Contents

University news 2 Merentibus for the University of Jena 4 Hungary’s President visits JU 4 Opening of the Centre for Emergency Medicine 5 German-Jewish Culture Conference 6 Conference of Polish Germanists International relations 7 Jagiellonian University wins the Polish ranking 20 Collaboration with Al Rai Centre for Research in Jordan 20 Visits from Oman 21 Agreement with the University of Haifa 21 Polish Days in Odessa 22 IRUN meeting in Poitiers 23 IRUN immunology workshop

Features 8 University Day – 649th anniversary

Student life 24 Graduation in Collegium Medicum 24 Medical Development in Europe 26 Peruvian contrasts and studies in Lima 27 Juwenalia and Dragon Boat Race 29 Festival of Science ‘Faces of water’

8 Optimising Professional Translator Training 9 The economic aspects of the Arab Spring. EU’s new partnership and strategy 16 Indology and Days of India at JU 18 Polish-French laboratory and new developments in the Department of Medical Biotechnology

No. 50 A. Wojnar

Prof. Dicke handing the replica of Döbereiner’s lamp to Prof. Nowak and Prof. Stochel MERENTIBUS FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF JENA

n the occasion of the 50th anniversary of co- the agreement of scientifi c co-operation was renewed on 8 operation between the Jagiellonian University and the April 1992. On 13 January 1996 an annex to the agreement OFriedrich-Schiller University Jena, Germany, during a embracing the medical faculties was signed. Scholarships ceremonial session on 8 April 2013, the Jagiellonian University for semester stays for four students from both universities Senate conferred its highest distinction for institutions ‘Medal were added. The student exchange was also realised within Merentibus’ to the University of Jena. the Socrates/Erasmus programme from 2006 in the following The celebration was held in the aula of Collegium Maius. fi elds: history, Polish studies, German Philology, English After the University Choir sang the hymn ‘Gaude Mater studies, physics, sociology, political sciences and pedagogy. Polonia’ JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak opened the solemn In 1992 a protocol to the general agreement concerning the session, welcoming all guests, especially the Rector of the collaboration between the JU and “Studentenwerk” in Jena University of Jena Prof. Klaus Dicke, the Consul of the was signed. It aimed at supporting student meetings, cultural Federal Republic of Germany in Kraków Dr. Werner Köhler, exchange and exchange of experiences between the social the deans, academics and students. The laudatory speech units of both universities. Within this framework the JU Choir was delivered by Prof. Zbigniew Sojka from the Faculty of performed in Jena in 1996 and the Jena Choir (consisting of 52 Chemistry. He stressed the long and fruitful collaboration, singers) came to Kraków in 1997. Within the 50 years of co- abounding with many initiatives and projects, as well as operation the exchange embraced hundreds of scientists and friendly relationships. The agreement included the exchange students of the Jagiellonian University. of scientists and students based on working programmes, After Prof. Grażyna Stochel, the Dean of the Faculty of embracing organic chemistry and biochemistry, physics, Chemistry, had read the Latin text of the diploma, the medal archaeology, pedagogy, psychology, political sciences, and the Latin text in a special tube was handed to Rector Prof. law, history, philosophy, English philology and Germanic Dicke. Then Prof. Stochel pinned an epitogium to Prof. Dicke’s philology, Polish studies, Slavonic studies, zoology, gown. linguistics, mathematics, economics, anthropology, history In his address on behalf of the Friedrich-Schiller University of art and collaboration between university libraries. During of Jena Prof. Dicke thanked Rector Nowak, the Faculty of the martial law (1981-83) the University of Jena sent material Chemistry and the Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Applied goods (paper, chemicals, etc.). Although the University of Computer Science for the distinction. ‘With this distinction Jena was reorganised after the unifi cation of Germany in 1989 you have honoured all those who have collaborated since 23

