The beginning of October at the Doctoral School of the University of Silesia was marked by meetings, conversations, and the shared beginning of a new stage in academic life. On 1 October 2026, we officially opened the new academic year, welcoming another generation of doctoral researchers to our community.
The first day was an opportunity not only to celebrate the beginning of the academic year, but also to meet the Doctoral School team, learn about the key principles of doctoral education, and explore the opportunities available to those embarking on their research journey. During the orientation meeting, we discussed such topics as the role of the supervisor, the doctoral education programme, course planning, support systems for doctoral researchers, as well as doctoral scholarships, insurance, and opportunities for research funding.
Another important topic was professional practice and teaching activities. There was also time for questions and discussion with our new doctoral researchers – an opportunity to clarify any doubts, exchange first impressions, and make connections that we hope will accompany them throughout their doctoral journey.
The highlight of the day was the official Inauguration of the 2026/2027 Academic Year, held at spinPLACE at 5 Bankowa Street in Katowice. The event was attended by representatives of the University of Silesia and the Doctoral School, including Vice-Rector for Research prof. Agnieszka Turska-Kawa and Dean of the Doctoral School prof. Alina Świeściak-Fast.
A particularly solemn moment was the matriculation ceremony for doctoral researchers beginning their education at the Doctoral School in the 2026/2027 academic year, conducted by prof. Michał Baczyński. It marked the symbolic beginning of a new stage – one filled with questions, exploration, discovery, and scientific challenges.
The inaugural lecture, entitled „Inżynieria AI: Geneza, różnorodność metod i wyzwanie Wyjaśnialnej Sztucznej Inteligencji (XAI)”, was delivered by dr hab. Agnieszka Nowak-Brzezińska, prof. UŚ, introducing participants to one of the dynamically developing areas of contemporary science.
The inauguration, however, was only the beginning. On 2 October, we continued the orientation programme, focusing on further important aspects of doctoral education at the Doctoral School. Working in smaller groups, we discussed individual research plans, grants, and evaluation. rchers’ Council, an important part of the academic community and a space for joint action on behalf of doctoral researchers.
The first two days of the new academic year were therefore an intensive but above all inspiring time of getting to know one another, exchanging experiences, and building a community. We are delighted to have begun this new year together and hope that it will be a time of growth, bold questions, fascinating research, and many academic achievements for our doctoral researchers.
Welcome to the Doctoral School of the University of Silesia, and we wish you a successful and inspiring 2026/2027 academic year!