During this year's Inauguration of the Academic Year at the University of Economics in Katowice, we hosted the the Marshal of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland, Szymon Hołownia, who delivered a speech addressed to the University's academic community.
"As a politician among economists, I ask: do these two worlds have anything in common? In fact, they share a great deal – their roots. Politics originates from 'polis', and economics from 'oikos'. So, 'oikos' means home, and 'polis' refers to the broader community, the city. Economics allows us to manage our household affairs wisely, while 'polis' and the politics that arise from it deal with common matters. (...) Often, in common understanding, profit is seen as the goal of economics. (...) But this is not the case. The ultimate goal of economics is community. The same goes for politics. The goal of politics is not victory, as it is often mistakenly perceived and presented by politicians. (...) The goal of politics is community. Economics and politics have a great deal in common, and yet, they often stray far from their original purpose, their source. That is why they need each other, to remind themselves of their purpose; to mitigate, encourage, and remind each other of why they exist" - emphasized
Later in his speech, our guest referred to the boundary conditions of the competition we are about to embark on. The first is that we are in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which has profound implications for our entire world. The second factor is the experience of five powerful crises simultaneously. These are the climate crisis, the migration crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the financial crisis, which has shown us that 'nothing that seems certain is certain anymore'. The third vector to consider when naming the competition in which we will be racing is the multipolarity of the world," emphasized Szymon Hołownia.
The Marshal of the Sejm outlined the main challenges facing Poland. First and foremost is the green transformation:
"Silesia has enormous potential to become an absolute European benchmark in transforming the economy, but also people and lifestyles, and innovation in the area of green energy. The second major challenge is the war in Ukraine and all its economic implications. The third, and most difficult challenge, is social cohesion. I believe that our generation has the greatest responsibility of many generations," - he added.
In closing, Szymon Hołownia invoked a Chinese proverb: "It is later than you think." He underscored the urgency of the moment, urging us to recognize that the coming year is too precious to squander. Every minute spent here acquiring knowledge, sharing ideas, developing, and advancing Polish interests is invaluable, not just for ourselves but for generations to come.
"I wholeheartedly support your efforts. I am confident that such a remarkable community, comprised of such exceptional individuals and united by such a beautiful anthem, is more than capable of rising to this challenge. Poland takes great pride in your accomplishments and eagerly anticipates the fruits of your labor. Continue to build this extraordinary community that you are fostering at this University".
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