2 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 March 1962 when the agreement between our universities was signed. […] These 50 years of collaboration between our

universities left clear traces in Jena. Reading numerous reports A. Wojnar of our scientists’ research stays in Kraków and the stays of the guests from Kraków in Jena, I could see that our scientifi c collaboration did not only yield measurable fruit but fi rst of all, the German and Polish scientists could get to know one another, that their friendship and neighbourly relationships between Germany and Poland, as well as the regions of Małopolska and Thuringia – being fully aware of the historical ballast – could be so shaped as to successfully support the European reality,’ Rector Dicke said. He also mentioned the involvement of the Kraków and Jena chemists, especially Professor emeritus Helga Dunken from Jena who could not be present at the ceremony and sent a special letter thanking all her colleagues from the JU Faculty of Chemistry: Prof. Bielański, Prof. Dyrek, Prof. Sojka, Prof. Nalewajski, Prof. Najbar, Prof. Brocławicki et al. Additionally, Prof. Dicke informed about future projects: the Alexander Brückner centre for Polish Studies, in collaboration between Jena, Kraków and Halle-Wittenberg, and a Master’s programme of Polish studies at the University of Jena. At the end of his speech Prof. Dicke handed Prof. Nowak a special gift for the JU Museum, namely a replica of the platinum lighter (known as Döbereiner’s lamp), which was constructed in Jena in 1823 by the Jena chemist Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner and which was sold until the end of the 19th century. Currently, a limited number of the replicas are made. ‘May the lighter be a symbol of numerous ‘ignitions,’ which our collaboration has experienced for 50 years and will experience in the next 50 years – this is my hope. Collaboratio nostra vivat, crescat, fl oreat!’ Prof. Dicke concluded. The medal Merentibus was awarded to the Friedrich- Schiller University Jena on the basis of the motion of the JU Senate of 27 June 2012, which reads, The Senate of the Jagiellonian University decided to confer the Medal Merentibus to the Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, the fi rst foreign university that signed an agreement of Prof. Dicke entering the aula scientifi c co-operation with the Jagiellonian University after World War II, for 50 years of collaboration and numerous - wide scope of scientifi c and didactic collaboration, embracing merits of the University of Jena in this area, including: exact sciences, the humanities, law and medicine; - collaboration between libraries, administrative units and student organisations; - staff exchange realised, for example with the PNTA professorship; - student exchange realised within the framework of scholarships of Thuringia, bilateral agreement and Socrates/Erasmus Programme; - courses of German conducted by Jena teachers at the JU; - numerous research projects using the complementary apparatus of both universities; - organisation of joint Polish-German conferences, symposia and seminars; - joint scientifi c periodicals and publications in international journals; - material help for the Jagiellonian University during the diffi cult period of martial law. A. Wojnar

The ceremony in the aula of Collegium Maius M. Kantor

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 3 86 students in Bachelor’s and Master’s Hungary’s President visits JU programmes. The head of the Chair is Ass. Prof. László Kálmán Nagy. The Chair collaborates with the Eötvös n offi cial delegation with encouraged students to study languages Loránd University in Budapest and the Hungary’s President János and go abroad. ‘It is worth studying at University of Pecs. Áder and the First Lady Anita an international university and getting A The library of the Chair in Hungarian Herczegh visited the Jagiellonian to know the world. You may also work Studies collects books and periodicals University on 23 March 2013. The abroad for a shorter or longer time but from the Hungarian, Estonian and Finnish delegation laid fl owers at the tablet never forget where your roots are.’ literatures, linguistics and history. At commemorating the Hungarian students János Áder was elected the President present it has over 4,000 items. Twice a studying at the JU in the 14th and of Hungary in May 2012. He studied year the library receives gifts from the the 15th centuries and at the tablet law at the Eötvös Loránd University in Balassi Bálint Institute in Budapest. commemorating of the victims of Budapest. He was a research fellow at M. Kantor Sonderaktion Krakau (1939) in front of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. In the aula of the JU Collegium Novum. the years 1998-2002, he Then in the aula President János Áder was the Speaker of the met students studying Hungarian at Hungarian Parliament. the Jagiellonian University. His short He is the co-founder speech focused on the Polish-Hungarian of the political Party relationships throughout history. He also Fidesz (Alliance of mentioned his visit to Poland in 1987, Young Democrats). In during the pilgrimage of John Paul II the years 2009-2012 he to his homeland. He went to Mass in was a member of the Gdańsk, accompanied by his friends: European Parliament. the present Prime Minister Viktor Orbán The Chair in and the Parliament Speaker László Hungarian Studies Kövér. ‘The Mass was an unforgettable was created at the experience. We felt that Poles have Jagiellonian University A. Wojnar the same deep longing for freedom as Faculty of Philology in In the Rector’s office we do,’ President Áder said. He also 1989. Currently, it has Opening of the Centre for Emergency Medicine and Traumatology

