Polish Science Day is celebrated annually on February 19—the birthday of Nicolaus Copernicus.
The year 2026 marks the 553rd anniversary of his birth, making this year’s celebrations particularly symbolic. It was Copernicus—an outstanding astronomer—who revolutionized our understanding of the universe by proving that the Earth orbits the Sun, and not the other way around. His intellectual courage changed the course of scientific history. Polish Science Day is now celebrated as a holiday:
- of knowledge,
- courage,
- discovery.
This holiday was established in 2020 as a tribute to Polish scientists and their contribution to the development of global science. On this day, scientific events, conferences, lectures, workshops, and award ceremonies honoring the most outstanding researchers are held throughout the country. It is a time when we recognize the power of knowledge, innovation, and dedicated research.
Women in Science – A Force That Changes the World
On Polish Science Day, we also wish to highlight the role of women—scientists, discoverers, and researchers—who, despite numerous historical barriers, have had and continue to have a tremendous impact on the development of civilization.
A symbol of this strength is undoubtedly Maria Skłodowska-Curie—a two-time Nobel Prize laureate, a pioneer in the study of radioactivity, and the discoverer of polonium and radium. Her determination, perseverance, and courage in breaking the mold made her one of the most outstanding figures in the history of science. She was not only a brilliant researcher but also proof that talent and passion have no gender.
Skłodowska-Curie’s story reminds us of the importance of:
- women’s education,
- equal educational and professional opportunities,
- access to skills development.
For decades, women had to fight for the right to study, conduct research, or hold academic positions. Today, although much has changed, further changes are still needed.
Systemic measures to support women in science are still needed, for example through training and workshops.
Women’s education—an investment in the nation’s future
It is widely recognized that a strong nation is a knowledge-based nation. An innovative economy, technological development, effective healthcare, and the energy transition—all these areas require competent male and female specialists.
That is why the following are so important:
- equal opportunities in access to education,
- scholarship programs for women,
- support and mentoring programs for women,
- training and workshops to develop soft skills for women,
- scientific and technological training,
- building an environment conducive to talent development regardless of gender,
- networking.
Isn’t it obvious that every woman should have the space and support to pursue her passions in her immediate environment? It is, but such opportunities don’t always exist. Meanwhile, every woman should also have the opportunity to improve her qualifications and pursue her professional ambitions in a supportive environment.
Knowledge as the Foundation of a Nation’s Strength
Polish Science Day reminds us that knowledge is the strength of a nation. It builds the economy’s competitiveness, strengthens security, and allows society to consciously shape the future.
For this reason, the work of organizations supporting skills development is so incredibly important. The initiatives of the OliEdu Civic Education Foundation in the area of training and workshops for women make a tangible contribution to developing their soft skills, and, as a result, to strengthening their position in the labor market, developing their talents, and building a society based on knowledge and innovation.
In the spirit of Copernicus and Skłodowska-Curie, it is worth remembering that the courage to think and access to education can change the world.
We must be aware that by investing in the development of women, we are investing in the development of the entire country.
February 19 is not just a date on the calendar. It is a reminder that the future begins with education.
