University of Silesia in Katowice

Ombudsperson as a mediator

Student and PhD Student Ombudsperson can: 

1. at the student’s or PhD student’s request, conduct mediation between the student and the academic employee, 
2. and conduct mediation in the event of a dispute between students and/or a dispute between PhD students.

Mediation is a dispute resolution method that assumes the consent of all parties to its initiation: mediation participants have an impact on its initiation, its course and its outcome.

If you need mediation, write about it in an e-mail to Student and PhD Student Ombudsperson. If mediation proves impossible, the Ombudsperson will analyse the case and, if possible, will show you other ways to solve your problem.

During the mediation process various options for resolving the dispute are discussed. The mediation process itself can also help the parties to look at previous, negative experiences in a different way – because mediation allows both parties to see each other’s needs and interests. It is an invitation to a substantive conversation to neutralise the problem.

When can mediation be helpful?

1. When the parties are interested in further cooperation following the dispute or they will still function in one space;
2. When the conflict is in its early stages and the parties have not yet taken significant steps to pursue their opposing interests;
3. When parties want their perspective to be understood. When parties expect change in attitudes and behaviours;
4. When there are no hard tools to use. Sometimes it concerns the lack of effective legal tools;
5. When intercultural and ideological issues play an important role in the dispute.

Purpose of mediation

The purpose of mediation is not to make a decision or determine who is right in a dispute. The aim is to develop a binding solution, acceptable to both parties, which will stabilise the current situation and allow to continue to function within the University community.