he Jagiellonian University anaesthesiology and intensive care ward. said Prof. Piotr Laidler, Vice-rector for Hospital has a new Centre A block with six operation theatres was Collegium Medicum. Tfor Emergency Medicine and placed on the next fl oor. A solemn opening of the centre took Traumatology with a helipad on the roof. The Centre is connected with a place on 20 June 2013. ‘This centre has It is the only modern medical centre of functional magnetic resonance building a twofold character and twofold value. It this kind in the Region of Małopolska. and the ward of neurosurgery and will serve science as well as inhabitants It has fi ve fl oors and its area is ca. 7,500 neurotraumatology as well as with the JU and tourists visiting Kraków. We have square metres. The Centre meets all the Department of Neurology in Botaniczna been waiting for this investment for a requirements of rescue medicine and the Street. Additionally, the centre can use long time,’ said Prof. Jacek Majchrowski, highest world standards. the modernised surgical infrastructure in the President of Kraków. On the ground fl oor, there is an another JU clinic. M. Kantor emergency ward with a large laboratory ‘The Jagiellonian as well as unique hyperbaric oxygen University Collegium chambers. Thanks to the possibility of Medicum is very glad using 100 % oxygen under maximal to have opened such a J. Sawicz pressure these very modern capsules, centre. It is a completely allow treating severe wounds, burnings new construction, not a or anaerobic infections. Using smaller renovated or adapted pressure the capsules can be used to treat building. It is a new patients with severe carbon monoxide beginning for further poisoning or decompression sickness. activities, for example The fi rst fl oor is occupied by a the construction of the general surgery and polytrauma ward new JU Hospital in and internal medicine ward. On the Kraków-Prokocim,’ third fl oor, there is a big (30 beds)

4 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 German-Jewish Culture: Infl uence, Diffusion and Transformation

n 11-13 June 2013, an international conference for young scholars ‘German-Jewish Culture: Infl uence, ODiffusion and Transformation’ took place in Kraków. The conference was organised by the Jagiellonian University Institute of Jewish Studies and the Commission for the History and Culture of Jews, the Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences (PAU) with the co-operation of the following institutions: Martin Buber Chair in Jewish Thought and Philosophy, Goethe A. Maślak-Maciejewska University, Frankfurt am Main, the Institute of History, Martin Luther University in Halle, the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lvov (Ukrainian; Lviv), the Polish Association for Jewish Studies and the Doctoral Students’ Association of the Jagiellonian University. The academic board of the conference included Prof. Maria Kłańska, Prof. Edward Dąbrowa, Prof. Christian Wiese, Prof. Juergen Heyde, Prof. Yaroslav Hrytsak, Ass. Prof. Magdalena Ruta and Ass. Prof. Michał Galas. The latter, who is currently the head of the Division of the History of Judaism and Jewish Literatures in the JU Institute of Jewish Studies, co-ordinated the whole conference. The conference participants came from all over the world: Austria, Germany, Israel, Poland, Ukraine, the United States and Rumania. Conference participants in the courtyard of the PAU Building The aim of the conference was to create a platform for in Sławkowska Street (conference venue) discussion for young scholars (PhD candidates and post- doctoral researchers) whose research concerns the complex in Galicia), art and literature (e.g. the oeuvres of Wilhelm problem of the infl uences of the German-Jewish culture in the Feldman and Hermann Menkes) as well as the social life territory of Galicia. The German-Jewish culture infl uenced and the development of the Jewish press in the territories of the Galician Jewry from the end of the 18th century. The Galicia. Particular attention was given to the longevity of the emergence and adoption of new infl uences led to the clash of German-Jewish culture in the Galician cities, such as Brody, the traditional and modern Jewish identities and cultures. The Drochobych, Boryslaw and Lvov. German-Jewish culture, later transformed and adapted to the The second part of the conference programme consisted of local conditions, prevailed in the territories of Galicia until the four lectures delivered by internationally recognised specialists outbreak of the Second World War and the Holocaust. in the fi eld of Galician Jewry. The lectures presented new The conference programme was divided into two parts. approaches and research on the German-Jewish culture in The fi rst consisted of six sessions during which the young Galicia. Among the speakers were the following: Dr Rachel scholars presented their research projects. The spectrum Manekin from the University of Maryland, who delivered of subjects included religious life (e.g. the Vienna rite, the an opening lecture entitled Galician Jews as ‘German’ and activities of the German rabbis in Galicia and Hasidism), the ‘Polish’: Shifting Meanings, Shifting Identities; Jürgen Heyde processes of assimilation and acculturation (e.g. the competing from the University of Halle, who presented the paper Out German and Polish infl uences within the Jewish communities of the Ghetto? Assimilation, Zionism and the Imagination of Jewish Historical Identity, and Dietlind Hüchtker, who is an affi liate of Geistwissenschaftliches Zentrum Geschichte und Kultur Ostmitteleuropas (Leipzig) and who spoke on Gender and Modernity in Galician Zionism. The lecture by Prof. Yaroslav Hrytsak from the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lvov entitled A Strange Case of Anti-Semitism: Ivan Franko and His Jews, was held in the Galicia Jewish Museum and was A. Maślak-Maciejewska open to the public. During the fi nal discussions, all the participants agreed that taking part in the conference was a very fruitful experience, which broadened their research approaches and understanding of the Jewish culture in Galicia. The organisers hope that a similar conference, bringing together scholars from all over the world dealing with the same subject of Galician Jewry, will be organised again in the future. Alicja Maślak-Maciejewska JU Institute of Jewish Studies

