Professor Andrzej K. Koźmiński, founder and first Rector of Kozminski University, has received the Lech Wałęsa Energy Medal. The award was presented during a conference on the energy transition, innovation and the future of freedom, held on 29 September 2026 at the National Museum in Warsaw. The University was also represented by its Rector, Professor Grzegorz Mazurek.
The conference, “Eco-Energy, Innovation and the Future of Freedom: An Invitation from Lech Wałęsa”, was organised by the Lech Wałęsa Institute to mark the 83rd birthday of the former President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. It brought together representatives of academia, business, public administration, and the energy sector. Kozminski University served as the conference’s academic patron.
The discussions connected economic and technological challenges with questions of security, sovereignty, and the social implications of change. Key themes included the energy transition in Poland and Europe, innovation, and the importance of international cooperation. The programme also addressed leadership and the values associated with the legacy of the Solidarity movement.
A highlight of the event was the Lech Wałęsa Energy Medal ceremony. The awards recognise achievements in sharing knowledge, advancing innovation and contributing to society. The assessment criteria included the impact of recipients’ work, innovation, contributions to energy security, the social dimension of the energy transition, leadership, and European cooperation.
Professor Andrzej K. Koźmiński was among those honoured. After receiving the medal, he delivered an address on the importance of freedom, leadership, and innovation for the future of Poland and Europe. He also reflected on economic and technological transformation, contributing to the wider discussion about the relationship between the development of a modern economy and freedom.
Professor Andrzej K. Koźmiński is an economist and sociologist specialising in management and economic and political transformation. He served as Rector of Kozminski University from 1993 to 2011 and is now its Honorary President. His work includes more than 50 books on management and a longstanding contribution to research and teaching in Poland and internationally.
Photo: Bartosz Kozłowski
