Between flavours and history – Cultural Day 2025 at Gdańsk University of Technology | Gdańsk University of Technology

From the very beginning, the event was full of life – music playing in the background, the buzz of conversations, and the scents of dishes from various continents drew the attention of all visitors.

Photo by Mateusz Golan

The event was officially opened by the Rector of Gdańsk University of Technology, Professor Krzysztof Wilde, DSc, Eng., corresponding member of the Polish Academy of Sciences, who emphasized the importance of the international doctoral community and the value of initiatives that promote openness and intercultural cooperation.

Photo by Mateusz Golan

The highlight of the programme was the cultural presentations prepared by doctoral students representing, among others, Iran, Pakistan, Brazil, Kashubia, Ukraine, Turkey, Egypt, Tunisia, and Ethiopia. With great passion, they spoke about their countries – sharing stories about architecture that reflects the spirit of their cultures, legends passed down from generation to generation, rich histories, as well as outstanding figures: scientists, artists, athletes – those who have permanently inscribed themselves in the history of their nations. They also told stories about aromatic spices, local delicacies, and food-related traditions. Thanks to this, the audience could momentarily travel to the presented corners of the world – vibrant cities, picturesque landscapes, or the family homes of the presenters.

Photo by Mateusz Golan

There were also artistic and educational elements. The doctoral students invited participants to join in a group dance full of positive energy, creating a relaxed and integrative atmosphere. In the educational part, a lecture was delivered by Professor Mariusz Mróz, conductor of the Academic Choir of Gdańsk University of Technology, dedicated to the presence of high culture at technical universities – and how the worlds of engineering and art intertwine.

Photo by Mateusz Golan

Throughout the event, visitors could explore cultural stands filled with colourful fabrics, traditional instruments, and personal memorabilia. It was there – through conversations and spontaneous stories – that the atmosphere of openness and curiosity about the world could truly be felt. Each stand was like a small stop on a journey through another culture, offering the chance to meet its representatives face to face.

Photo by Mateusz Golan

To conclude the day, a cook-off was held, during which doctoral students presented traditional dishes from their countries. Cooking and tasting together provided a great opportunity for relaxed conversations and discovering the flavours that are part of their daily lives. The jury evaluated the dishes based on taste and presentation, but what mattered most was the very act of coming together at the table – filled with kindness, curiosity, and genuine interest in what is different.

Photo by Mateusz Golan

The event was also attended by: Dr Barbara Wikieł, university professor – Vice-Rector for Student Affairs; Professor Ewa Lechman – Deputy Director for Education, Quality and PQF; and Professor Maciej Bagiński, DSc, Eng. – Deputy Director for Development and Internationalisation.

Cultural Day is an event that naturally brings people together, allows them to get to know each other better, and see diversity as a value. We are pleased with the active involvement of doctoral students from our School in creating this initiative – we hope it will become a permanent feature of the academic calendar at Gdańsk University of Technology. At the same time, we encourage all doctoral students to actively participate in university life – also beyond the academic sphere. Shared events, projects, and initiatives are a great opportunity to build relationships, develop passions, and simply feel good in the community we co-create.