Chronicle of International Cooperation
Welcome to the Chronicle of International Cooperation Office
We are pleased to be able to share with you the history and achievements of the International Cooperation Office, which over the years has been an integral part of building bridges between universities and international institutions, promoting cooperation and mutual understanding. The aim of the International Cooperation Office has been, and continues to be, both to promote dialogue, cultural exchange and cooperation in various fields. Our chronicle is not only a source of documentation of the intercultural bridges created and relationships built, but is also a kind of journey through the events that have shaped the contemporary landscape of international cooperation at UPJPII.
As part of our activities, we have organised numerous educational programmes, seminars and webinars, enabling students and academic and administrative staff to gain experience and exchange knowledge internationally. At the same time, we have created a platform that provides an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss current challenges and build networks.
The Chronicle of International Cooperation not only reflects our past, but also demonstrates our commitment to building a better future. It is a unique resource for understanding how various activities have contributed to the development of international relations.
We believe that browsing through our chronicle will provide you not only with historical context, but also with inspiration to continue working towards a common goal - expanding international cooperation between universities and higher education institutions.
We invite you to take a look at our CHRONICLE!
Anti-system rhythms and shelters: Erasmus+ students on the paths of freedom and history
On December 3, 2024, Erasmus+ students, alongside pedagogy students, participated in a unique cultural event organized by the International Cooperation Office. A visit to the Nowa Huta Museum, a branch of the Krakow Museum, offered a captivating journey through history, culture, and the struggle for freedom. Students explored two thought-provoking exhibitions: "Rebellion in the System: Musical Spaces of Freedom 1945–89" and "Atomic Fear: Shelters in Nowa Huta." From rock’n’roll rebellion to Cold War shelters, the experience immersed participants in the spirit of resilience and creativity.
Discover how this extraordinary event connected cultures and sparked reflection on freedom and security on our website!
Academic Visit from the University of Prešov in the Framework of Erasmus+
From November 19 to 21, 2024, the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow welcomed lecturers from the University of Prešov, doc. Ján Husár, PhD, and doc. Štefan Šák, PhD, as part of the Erasmus+ program. Their visit aimed to exchange teaching experiences, enhance academic qualifications, and deepen collaboration in theology and culture. Students had the unique opportunity to attend lectures exploring biblical studies, Orthodox spirituality, and the social aspects of faith. Topics ranged from the ecological dimension of Scripture to the liturgical and ascetic life of the Orthodox Church.
Learn how this enriching exchange fostered theological dialogue and inspired new perspectives on our website!
Strengthening Trust and Security in Cyberspace: A Visit by Assist. Prof. Dr. Dangis Rimkus from KTU
From November 4 to 7, 2024, Assist. Prof. Dr. Dangis Rimkus from the Department of Applied Informatics at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) visited the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow to lead workshops on online security. His sessions, aimed at Public Relations and Journalism students, explored practical defenses against cyber threats, brand credibility online, and reputation management. By analyzing real-world cases, Assist. Prof. Dr. Rimkus highlighted the dangers of identity theft, phishing, and advanced scams like “quishing,” while offering actionable tips for safeguarding digital assets. Participants gained practical skills to combat cybercrime, protect their digital presence, and manage online trust effectively.
Discover how this valuable knowledge can enhance digital safety and reputation management on our website!
Along the Royal Route – Erasmus+ Students Discover Historic Kraków
On October 30th, the Erasmus+ group enjoyed an extraordinary opportunity to explore Krakow and immerse themselves in its rich history. Guided by Joanna Świtała, a licensed guide, they embarked on a tour of the Old Town and Wawel Hill, uncovering the royal city's most iconic landmarks. Highlights included the majestic Wawel Cathedral, a symbol of Polish heritage, and the bustling Main Market Square, where the charm of St. Mary’s Basilica and the Sukiennice captivated the visitors. Each step through Krakow’s historic streets revealed fascinating stories, architectural wonders, and local treasures. The journey left the participants inspired and eager to delve further into Polish culture and history.
More information on our website!
International Exchange of Knowledge: Visit of Slovak Sociologist at the Faculty of Theology at UPJPII
From October 28 to 31, 2024, the Faculty of Theology at the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow hosted Professor Ondrej Štefaňák from Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra. The visit, organized under the Erasmus+ program, marked a milestone as Professor Štefaňák became the first lecturer from Nitra's Theology Department to deliver lectures at UPJPII. His insightful presentations focused on Slovak youth's religiosity and morality, sparking lively discussions among students and faculty. This historic visit also included fruitful meetings exploring future academic collaborations and sharing unique cultural experiences.
Read more about this inspiring exchange on our website!
