Bebok Mobilok – a new figure at the Silesian University of Technology
On April 17th at the Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology, another Bebok in Katowice, named Mobilok, was unveiled. This is the first Bebok in the history of the university.
The “Beboki” of Katowice have been some of the most recognizable symbols of Katowice since 2021. A group of small outdoor sculptures depicting figures from folk beliefs are placed in various places of the city. They were created on the initiative and according to the design of the Katowice artist Grzegorz Chudy.
Now the Silesian University of Technology also has its Bebok. It is called “Mobilok.” The sculpture refers to the activity of all four departments of the Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering. That is why it presents Bebok in the company of: the “Toddler” car – the Polish Fiat 126p version BIS, the famous Polish locomotive of the Pm36-1 type, PZL-104 Wilga - a well-known aircraft appreciated by professionals, and the “general „traffic control signal type S-1. Thanks to its functioning signalling device, it is the first glowing and electronic Bebok in history.
The ceremonial unveiling of the figurine at the entrance to the Faculty building was made by the Rector of the Silesian University of Technology, Prof. Dr Hab. Eng. Marek Pawełczyk, the Dean of Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering Dr Hab. Eng. Grzegorz Sierpiński, Prof. SUT, and the President of Katowice, Dr Eng. Marcin Krupa.
- This is an extraordinary moment that opens a new chapter in the history of the Faculty of Transport and Aviation Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology. The Bebok is unique - it is dynamic, modern, unique, with a perfectly matched name, full of technologies - just like this Faculty and the entire Silesian University of Technology - said Rector Marek Pawełczyk. - It perfectly shows outside what is happening inside the Faculty building but also marks the growing presence of the Silesian University of Technology in Katowice. We are open to young people, to society and let this figure encourage you to visit our University.
- This Bebok is also a symbol of good cooperation between the Silesian University of Technology and Katowice. It will pay attention to the development of the University, which also increases the attractiveness and scientific potential of our region. It is also special to me. It is my university, my first place of work, I spent an important part of my life here – said President Marcin Krupa. We are always happy to join the joint scientific activities and the creation of the entire structure of laboratories because it allows to educate the next generations in accordance with the times.
The ceremony was attended by many residents of Katowice and Bebok fans who collect commemorative stamps. The originator of the initiative Grzegorz Chudy and Dariusz Kik, who made a cast of the figure, also came to the event.
- Each of the more than 120 Beboks is unique to me. On the other hand, with this particular Mobilok it can be said that we are entering the era of technological advancement of these black figures. It is the first glowing Bebok, but I can reveal that more of them, with mechanical elements, are planned - said Grzegorz Chudy. - I still can’t believe there are so many. It is the fulfilment of my artistic dream, and I am glad that they arouse so many emotions, smile and provoke residents and visitors to walk around the city.
The name “Bebok” was chosen through a contest. Many proposals came to the organizers from the Faculty, but the idea of Dr Eng. Dawid Makieła, an assistant professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology won.
- It is a very pleasant distinction. I took the idea of the name from everyday life. We drive cars, sometimes we use CB-radio and probably we often hear the slogan “hello all mobiles, what is the road to Katowice like?” I thought that it might fit into the new, good soul of the Faculty - explains Dr Eng. Dawid Makieła.
Perhaps a new tradition has also been initiated at the Faculty. During the unveiling, students were encouraged to catch Bebok Mobilok by the horns before exams.
- May he remind us of every day about two things: our Silesian roots and the fact that modern engineering needs soul and character. This name is not accidental. The word Mobilok contains our passion for mobility, transport and continuous movement, and the characteristic suffix gives him this unmistakable Silesian accent. It is here, among laboratories, simulators, and engineering projects, that he will find his new, thoroughly modern, technical home – explains Dean Grzegorz Sierpiński. – I would like to especially thank Grzegorz Chudy, creator of Bebok and author of the painting, Dariusz Kik for preparing the model and making the casting, and Vice Dean for Infrastructure and Organization Dr Eng. Adam Mańka, for the enormity of organizational work, the result of which is the unveiling and current form of the figurine.
