How can science reach beyond laboratories and lecture halls to genuinely influence society? This question guided the discussions during the “Building the Future of Science Together” conference, held on 10 October 2025 at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in Warsaw.
The event launched a national initiative focused on science communication and public engagement. During the conference, the Ministry announced the creation of the Advisory Council for the Popularisation of Science and declared that 2026 will be celebrated as the Year of Science Popularisation. Plans also include the first POP Science Congress, to be held in Katowice later this year.
Speakers underlined that the popularisation of science should become an integral part of academic activity and be recognised within the evaluation system of universities. Discussions also touched upon the importance of dialogue rather than one-way communication – treating science as a shared process that fosters trust and builds a knowledge-based society.
For Kozminski University, the idea of popularising science aligns with the university’s guiding principle: “Research that matters”. The institution consistently develops research projects, analyses and educational initiatives that respond to real societal and economic challenges – connecting science with practice and impact.
