On 2 November 2023, a vibrant celebration of cultures took place, as German and Austrian students organised a series of great events, made possible with the support of the Student Affairs and Professional Development Office (SAPDO).
The festivities kicked off on Thursday, 2 November with the opening of the exhibition "Poles and Germans against the Communist Dictatorship" in the lobby of the Retinger Residence, a compelling display of history and resilience. In collaboration with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), the event was launched by the insightful remarks of Mr David GRZEGOSZ, Director of the KAS Office in Warsaw. Following this, students were treated to a delightful wine reception, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual discourse.
Friday, 3 November was the highlight of the celebrations, where everyone came together to celebrate the ties that bind the German and Austrian cultures. The day began with a reception featuring representatives from the Austrian and German Embassies in Warsaw, as well as the Austrian Cultural Forum. Impulses on cultural diplomacy and cultural bridges set the stage for insightful discussions with students, igniting a passionate exchange of ideas and perspectives. The pinnacle of the evening was an Austrian-German dinner, with a delicious array of gastronomic specialties, each reflecting the rich culinary traditions of these two countries.
Saturday, 4 November was a day of continued exploration and fun, as a German Language Crash Course, in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut, offered students an opportunity to delve into the German language and culture. In the evening, an informal beer pong tournament with students added a touch of friendly competition and laughter to the mix.
SAPDO extends its congratulations to the students for creating an atmosphere of genuine cultural exchange and shared experiences throughout these events. The celebration of cultures is a reminder of the beauty and richness that diversity brings to our community, and it is an endeavour worth celebrating.