A delegation of Khmelnytskyi National University, consisting of Rector Serhii Matiukh, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Transport and Architecture Oleh Polishchuk, and Associate Professor of the Department of Machines and Apparatuses, Electromechanical and Energy Systems Andrii Polishchuk, paid a working visit to the AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków (Poland).
The purpose of the visit was to promote and strengthen cooperation between Khmelnytskyi National University and the AGH University of Science and Technology, which is an important step in the development of academic and scientific ties between Ukraine and Poland. The visit created favourable conditions for the exchange of experience, expansion of contacts, and joint development of scientific and educational projects.
On 2 October 2025, the delegation of Khmelnytskyi National University took part in the opening ceremony of the 2025/2026 academic year for first-year full-time and part-time students of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics (WIMiR) of the AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków.
During the ceremony, students were congratulated on the occasion by Professor Krzysztof Mendrok, Vice-Rector for Education, and Professor Jarosław Konieczny, Dean of the Faculty. A presentation of the faculty was held, and the study programs in which students would be enrolled in the future were introduced.
This was followed by the matriculation ceremony and the awarding of scholarships to students who demonstrated the best academic results.
During the ceremony, a lecture entitled “From an Idea to Your Own Company – 25 Years of the History of Two Engineers from WIMiR” was delivered.
On June 19, 2025, Dr. hab., Eng., Professor Mariusz Gergel of the AGH University of Science and Technology was awarded the title of Honorary Doctor of Sciences by Khmelnytskyi National University.
This title was conferred by the decision of the Academic Council of Khmelnytskyi National University in recognition of his significant contributions to the development of education and science, as well as for many years of fruitful cooperation between the universities, which contributed to strengthening friendly relations between Ukraine and Poland.
This step became a symbol of mutual respect and gratitude for Professor Mariusz Gergel's efforts in developing international cooperation that extends far beyond academic contacts, providing support for cultural and scientific ties between the two countries.
The official awarding of the distinction took place during the opening ceremony of the 2025/2026 academic year for first-year students.
The Rector of Khmelnytskyi National University, Serhii Matiukh, presented Professor Mariusz Gergel with the diploma and the attributes of the honorary title—a confederate cap and a yellow-and-blue ribbon.
During the visit, a meeting was held between the Ukrainian delegation and Professor Jarosław Konieczny, the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics.
At the meeting, important issues related to bilateral cooperation were discussed. Particular attention was paid to opportunities for joint scientific and cultural projects, the development of academic exchange programs for students and faculty, the Erasmus+ program for Ukrainian students, double-degree programs, and other initiatives.
The participants also focused on the implementation of innovative educational technologies, the exchange of experience in the use of modern equipment, and the integration of the latest achievements into industry.
Issues related to organising joint conferences and seminars were discussed, which would help expand the network of professional contacts. This will contribute to strengthening the international reputation of both higher education institutions and their integration into the global academic community.
The delegation from Khmelnytskyi National University also met with Professor Ł ukasz Pieczonka, Head of the Department of Robotics and Mechatronics.
The parties discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of robotic and mechatronic systems, opportunities for joint scientific research, academic mobility of students and faculty, and the implementation of international projects. Special attention was paid to integrating modern technologies into the educational process and exchanging experiences in using innovative equipment for training specialists in these fields.
With the participation of the Ukrainian delegation, Professor Mariusz Gergel and Dr Andrii Kudriashov from the Department of Robotics and Mechatronics conducted a methodological seminar. It is worth noting that Dr Andrii Kudriashov previously graduated from Khmelnytskyi National University with a bachelor’s degree and is currently a faculty member of the AGH University of Science and Technology.
During the seminar, important aspects of curricula and educational programs implemented at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics were discussed. The seminar provided a platform for the exchange of experiences between Ukrainian and Polish specialists in the fields of education and science.
While staying at the AGH University of Science and Technology, the delegation from Khmelnytskyi National University also participated in a meeting of the Public Council of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics.
The Public Council comprises distinguished representatives from industry, business, and science, primarily graduates of AGH and WIMiR. Its main functions include assisting in graduate employment, organising domestic and international student internships, promoting and advocating for the faculty, as well as providing consulting and support in implementing its development plans.
The delegation of Khmelnytskyi National University also attended presentations of:
– the Student Council;
– the Doctoral Students’ Сouncil;
– student scientific clubs, including AGH Racing, E-Moto AGH, AGH Space Systems, New-Tech, Dron Engineering, and others.
The Ukrainian delegation visited the laboratories of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Robotics, where they became acquainted with the equipment used in the educational process and scientific research.
The visit of the Khmelnytskyi National University delegation to the AGH University of Science and Technology marked a significant step in the development of cooperation between the two universities. Deepened mutual understanding between the institutions will create a solid foundation for a long-term partnership aimed at improving the quality of education, professional development of students and faculty, and strengthening scientific cooperation.
We sincerely thank Professors Mariusz Giergiel and Tomasz Buratowski for organising the Ukrainian delegation’s visit to AGH University of Science and Technology, for their hospitality, professionalism, and efforts invested in organising meetings and seminars.