New Prospects for Academic Collaboration – Rev. Dr. Sheridan on Irish Religious Education and International Cooperation
From October 28th to 31st, the Faculty of Theology at the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow welcomed Fr. Prof. John-Paul Sheridan, Acting Dean of Theology at St. Patrick’s Pontifical University in Maynooth, Ireland, as part of the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility for Teaching (STA) program. Fr. Prof. Sheridan conducted lectures for theology students and seminarians, introducing the Shared Christian Praxis method developed by Thomas Groome and sharing insights on Ireland's religious education system. Discussions with the Rector of UPJPII explored strengthening collaboration between the universities, focusing on joint research and teaching projects within Erasmus+. He also visited the International Cooperation Office to plan future mobility programs and toured the university's Main Library, marveling at its unique academic and historical theological collections. Learn more about this visit on the St. Patrick’s Pontifical University website.
More information HERE!!
New Horizons of Cooperation: Meeting of the Office of International Cooperation with L’Œuvre d’Orient and Institut chrétiens d'Orient
On October 29th, 2024, during the academic conference The Spirituality of Eastern Fathers of the Church, the International Cooperation Office met with representatives of the French organization L’Œuvre d’Orient. Discussions focused on expanding collaboration between the university and L’Œuvre d’Orient, emphasizing cultural and academic events as well as student and volunteer projects in the Middle East. The planned initiatives include internships and volunteer programs offering students unique professional and cultural experiences. The meeting also opened dialogue with the Institut chrétiens d'Orient, paving the way for joint scientific projects and academic exchange. This milestone marks significant progress in fostering international partnerships and promoting intercultural understanding.
More information HERE!
Learning Communities in a Globalized World – International Quality of Education Congress, Katowice 2024
From October 23rd to 25th, 2024, Katowice hosted the International Congress on Quality in Education, a gathering of university representatives, experts, and practitioners from around the world. The second day, focused on “Learning Communities in the Context of Internationalization and Other Educational Challenges,” saw active participation from the International Cooperation Office alongside the Vice-Rector for Internationalization. The Congress featured inspiring panels, including the opening session on student and staff mobility, led by top experts like Prof. Larry Jackson from Columbia University. Discussions highlighted innovative exchange programs fostering global integration and academic growth. The event concluded with a visit to the Silesian Museum, offering a perfect blend of inspiration, relaxation, and networking.
More information HERE!
Orientation Day 2024 - a new chapter for Erasmus+ Students at UPJPII
On October 1st, 2024, at 11:00 AM, the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow hosted an Orientation Day for Erasmus students arriving for the winter semester. The event introduced new students to the academic life of the university, showcased educational opportunities, and highlighted Krakow's cultural richness. Students from across Europe connected, sharing experiences and forming new friendships. The day featured presentations on academic programs, the university's rich history, and Krakow's vibrant cultural offerings, as well as workshops led by International Office coordinators. This memorable event offered a warm welcome and essential guidance to help Erasmus students begin their academic journey in Krakow.
More information HERE!
Professor Susi Ferfoglia, a specialist in Gregorian chant, visited ESMUC for the second time to lead a course titled 'Hildegard von Bingen: Music, Genre, and Religious Inspiration in Twelfth-Century Europe' on April 11 and 12. The course, coordinated by Professor Juan Carlos Asensio, delved into the multifaceted persona of the nun Hildegard of Bingen, focusing particularly on her compositions which defy traditional rules of composition. Professor Ferfoglia explored both the theoretical and practical aspects of Hildegard's work using medieval sources. With expertise from her role as an academic lecturer and director of the Institute of Sacred Music at the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow, as well as her experience leading postgraduate courses and directing ensembles specializing in Hildegard's works, Professor Ferfoglia brings a wealth of knowledge to the subject.
More information can be found HERE!
Orientation Day - summer 2023/2024
On February 21, 2024, Orientation Day was held at the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow, dedicated to incoming Erasmus students for the summer semester. The event was aimed at introducing new students to the academic life, academic opportunities and cultural heritage of the city of Krakow.
More about the event HERE!
Erasmus+ 2024/2025: Expand Educational Horizons! Report on the Information Meeting
An information meeting dedicated to the Erasmus+ programme at UPJPII was held on 19 January 2024. During the event, participants had the opportunity to obtain important information about the programme, understand the value of participation and learn about other projects run by the International Cooperation Office.
You can read and see more about the event HERE!
Invitation can be found HERE!
On 19 December 2023, a meeting between students and academics of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and UPJPII took place at UPJPII. The programme included lectures, discussions, as well as workshops in which students had the opportunity not only to deepen their understanding of contemporary international conflicts and migration, but also to learn about the mechanism of shaping the narrative on migration and conflict by the Polish media or to see how Poland is present in foreign media. As part of the event, students from CUHK together with representatives of UPJPII analysed the image of the war in Ukraine in the media and exchanged experiences and knowledge about migration, media functioning, which fostered an understanding of the global context of contemporary international issues.
You can read and see more about the event HERE!