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 5 ‘Future of Germanic Studies’ CONFERENCE OF POLISH GERMANISTS

During the annual conference of the Association of Polish Germanists held at the Jagiellonian University scholars from Panel discussion Poland and abroad discussed the perspectives of Germanic studies in Poland.

n 10-12 May 2013, under the honorary patronage of the Jagiellonian University Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak, Othe annual conference of the Association of Polish Germanists was held. It was entitled ‘Einblicke in die deutsche Sprache, Kultur und Literatur. Forschungsparadigmen und Anwendungsbereiche’ [Insights to the German Language and the Culture and Literature of German Speaking Areas]. The sessions gathered ca. 150 specialists in the study of Germanic

language, literature and culture from Poland and abroad who Zarychta P. delivered almost 100 talks. The JU Institute of Germanic processes in the world. This year the organisers had two Philology was a co-organiser of the conference and the basic aims. On the one hand, the participants could present international partners were the Institute of German Language the results of the scientifi c investigations during the plenary and Literature of the University of Cologne and the Institute sessions and in particular sections (linguistics, literary studies, of Germanic Studies of the Martin Luther University in Halle- cultural studies and German studies) so that an analysis of the Wittenberg. present condition and scope of Germanic studies in Poland The opening of the conference took place in the aula of could be undertaken. On the other hand, within the framework the JU Collegium Novum on 10 May. The welcome speech of a separate panel discussion presided over by the honorary was given by Prof. Zofi a Berdychowska, the President of President of the Association Prof. Franciszek Grucza the the Association of Polish Germanists. She greeted all the conference participants were encouraged to discuss the present participants and introduced the theme of the conference. Then condition of Germanic investigations in Poland and abroad, the speeches were made by the JU Vice-Rector Prof. Maria especially in the context of the changes and reforms introduced Flis who stressed the signifi cance of research paradigms, the in higher education. The discussion concerned the changes and light of reason (E. Kant), dialogue as a strategy of cognition development of the paradigms and methodology of research and and diversity of scientifi c investigations. In turn, Prof. above all, the transformations resulting from the introduction Elżbieta Górska, the Dean of the JU Faculty of Philology, of the national qualifi cations, changes in the labour market focused on the 20 years of the relationships between the JU and the fading interest in learning German in elementary and and the Association of Polish Germanists. The other speakers secondary schools. It was stressed that on the one hand, the included Prof. Sławomira Kaleta-Wojtasik, the head of the changing academic reality creates problems, which have been JU Institute of Germanic Philology, Mr Dieter Reinl from the unknown until today, for example the increasing dissonance German Embassy in Warsaw, Mr Christophe Ceska from the between research and education according to the needs of General Consulate of the Republic of Austria in Kraków, Prof. the labour market or the necessity of adjusting the curricula Jianhua Zhu, the President of the International Association of of Germanic studies to the decreasing number of alumni of Germanists, Dr Ursula Paintner from the German Academic secondary schools who are fl uent in German. On the other Exchange Service (DAAD) and Prof. Jan Rydel from the hand, it was pointed out that the changes were challenges and Polish-German Science Foundation and the European Network occasions to seek innovations as well as new possibilities, Remembrance and Solidarity. which the greater programme autonomy of the institutes of The Association of Polish Germanists dedicates its annual German studies creates. Since the discussion panel evoked scientifi c conferences to the issues that are currently being much interest and vivid reactions, it was decided to dedicate discussed in the Germanic environments and the important a whole block of plenary sessions to these topics in the next annual conference to be held in Rzeszów. During the conference, special awards were also granted. In the aula of the JU Collegium Maius there was a ceremony of conferment of the Honorary Statuettes of the Association of Polish Germanists. The statuettes were awarded to the distinguished scholars Dr Gisela Janetzke from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and Prof. Heinz Vater from Cologne. Finally, let me add that the conference was supported by the German-Polish Science Foundation, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Ministry of Science and Higher Education as well as the Jagiellonian University and the German and Austrian Consulates General in Kraków. The opening ceremony Paweł Zarychta P. Zarychta P. JU Institute of Germanic Philology 6 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 JU WINS THE POLISH RANKING

