This is a historic moment in the history of the Silesian Medical University in Katowice – 75 students of the newly established SUM branch in Bielsko-Biala majoring in medicine took the solemn oath. Through the act of matriculation, they became members of the academic community.
The official part
– The day we have all been waiting for has arrived. Today you have crossed the thresholds of our University. This is an extremely important moment in your lives. It is also a landmark moment in the history of the Silesian Medical University, which can be compared to the symbolic laying of the keel for your ship. For six years you will now build it, to later set sail on the waters of your professional career. Our academic staff will, of course, do everything to help you in this. We are here for you and are here to help you – said Prof. Jerzy Stojko, PhD, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at SUM.
– I am touched that a branch of the Silesian Medical University was established in my hometown and that from today you will be educated in the medical field. I remember vividly the day I was in your place.It was exactly in 1979. However, I was not as lucky as you because I had to leave my beloved Bielsko to go to Rokitnica in Zabrze. Today, you no longer have to leave your hometown to get the education you need and make your dream come true – said Prof. Edward Wylęgała, MD, Vice Rector for Development and Technology Transfer, who also added: – The road to make this faculty come into being, although it was long, was certainly worth the work of all the people who put a lot of strength and heart into making it possible for all of us to be here today.
– I am very happy that this project has been realized. We set a goal of 75 students in the new SUM branch for the university's 75th anniversary, and this has been achieved, which I am very pleased with. The building where we are located has new laboratories, seminar rooms and computer rooms. Each of the rooms is well equipped. This is a completely different dimension of teaching. Of course, rooms and equipment are one thing. Undoubtedly, what should be emphasized here is the highly qualified academic staff under whose tutelage our students will be educated – said Prof. dr. hab. n. med. and n.o zdr. Jolanta Zalejska-Fiolka, Dean of the SUM Branch in Bielsko-Biała, who also added:- It is an honor for me to perform such an important function. I thank the Authorities of the University for their trust.
Kamil Nikel, Chairman of the SUM Student Government, also spoke: – A few years ago I was also in your shoes. New people, new challenges, great responsibility.And a lot of questions in my head: did I choose a good university? Will I manage in my studies? Will I find myself here? Now I know that the choice of university was a hit. My studies allowed me to gain new friendships that will stay with me forever, gave me the opportunity to grow academically as well as spiritually. I am sure it will be the same in your case. Studying is not only about learning, but you have to find your "golden mean". Therefore, I want to encourage you to actively participate in the life of the University, get involved in the initiatives of the self-government and belong to study circles and organizations. It is during extra-curricular activities that you will be able to realize your ideas and passions, while learning many useful and interesting things.
The unofficial part
After the official part, students received a package of essential information. SUM staff prepared lectures for them on both the use of university platforms and SUM Library resources. Yesterday's meeting also saw the premiere of a unique project, the "Bibliomission". It's a combination of a platform game and multimedia training to help students and players become familiar with how to use the library. The project (https://bibliomisja.sum.edu.pl) was developed in cooperation between the SUM Library and the Center for Remote Learning and Educational Outcomes Analysis.
Mr. Adam Ubych became the supervisor of the first-year students and medical faculty in Bielsko-Biala.
Inauguration of the Academic Year 2023/2024
The official inauguration of the Academic Year 2023/2024 will take place on Monday, October 9.Two ceremonies will be held in connection with the establishment of the SUM branch.The first will begin at 11:00 am at the International Congress Center in Katowice. The second will be held at 6:00 pm at the Polish Theater in Bielsko-Biała.
