Following the success of the inaugural Polish–Italian Intensive School on Energy Transition held at the University of Pavia, we are delighted to announce the second edition of this unique international educational initiative, which will take place in Katowice, Poland.

The programme was originally established by Professor Katarzyna Gromek-Broc (University of Pavia) and Dr. Marcin Kraśniewski (University of Economics in Katowice) with the aim of creating an interdisciplinary and practice-oriented learning environment dedicated to the most pressing challenges of the global energy transition. The first edition brought together students, academics and international experts to explore issues related to sustainability, just transition, clean energy, nuclear innovation, climate policy and energy security through an innovative “learning by doing” approach.
The Katowice Edition will build upon this successful foundation and offer participants a unique opportunity to engage directly with leading academics, policymakers, industry representatives and international experts. The programme will combine high-quality academic teaching with practical workshops, negotiation simulations, policy debates, case studies, study visits and networking activities designed to develop both subject-specific knowledge and professional competencies.

Katowice provides an exceptional setting for such an initiative. As the heart of one of Europe’s most significant industrial regions, the city has become a recognised example of how a coal-dependent economy can successfully navigate the challenges of decarbonisation and just transition. Participants will therefore have the opportunity not only to discuss energy transition from a theoretical perspective but also to observe and analyse real-world transformation processes taking place within the Upper Silesian region.

The Intensive School is open to students from all fields of study at the University of Economics in Katowice and the University of Pavia. We particularly encourage applications from students interested in energy, climate policy, sustainability, law, economics, public policy, international relations, business, innovation and European affairs. However, the interdisciplinary nature of the programme means that students from any academic background are welcome to apply.

To ensure a highly interactive learning experience and close cooperation between participants and experts, the number of places is strictly limited. A maximum of 20 students will be selected for participation, including 10 students from the University of Economics in Katowice and 10 students from the University of Pavia.

Participation in the Polish–Italian Intensive School on Energy Transition offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable international experience, develop practical skills, build professional networks and become part of a growing community of future leaders shaping the energy transition in Europe and beyond.