Guests from Matej Bel University discover the secrets of higher education at UPJPII
UPJPII hosted representatives from Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica (Slovakia) as part of the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility for Training programme. The meeting, which lasted from 27.11 to 01.12.2023, focused on the exchange of experiences in the field of international promotion, the implementation of educational projects and innovative forms of education, especially Service Learning, which integrates learning with social activities. Talks also focused on cooperation in the area of libraries and a tour of the campus. Visitors highlighted the unique laboratories and the student TV and radio studio. A visit to the Teaching Department allowed for in-depth discussions on the organisation of studies and the design of educational programmes. These meetings, led by Erasmus+ coordinators, staff from the Teaching Department and the International Cooperation Office identified common challenges and inspiring solutions, opening the door to potential collaboration. The Erasmus+ programme demonstrated itself as a catalyst for international collaboration, highlighting its importance in a dynamic educational environment.
You can read and see more about the event HERE!
Lecture by Prof. Eileen Lyon, Ph.D. 15 VI 2023
Lecture by Prof. Eileen Lyon, Ph.D. (Department of History, The State University of New York at Fredonia) organised jointly by the Faculty of Theology and the Office of International Cooperation entitled. "Religious and Cultural Life as Integral Strategies for Survival in German Concentration Camps" was delivered on 15 June 2023 in the Auditorium of UPJPII in Krakow. It enjoyed great interest as an educational as well as reflective event.
Mmore to read HERE!
Visit of incoming Erasmus students to the Media Education Centre
On 23 May 2023, a group of Erasmus students as participants in the Journalism in the Digital Age course paid a visit to the Media Education Center (Media Education Center) in Kielce.
Take a look at the gallery available HERE!
Meeting with a guest as part of the Erasmus programme
On 3 February, a meeting took place with Katarzyna Radwanska, a doctoral student at the Doctoral School, who is also an ambassador of the Erasmus+ programme at UPJPII, talked about her experience with the Erasmus+ programme and how it has influenced her further professional and academic life.
The invitation to the meeting is available HERE!
Ceremony at Bethlehem University
On October 21, 2022, a delegation from the University took part in an amazing event in Bethlehem. As part of Bethlehem University's 50th anniversary celebrations, the University authorities decided to open the celebrations with a ceremony naming the University library after Stanislaw and Halina Zbierski.
More information can be found HERE!
Gallery is available HERE!
Visiting Professor from the University of Debrecen, Hungary
As part of the new edition of the 'Visiting Professor' programme, students of pedagogy had the opportunity to participate in the classes 'Reading about Social Pedagogy' (30 hours of exercises) and 'Selected Aspect of Special Pedagogy' (30 hours of lectures) taught by Dr Magdolna Nemes, PhD, Assist. Prof. from the University of Debrecen, Department of Applied Social Sciences.
Read more HERE!
"How to survive a pandemic" - online lecture
On 23 March 2021, an online lecture was held, during which one of Poland's top psychiatrists, Prof. Bogdan de Barbaro, MD, PhD, answered one of the most frequently asked questions in the COVID-19 era: how to survive a pandemic?
More information is available HERE!
Muzeum Obwarzanka Trip Erasmus Students Summer 2020/2021
Erasmus + exchange students in the 2020/2021 academic year had the extraordinary pleasure of visiting the Obwarzanka Museum in Kraków. The museum is a real feast for the senses and a window into the world of Kraków's obwarzanek tradition. Not only did our foreign students have the opportunity to learn many fascinating facts about the history of this distinctive Krakow delicacy and its cultural significance, but they were also able to admire the various shapes and flavours of the obwarzanek. This amazing experience allowed them to understand the local culture and history of the city. The event provided an opportunity to peel back the secrets of Krakow, build memories and integrate.
More can be read HERE!
Orientation Days 2020/2021 Winter Semester
Gallery can be found HERE!
Semester-long Culture of the USA course
The semester-long Culture of the USA cure, led by Fulbright ETA Programme grantee Ms Madison Harry, and organised by the UPJPII Department of History and Cultural Heritage and the Centre for Science, Research and International Cooperation, was launched on 10 October 2016.
You can read more about the event on HERE!
The Charm of Polish Mountains
Together with a group of Erasmus+ students, UPJP2 students decided to see the beauty of the Polish mountains.
Take a look at the gallery from the event available HERE!
Orientation Days 2016/2017 Winter Semester
Orientation Day, or Orientation Day, is a unique event dedicated to incoming Erasmus+ students. It is a moment that marks the start of an extraordinary educational and cultural adventure at UPJPII. During the day, the new students were warmly welcomed by the team of the International Cooperation Office (then the Centre for Science, Research and International Cooperation). The programme of the Orientation Day included introducing the students to practical information about university life, the culture of the university, as well as allowing them to meet new friends from different parts of the world and learn more about the attractions offered by Krakow - one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Orientation Day is the perfect time to start building an international community and make your first friends.
Take a look at the gallery from the event available HERE!
