage – a gesture of deep respect and gratitude for laying the foundation upon which our academic community continues to thrive.