Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the International Maria Curie-Skłodowska Congress, "Innovation is a Woman: Science – Business – Education," one of the most significant events commemorating the 80th anniversary of Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin.
I am pleased not only by the occasion of this anniversary but also by the profound message conveyed through the ceremonial opening of the Congress. Our aim is to highlight the critical importance of women's contributions to science and, more broadly, to the public sphere, as well as the necessity of their open and unconventional thinking—thinking that fosters new qualities, products, relationships, and solutions. For this reason, we are honored to host representatives from a diverse array of fields, including science, education, politics, business, and journalism.
In recognizing the scientific achievements of our university's patron, as well as her active involvement in both advancing and popularizing science, we also wish to engage in a dialogue about the role and place of women in science, business, and education. This aligns with her advocacy for the promotion of women and the principles of contemporary feminism. As the slogan of this year's Congress affirms, "innovation is a woman."
We are privileged to seek inspiration together, in such esteemed company, from the theme of this year's Congress. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your presence and support during this pivotal moment for our university.
I wish you all fruitful discussions and I hope that the joint celebration of the university’s anniversary at UMCS and in the academic community of Lublin will provide ample inspiration.
Prof. Radosław Dobrowolski
Rector of Maria Curie-Skłodowska University
