"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever" – with this quote from Mahatma Gandhi, the Rector of Warsaw University of Technology, Prof. Krzysztof Zaremba, concluded his speech inaugurating the new academic year.

The beginning of October is always a special time in university life, and this year was no exception. On October 1st, students, doctoral students, and staff of WUT, as well as invited guests including representatives of government, local authorities, the world of education, higher education, science, business, clergy, alumni, and friends of the university, gathered in the Main Hall of our Main Building. All of this was to collectively and ceremoniously begin the 2024/2025 academic year.

Investment in science

"This is the first inauguration which marks a new term for our university," stated Prof. Krzysztof Zaremba, WUT Rector, in his address. "Thanks to the community’s decision, I have the privilege of continuing as Rector for another four years, alongside the same dedicated team of Vice-Rectors who have worked tirelessly with me over the past term".

"A transition like this always prompts reflections," the Rector observed. "What was the last term like? Did we accomplish everything we had set out to? If not, what was left undone, and why? Perhaps it's time to revise some goals and assumptions? Absolutely! But how did this term go? I don't need to answer that question – as you all know it was an extraordinarily challenging time".

Prof. Zaremba referenced the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and inflation, expressing gratitude to everyone who helped WUT continue its mission despite these difficulties.

"The new term, in my view, is not simply a second term for the same team, denoting a continuation of what we have done so far," said the Rector. "On the contrary, I’ve personally dubbed the plan for the future as Term 2.0, 4.0, or 5.0. We don't need more organizational adjustments; what we need are fresh developmental impulses and far bolder actions than in the first term. Our goal is to take a much more dynamic role in shaping a knowledge-based economy and a knowledge-driven society".

Prof. Krzysztof Zaremba explained that this included, among other things, defining research priorities, establishing a new paradigm for student education, and revising the investment policy.

"The technological revolution is unfolding at an incredible pace," the Rector emphasized. "We have no choice but to adapt evolutionarily to these new challenges and circumstances. Additionally, we carry a significant responsibility, as many of the world's threats arise from unreflective technological development. As engineers and researchers, we have a substantial debt to repay to the society. We recognize that the solution to ineffective technological solutions lies in implementing effective solutions, and that must be our primary objective".

Is the Warsaw University of Technology capable of playing a role in the effort to save and repair the world? For Prof. Zaremba, the answer is self-evident – absolutely so! He mentioned examples of initiatives and projects being undertaken at our university in fields such as climate, energy, health, the circular economy, defense, microelectronics, and particle physics…

"We can be a powerful ally in addressing the challenges facing our civilization," the Rector stated. "And we are not alone; there are many excellent universities in Poland, not just technical ones. These institutions can assist us in building a better and safer future. We have the potential to be an even stronger ally, but we require support from decision-makers. I hope we can cultivate an understanding within society and among policymakers that every zloty invested in science is an investment, not merely an expense".

What specific actions does Prof. Zaremba propose should be taken in this regard?

"First and foremost, let’s invest in science – it will always pay off. Second, we need to eliminate certain paralyzing constraints on researchers, such as public procurement procedures. We earnestly ask for your support; trust us, and we won’t waste the funding. Third, we must increase the risk appetite and tolerance within funding institutions. Only by allowing for risky projects can we achieve groundbreaking discoveries".

"I doubt I need to convince anyone that universities are shaping the future not only of our country but of the entire world," the Rector emphasized. "It is crucial for our society to finally acknowledge this reality".

Prof. Zaremba also addressed the first-year students, congratulating them on choosing to remain in Poland and deciding to study at the Warsaw University of Technology.

"I'm talking about a university that will become your home for several years, and about challenges that are, in fact, more for you than for us," he said. "If you take advantage of the opportunities we offer, take it from me, the world will open up to you. The best years of your life lie ahead. You may not believe it yet, but I’m sure everyone here will confirm that. Make the most of these years".

Important words from the invited guests

On the occasion of the academic year inauguration, we received many congratulations and well-wishes. A letter from the President of Poland, Andrzej Duda, was read by his social advisor, Alvin Gajadhur.

"Every university, polytechnic, academy, and higher education institution in Poland faces challenges today due to technological advancements, social transformations, and market expectations that we cannot overlook," wrote the President of Poland. "However, regardless of the circumstances and conditions in which you carry out your scientific activity, the essence of this mission remains unchanged: it is the well-being of humanity. The question of the implications of researchers' inquiries should accompany the efforts of both first-year students and distinguished authorities, as every undertaking within the realm of study and research carries practical, social, ethical, and moral consequences".

Dariusz Wieczorek, The Minister of Science, expressed his admiration for the numerous successes of the Warsaw University of Technology and thanked the institution for its achievements.

"You could say that this is music to my ears; to the ears of the Minister of Science, when I hear about the collaboration between science and business; when I hear about the increase in funding for research and development, and when I hear about good educational conditions for students and doctoral students—this is what it’s all about," he said.

"On our part, you can rest assured that, first and foremost, the dialogue with the academic community has been restored," he added. "Everything that is happening and all the challenges we face must be addressed collaboratively. At times, this may involve disagreements and differing opinions, but that is essential, as the academic community must set an example of honest, transparent, and constructive debate—without insults or invective—while actively seeking solutions. Ultimately, compromise is crucial in all of this, including compromise on funding for research, development, and Polish science, because I’m sure that no one in this room needs convincing that this is a worthwhile investment".

