Wroclaw Medical University experts at the 34th Economic Forum in Karpacz
Representatives of Wroclaw Medical University took part in the 34th Economic Forum in Karpacz, engaging in discussions on innovation, academic autonomy, and public health. Their presence highlighted the university’s active role in the nationwide debate on the future of healthcare and medical education.
Often referred to as the “Polish Davos,” the Economic Forum was held on 2–4 September 2025. It is one of the most important public policy events in Central and Eastern Europe, bringing together thousands of participants from politics, business, academia, media, and civil society. An increasingly important part of the Forum is the Health Care Forum, which serves as a platform for debating the future of healthcare systems, medical innovations, and public health challenges.
Key panels with UMW experts:
September 3 – Rector Prof. Piotr Ponikowski spoke in a panel organized by the Medical Research Agency: “Modern therapies within reach – can Poland compete more effectively in the global race for innovation thanks to systemic changes in clinical research?” The discussion explored Poland’s role in the global medical innovation ecosystem and how systemic reforms can accelerate the development of breakthrough therapies, such as gene and immunological treatments.
September 4 – Vice-Rector for Students and Education Prof. Agnieszka Piwowar joined the panel “Autonomy of medical universities – self-determination or a role imposed?” together with representatives of medical universities from across Poland. On the same day, she also took part in the debate “The medical university of tomorrow. AI in education and medicine, cooperation with industry, consolidation of clinical hospitals, professionalism (ethics and communication in education).”
September 3 – Vice-Rector for Internationalization and initiator of the UMW campaign #nabieraMYodwagi, Prof. Marzena Dominiak, participated in the panel “Let’s Be Healthy.” The debate, moderated by science journalist Rafał Motriuk, focused on the global obesity epidemic, its causes and consequences, and ways to counter lifestyle-related diseases through preventive healthcare and responsible health policies. Experts from the National Institute of Oncology, Dresden University, and the Wrocław City Council also took part.
Medical Discovery Centre – preview at the Forum
Alongside panel discussions, the university presented its new initiative – the Medical Discovery Centre, designed as a unique national space for science popularization and dialogue about the future of medicine.
The mini-exhibition, titled #VaccineAgainstDisinformation, displayed three anatomical specimens from the UMW Museum of Forensic Medicine – a larynx with trachea, a liver, and lungs damaged by infectious diseases – juxtaposed with holographic images of healthy organs. This striking contrast reminded visitors of the crucial role vaccinations have played for over 200 years in saving millions of lives.
“Science and everyday life should intertwine,” emphasized Wioletta Samborska, Director of the Medical Discovery Centre. “The Economic Forum in Karpacz was an excellent opportunity to present our vision to representatives of politics, business, and academia, and to invite them to co-create this socially important project.”
A voice for Lower Silesia in the national debate
The presence of Wroclaw Medical University experts at the Economic Forum was not only an opportunity to showcase the institution but also to promote Lower Silesia as a region of innovation and modern medicine. The university presented itself as both an influential voice in the healthcare debate and an institution that connects scientific research with clinical practice, education, and public engagement.