Jagiellonian University named the best university in Poland for a second consecutive year

he Jagiellonian University won the 2013 university ‘The result achieved in the ranking list acknowledges the ranking created and published by the educational work of the whole university together with, as I always stress, T monthly ‘Perspektywy’ and the daily ‘Rzeczpospolita.’ our very talented students. Ranking lists always motivate us The second place was given to Warsaw University and the third but there is no need to exaggerate their role. Now we should to the Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. The papers aim analyse our results in particular categories, which will show us at evaluating the quality of schools and rank their educational our weaker sides. There is nothing more valuable than that,’ the offer according to internationally accepted criteria. The criteria JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak said. were defi ned by the Ranking Council, consisting of leading personalities in the world of Polish science and business. Best in medicine The 14th university ranking embraced 229 Polish It is worth stressing that the Collegium Medicum of the institutions of higher education (state and private). The 33 Jagiellonian University (embracing three medical faculties) won ranking criteria were divided into six groups: prestige, research in the category of medical institutions of higher education. potential, research effectiveness, innovativeness, studying Best in law In the 7th ranking of law faculties published on 25 June Perspektywy 2013 by another daily ‘Dziennik. Gazeta Prawna’ the JU Faculty of Law and Administration received the best result of all law faculties in Poland. It scored 110.5 out of 115 possible points and received the maximum score for the number of its alumni passing the legal training examination. As the daily writes the JU Faculty of Law and Administration has practically no weak points. It is the best in all of the four categories of the ranking: staff, quality and strength of teaching (imposing number of national and international conferences as well as agreements of co-operation with foreign universities), requirements for its students and the number of its alumni passing the legal training examination. This year as many as 71.78% of the JU alumni passed the examination. The second result From the left: Prof. A. Mania, Prof. W. Nowak, Prof. P. Laidler, Jagiellonian University was 61.72% – the University of Łódź, and the third 58.95% – the conditions and internationalisation. Each criterion embraces University of Warsaw. several elements. This result is very important from the perspective of law The Jagiellonian University enjoys the greatest prestige graduates since most law students want to do a career in legal among academic teachers and potential employers. It also professions. Their changes increase by several dozen per cent received maximum points for its research potential and if they graduate from the Jagiellonian University. effectiveness as well as publications and citations. Finally yet importantly, the library of the JU Faculty of The Jagiellonian University has also topped the ranking of Law and Administration contains 164,000 books and 27,000 the best faculties. Among the top ones were: foreign languages, periodicals as well as offers membership in the scientifi c linguistics, Polish studies, philosophy, history, knowledge of society ‘The Law Library Association,’ which was founded countries and regions, pedagogy and education, psychology 162 years ago. and pharmacy. M. Kantor

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 7 The tomb of King Władysław Jagiełło