Katarzyna Lubnauer, the Deputy Minister of Education, delivered a letter from Minister Barbara Nowacka to the Rector. She spoke about how the future belongs to those who can think analytically and emphasized the importance of education in this area.

"We are absolutely convinced that teaching natural sciences and fostering analytical thinking – which is fundamental to mathematics – is one of the key responsibilities of Polish education," emphasized Katarzyna Lubnauer. "Therefore, there is no reason to fear subjects like physics, chemistry, or any other natural science, as we aim to strengthen these disciplines in Polish schools. Furthermore, our collaboration with the Warsaw University of Technology on utilizing artificial intelligence in mathematics education exemplifies this initiative".

Mariusz Frankowski, the Mazovian Voivode, congratulated the students on their excellent choice of educational institution.

"This is where, side by side with outstanding researchers and educators, you will confront the challenges of a rapidly changing world," he said. "Evolving technology, the development of artificial intelligence, and climate challenges are just some of the issues that will require your attention, creativity, and commitment. There is no better place to gain knowledge and develop your skills than the Warsaw University of Technology – a university that has always been and continues to be at the forefront of scientific and technological progress".

Elżbieta Kozubek, Director of the Mazovian Office of Regional Planning, represented Adam Struzik, the Marshal of the Mazovian Voivodeship.

"In today’s diverse and chaotic world, it is not artificial intelligence that can teach us; rather, it is the emerging star from that chaos, which can be a book," she emphasized. "This is why this book is essential—having a strong foundation necessitates reading textbooks that help make sense of reality".

Elżbieta Kozubek also read a letter from the Marshal of the Mazovian Voivodeship.

"It is thanks to the efforts of the authorities and the academic teachers that Warsaw University of Technology is a place where pioneering research, projects, and solutions are born, facilitating our comprehensive understanding of the world around us," wrote Marshal Adam Struzik. "Your inventions, specialized equipment, and innovative systems address everyday problems and greatly enhance the functioning of society. Thank you for your invaluable contribution to educating future generations of students, inspiring them in their scientific pursuits, and fostering their logical thinking skills".

A letter from the Mayor of Warsaw, Rafał Trzaskowski, was read by Maciej Fijałkowski, the Secretary of the City.

"Warsaw University of Technology, as one of the most prestigious universities in Poland, has long played a key role in shaping modern technological thought and preparing leaders, researchers, and engineers who effectively translate theoretical knowledge into practical solutions," wrote Rafał Trzaskowski. "Their impact on the development of the city's infrastructure and innovative technologies is invaluable, both domestically and internationally. Warsaw, as the central academic hub of Central and Eastern Europe, draws from the wealth of knowledge, research, and projects conducted at Warsaw University of Technology".

In his letter, President Trzaskowski expressed his gratitude for the collaboration with our university and expressed hope that Warsaw University of Technology would play an active role in developing the city's strategy for 2040.

Welcome, new students and doctoral students

A key event during the inauguration is always the matriculation ceremony, which marks the official admission to university. This year was no exception. First, representatives of the new students from all faculties and the WUT College took the academic oath, and then each person received congratulations and diplomas from the hands of the Rector of our university.

"The only limit to your development is your imagination," said Rafał Pyżalski, President of the Students' Union at WUT, as he addressed the new students, sharing examples of the exciting and diverse experiences they can have at the university. "Engaging in extracurricular activities will be a crucial differentiator in the job market, helping you stand out among a sea of candidates".

"Be ready to help others, but don't be afraid to ask for help yourself," he added. "In times when everything is within reach, it is precisely this willingness to reach out that will be our greatest strength".

"Studying at University is by no means a race; it's about the people you meet along the way and the opportunities you seize," emphasized Rafał Pyżalski.

"Doctoral students at Warsaw University of Technology are the driving force behind the innovative research that defines the scientific DNA of our university," emphasized Julia Kuczak, President of the Doctoral Students Council of the Warsaw University of Technology, in her speech. "We are engaged in projects that tackle the most pressing challenges of the modern world. In our laboratories and research teams, as well as during informal meetings and discussions outside of regular hours, we cultivate ideas that have the potential to transform reality".

"Warsaw University of Technology is not just about modern infrastructure and access to laboratories; it is primarily a space for collaboration where everyone can find their place," emphasized Julia Kuczak.

What does AI really know and how?

The first lecture of the new academic year, titled “Explainable artificial intelligence: from methods to new insights," was delivered by Prof. Wojciech Samek.

"It’s not only important to work on new, better, and larger AI models, but we must also develop methods that provide insight into how artificial intelligence operates, and allow us to better understand what it is truly learning,” said Prof. Wojciech Samek.

He provided examples of areas where artificial intelligence is rapidly advancing and is often used with positive results. These include video compression, biotechnology, materials science, and chatbots.

Prof. Samek also demonstrated that AI can provide inaccurate answers. When asked if there are cases of implanting a subcutaneous defibrillator immediately after heart surgery and requested to provide sources, ChatGPT cited publications that, as it turns out, do not exist.

"Just as engineers understand and test every screw and subsystem in an airplane, we too must develop methods to comprehend the role and test every neuron and subnetwork in our artificial intelligence models," said Prof. Samek, adding that explainability can aid in analyzing AI systems and building trust in them.

Ready for challenges

We wish to thank everyone for attending the inauguration of the 2024/2025 academic year (both in person and virtually), as well as for the well-wishes and congratulations. May these kind words accompany us in the coming months. We hope this will be a good year for the Warsaw University of Technology and all Polish universities. Vivat Academia!