Students from China visiting the Silesian University of Technology
The Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology hosted a group of students from China as part of an academic international exchange program on May 19th -28th, 2025. This visit was an expression of the deepening cooperation with universities from Asia and was an important step toward further strengthening the relations between our Faculty and partners from the Middle Kingdom.
The ten-day visit of students from China at the Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering of the Silesian University of Technology was not only a didactic and cultural event, but also a strategic step in the development of international cooperation. This is the next stage in the consistent policy of internationalization conducted by the Faculty and the effect of the active initiative of its authorities.
“International cooperation is an integral part of our strategy. Thanks to such initiatives, we present the research and didactic potential of our Faculty, show the way of conducting classes and open ourselves to students from all over the world. I believe that this is the beginning of a long-term relationship” – said Prof. Dr Hab. Eng. Krzysztof Pikoń, Vice-Dean of the Faculty and the main organizer of the visit.
The program was officially opened by Prof. Dr Hab. Eng. Krzysztof Pikoń and Prof. Dr Hab. Eng. Ireneusz Szczygieł – Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering, who from the beginning support the development of internationalization in teaching and science.
The visit began with a presentation of the Silesian University of Technology, the region of Silesia and Poland, combined with a visit to the campus and laboratories. The introduction to the cultural and scientific context was prepared with full commitment by Dr Eng. Nikolina Poranek. On the same day, the integration of students took place, which became a space for free exchange of experiences.
The official academic part began with a welcome ceremony with the participation of the Dean of the Faculty. Next, the participants listened to the lecture by Anna Piotrowska, who presented the functioning of student organizations and presented what the implementation of the didactic process at our Faculty looks like from the point of view of students – emphasizing the modern approach, commitment of the academic community and good relations of lecturers with students.
Then there was a lecture by Prof. Krzysztof Pikoń entitled “Circular Economy and Energy Transition – a Sustainable Path Forward.” It touched on key global sustainability issues, which led to a lively and inspiring discussion with participants.
In the following days, students took part in intensive laboratory workshops, which allowed them to deepen their practical knowledge in the field of environmental engineering. Under the direction of Dr Eng. Marcin Landrat and M.Sc. Eng. Max Lewandowski, the participants examined the energy properties of various types of waste, analysing, among others, their calorific value, humidity, and ash content. Then, during the classes entitled “Microbe Hunters – Mission Air,” conducted by Dr Hab. Eng. Ewa Brągoszewska, Prof SUT, participants learned the basics of air microbiology and techniques of sampling and conducting experiments. The practical part was complemented by a presentation of the members of the Student Science Club “The Air Quality Team,” who presented their research projects related to air quality, environmental monitoring systems and innovative smart city solutions.
During the visit, students also had the opportunity to learn about the richness of Polish culture, history, and architectural heritage. In addition to visiting Gliwice and Katowice, trips to Krakow, Wroclaw and Warsaw were also organized. The participants visited historic districts, modern science centres and museums, which allowed them to better understand the socio-historical context of Poland and Silesia. Such experiences were of particular value in building mutual understanding and intercultural dialog.
The end of the stay was devoted to the preparation of final presentations and summary meetings, carried out with the support of the academic staff of our Faculty.
On the last day there was an information session devoted to the offer of master’s studies and professional opportunities in Poland. The ceremonial closing ceremony of the visit and the awarding of certificates constituted a symbolic summary of an intense and fruitful week.
“We want our Faculty to be perceived as an open, modern, and engaged place. We show that internationalization is not just a slogan – it is concrete actions that bring benefits to everyone: Students, researchers, and our partners” - summarised Prof. Pikoń.
As Prof. Dr Hab. Eng. Mariusz Dudziak noted, joint initiatives with foreign universities are an opportunity not only to develop research, but also to build lasting intercultural ties and open up to new perspectives of education.
Further initiatives of this type are planned – visits, joint research projects, as well as developing the offer of education in English. Thanks to this, the Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering not only strengthens its position on the academic map of Europe but becomes a real partner for universities and students from all over the world.