A. Wojnar Optimising Professional Translator Training

n 15-16 February, 2013 the JU UNESCO Chair in O Translation and Intercultural Communication organised an international training session for UUniversityniversity DDay:ay: 6649th49th aanniversarynniversary translator trainers. It was part of the s the fi rst university in Poland, Małopolska, our country and Europe,’ project OPTIMALE: Optimising the Jagiellonian University in said the JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Professional Translator Training in a AKraków was chartered on 12 Nowak. He ended his speech by quoting Multilingual Europe realised within the May 1364. The Jagiellonian University a fragment of the Foundation Act, which framework of the European Commission celebrates its annual University Day, in his opinion is still valid, ‘May all Programme ‘Life Long Learning’ (LLP). which serves as a celebratory reminder citizens of not only our Kingdom and This project is also strictly connected of the University’s beginnings. neighbouring countries, but also from with the initiative of the European During this year’s celebrations, various parts of the world, who want to Master’s in Translation (EMT), which were held exceptionally on 13 gain this pearl of knowledge, come freely associating the best European schools May, the JU authorities laid fl owers on and safely to this city of Kraków.’ training translators. The JU UNESCO the tombs of the University’s founders The JU honorary degree was Chair has been the only Polish unit as in the Wawel Cathedral: King Casimir conferred on Prof. Andrzej Grzegorczyk, a member of the EMT network since its the Great, Queen Jadwiga and King who is the most outstanding follower very beginning. Władysław Jagiełło. of the tradition of the Polish School of The aim of the OPTIMALE project, A solemn meeting of the Senate was Logic. ‘Awarding Prof. Grzegorczyk is created in the autumn of 2010 at the held in Collegium Maius. ‘Today we an expression of homage to an eminent initiative of the French Université are celebrating the 649th anniversary scholar and humanist, who could Rennes 2, is to develop the method of of the foundation of the Jagiellonian combine very technical and specialist teaching in written translation in the University. The fact of the foundation research with a deep refl ection on the member states of the European Union ensured the material side and defi ned the fate and perspectives of contemporary and the countries-candidates to the EU, system of the higher school in Kraków. man as well as to a tireless fi ghter for both presently (Turkey, Macedonia, […] The long standing presence of the improvement of man’s condition,’ Croatia) and in the future (Ukraine). the University strengthened the Polish said Prof. Jan Hertrich-Woleński in his The OPTIMALE project embraces 70 national identity. Thanks to that no laudatory speech. universities from 31 countries. The historical storms erased the Polish The other honoured scientist was activities planned for the years 2010- nation from the European awareness. Prof. Jacek Klinowski. The JU Senate 2013 presume a wide analysis of the […] Today’s University is modern in conferred on him the title of ‘honorary translation market in all the countries all of its aspects, open to new branches professor’ following the motion of participating in the project and series of of sciences. Currently, with the EU the Faculty of Chemistry. ‘Prof. Jacek training sessions for translator trainers, countries, we are building the European Klinowski was one of the pioneers organised by selected research centres. Educational and Research Area. Science of the method of examining zeolite The Jagiellonian University organised and education are the foundations of the catalysts with the aid of a new – in those development of our city, the region of days – method of nuclear magnetic resonance (magic angle sample spinning). This method is commonly

applied in the investigations of solids M. Thelen

A. Wojnar and zeolites. Currently, Prof. Klinowski is an unquestionable authority in nuclear magnetic resonance. He published 501 papers, which infl uenced the scientifi c environment. Moreover, his educational achievements are great: 25 doctors out of whom 7 became professors and two are rectors of their universities,’ said Prof. Jerzy Datka in his laudatory speech. Dr Marcel Thelen from Hogeschool Zuyd, Łukasz Wspaniały Maastricht, Dr Daniel Linder from the University Prof. Klinowski and Prof. Grzegorczyk Offi ce of Information of Salamanca, Prof. Elisabeth Lavault-Olléon from the University of Grenoble 8 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 one of the four series of trainings dedicated to educating translator trainers. The two-day training session was opened by the Vice-Dean of the Jagiellonian University Faculty of Philology Ass. Prof. Władysław Witalisz, Prof. Elżbieta Tabakowska and Ass. Prof. Maria Piotrowska. In turn the sessions were conducted by Prof. Elisabeth Lavault-Olléon from the University of Grenoble, Dr Marcel Thelen from Hogeschool Zuyd in Maastricht and Dr Daniel Linder from the University of Salamanca. The plenary discussions were presided over by Dariusz Hanusiak, MA, and Krzysztof Łoboda, MA, from the UNESCO Chair. They aimed at exchanging experiences concerning the organisation of academic programmes educating translators, the ways of students’ assessment and the organisation of D. Hanusiak student internships. All the participants of the training The event gathered 25 guests from the Czech The Kraków’s training session was positively evaluated Republic, Denmark, France, Greece, Spain, Holland, Iceland, by both the participants and the steering committee of the Germany, Slovakia and Ukraine. The Polish academic OPTIMALE project. A further international collaboration for environment was represented by the Silesian University, the the years 2014–2020 will be discussed during the plenary Adam Mickiewicz University of Poznań and the University of conference of the project to be held in Rennes on 6-7 June 2013, Gdańsk. in which the Jagiellonian University will be represented. Dariusz Hanusiak UNESCO Chair

