The Faculty of Organization and Management at the Silesian University of Technology hosted workshops for high school students. The sessions were led by academic staff and experts from various companies and institutions. Students from secondary schools in Tarnowskie Góry developed useful skills and got to know our university as part of the “Transformation Action” project. So far, approximately 300 students have taken part. The workshops provided a unique opportunity to engage with professionals working in areas such as sustainable development, circular economy, and environmental protection.

“The aim of the project, co-financed by the European Union under the European Funds for Silesia 2021–2027 programme, is to equip participating young people with competencies that are highly valued in the job market—‘key’, ‘green’, and ‘future’ skills. It fosters green abilities, awareness, and attitudes, while also introducing tools for creating business models that utilize technologies respecting natural resources and protecting the environment. Another advantage is the opportunity to become familiar with our university’s modern educational facilities and the wide range of development opportunities we offer to young people,” emphasizes Professor Aleksandra Kuzior, Dean of the Faculty of Organization and Management and initiator of the project.

From March to June, around 30 experts participated in the meetings with youth, representing companies such as Fortum, FCC Environment Group, Natezja, ZPWiK, Nitroerg, Marco, Tauron Pomiary, and Tauron Dystrybucja.

During the final session of the project, Sławomir Wdowiak from the Zabrze City Guard introduced participants to the ecological tasks carried out by his unit, particularly efforts to prevent environmental pollution, for instance, by combating illegal waste dumping. The students also had the opportunity to operate a drone used for analyzing emissions from residential chimneys. This equipment, worth 300,000 PLN, helps identify individuals who burn garbage or other waste in their stoves. Additionally, Marlena Szastok-Gazda from GCR “Repty” discussed environmental protection and circular economy activities undertaken by the largest rehabilitation center in Poland, which treats as many as 8,000 patients annually. Dr. Michał Wyder focused on a sustainable lifestyle and rational screen time management, which helps prevent numerous health issues.