The Economic Aspects of the Arab Spring. The EU’s new partnership and strategy n old proverb says, ‘Freedom isn’t free.’ At the The fi rst three countries, which have already experienced present time, it is especially up-to-date in the context a change of government, face a new economic evolution. The Aof enormous costs of the so-called Arab Spring in responses of the Arab League, Arab Monetary Fund and other the years 2010-2011 (for example, this topic is developed by Inter-Arab organizations have been unsurprisingly quasi- Raed H. Charafedinne, Vice Governor of the Lebanese Central absent in this process. The absence of economic leadership in Bank).1 Arabic countries, which have witnessed revolutions the Middle East and the ineffi cient institutional functioning and confl icts, suffer many economic and social consequences. cause that the EU is one of key players in the Middle East Especially Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Syria have been a special political situation. Apart from of the Arab-Israeli confl ict, part of the EU’s policy as part of the European Neighbourhood a strategic priority for the EU is patronage of economic Policy (ENP) developed from the fi rst decade of the 21st development of this region. The Arab Spring of 2011 requires century.2 the EU’s businesses, governments and development agencies to rethink their economic approaches to the Middle East and North Africa to protect regional stability. 1 R. H. Charafeddine, The Economic and Financial Consequences of the Arab Spring, in: http://farescenter.tufts.edu/events/roundtables/ 2011Sep28.asp, accessed 15.11.2012; Economic perspectives on a) The Economic Roots of the Arab uprising the Arab Spring, in: http://www.kas.de/rpg/en/publications/30376/, Before presenting the economic impact of the Arabian accessed 23.11.2012; Arab Spring’s’ Negative Impact on the European Spring with its connection to the EU’s policy, it is useful to Economy, in: http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/03/arab-spring- costing-europe-billions-of-dollars/, accessed 12.11.2012; K. Kausch, evaluate the economic scene of the Arab World during the time Managed Succession and Stability in the Arab World, ‘FRIDE Working prior to the revolutions. The economic conditions of the vast Paper’ 2010, no. 104; F. Bicchi, Dilemmas of implementation: EU majority of Arab countries in 2011 meant high food and energy democracy assistance in the Mediterranean, in: ‘Democratization’ 17(2010), pp. 976-996. 2 About period before Arab Springs see: D. Mahncke, The Logic of Policy towards its Near Abroad, in: Dieter Mahncke & Sieglinde EU Neighborhood Policy, in: Dieter Mahncke & Sieglinde Gstöhl Gstöhl (ed.), Europe’s near abroad : promises and prospects of the (ed.), Europe’s near abroad : promises and prospects of the EU’s EU’s neighbourhood policy, Bruxelles 2008, pp. 96-97; 108-111; P. neighbourhood policy, Bruxelles 2008, pp. 19-46; M. Briens, Belarus Kratochvil, Constructivism and rationalism in EU external relations: and Libya: wider Europe’s Pariahs?, in: Dieter Mahncke & Sieglinde the case of the European neighbourhood policy, Baden-Baden 2010; Gstöhl (ed.), Europe’s near abroad : promises and prospects of the A. Alpago, Power and poverty: is the EU a new planet?, Frankfurt EU’s neighbourhood policy, Bruxelles 2008, pp. 213-234; R. Seitz, am Main 2010; L. Delcour, E. Tulmets, Pioneer Europe?: testing EU Exporting stability or importing problems? The EU’s Security foreign policy in the neighbourhood, Badan-Baden 2008.

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 9 prices, high unemployment rates among young people, weak that more than 70 percent of the unemployed were under the economic reforms, severe anomalies in wage structure, and age of 29 years. unclear measures to fi ght against corruption. Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Syria have not only grown As a consequence, poverty rates have increased in the past younger, they have also become more educated. Educational decade. For example in Egypt the proportion of population achievements of the Arab world in the 1960s were at one of living below the national poverty line rose from 16.7% in 2000 the lowest levels. During the 1980-2000 adult education rose to 22% in 2008, according to latest information from the World faster in the Middle East than in any other region of the world. Bank, while two-thirds of 112 countries analysed in Indicators The irony in the Middle East is that there is a huge gap between of the Labour Market reduced absolute poverty between the demography and economic structure. The economic structure is 1990s and 2000. However, the proportion of people living on simply unresponsive to the needs of growing young populations less than US$1 per day rose slightly from 1.8% in 2000 to 2% – unemployment is the biggest problem facing young people. in 2005, i.e. ca. 1,650,000 of 82,000,000 Egypt’s population. Labour markets in the Middle East cause another problem. Despite the use of food price subsidies and other government Namely, they are segmented at multiple levels – between interventions, a rise in global food prices was transmitted the public and private sectors, between formal and informal into domestic food prices in many the Middle East and North sectors and between national and non-national. Although the Africa countries. Food insecurity and unemployment has be an need for private sector development is widely recognised, it important factor sparking the Arab revolutions. is very diffi cult to fi nd solutions to dynamize it. However, the Over the last few decades, the Middle East has dramatically absence of a vibrant private sector is a typical regional failure, changed its demographic structure. In many Arab countries not only a failure on individual country. about three-quarters of the unemployed of young people are It is worth stressing one more Middle East problem: the under the age of 30. Therefore, it is necessary to take into state’s role in most Arab economies. In Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, consideration the fact of a greater female participation in the and Syria the state has been the most important actor, which labour force. These both demographic factors have greatly eclipsed all independent productive sectors. It would provide increased the number of people looking for jobs. The statistics essentials of life, such as food, energy, jobs creating the system show that, during the period of 1996-2006, labour force in the of subsidies and economic controls. This centralization and Middle East and North Africa has tripled resulting in one of bureaucratic system supported many uncompetitive practices the largest rates of youth unemployment in the world. This and the interests of governing coalitions. It was much more process was also observed in Jordan, according to Al-Manar enduring than the socialist and neo-liberal ideology and, 2010, Employment and Unemployment Survey, which attests, consequently, conserved governing coalition privileges.

1. World Bank country classifi cation: GNI per capita (current US$)

Source: Arab Spatial (IFPRI based on World Bank’s WDI)

The Middle East with a population of 350 million people Finally, Middle East economy suffered also in many cases does not function as one economic market, being one of the by sectarianism. Sectarian mentality has been provoked by most fragmented regions of the world in aspects of production, ideological rifts between Islamists and secularists, and between trade and economic relations. The lack of intra-Arab trade conservatives and liberals, as well as by religious divisions caused that few Middle East and North African countries between Sunnis and Shias, Muslims and Christians. Suspicions considered their neighbours as their natural trading partners. based on confessional divergences hindered progress of building the stabile economy.

10 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 The Arab Spring questioned the prevailing economic model – a leviathan state – which seams to be reaching its expiry date.* 2. The condition of Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Syria before Arab Spring according to G. Grin, The Arab Spring and the European Neighbourhood Policy**

TUNISIA EGYPT

Population: 10 million people - Population: 82 million people GDP per capita: 4,100 US$ - GDP per capita: 2,600 US$ GDP growth rate (average 2005-2010): 5.2% - GDP growth rate (average 2005-2010): 5.9% Unemployment rate: 14% - Unemployment rate: 9% Unemployment rate (young): 32% - Unemployment rate (young): 25% Exports to the EU (% of total exports): 79% - Exports to the EU (% of total exports): 29% Imports from the EU (% of total imports): 65% - Imports from the EU (% of total imports): 23%

LIBYA SYRIA

- Population: 6 million people - Population: 22 million people - GDP per capita: 10,900 US$ - GDP per capita: 2,600 US$ - GDP growth rate (average 2005-2010): 6% - GDP growth rate (average 2000-2007): 5.3% - 2nd producer of crude oil in Africa (after Nigeria) - Unemployment rate: 8% (20% according to independent estimates) - Unemployment rate (young): 18% - Exports to the EU (% of total exports): 44% - Imports from the EU (% of total imports): 25% b) The costs of Arab Spring caused by dismissals and the return of Tunisian migrant workers from Libya. As a result, the number of unemployed people In the euphoria generated by the downfall of the Tunisian increased to 700,000, compared with fewer than 500,000 at the and Egyptian dictators and the anxieties produced by the end of 2010, which means from 13-14% in 2010 to 17-18% uncertain fate of recent uprisings in Syria and Libya, it is easy in 2011. There appeared problems with increasing the public to lose sight of the underlying importance of the economic defi cit and the current account defi cit. Tunisia had to face a conditions facing the new republics that are emerging in the double disadvantage of a liquidity shortage and the high cost of Middle East. The economic problems are connected with external fi nance due to the decline of its sovereign rating. political uncertainty. In Tunisia, where democratic transitions are well under Arab Spring in Egypt multiplied economic problems way economy shrank markedly. For example in 2011, for the of the country. Ca. 1 million Egyptians have lost their jobs. fi rst time since 1986, Tunisia’s economy was reduced by 1.8 % Foreign investment fell from $6.4 billion in 2010 to a mere and that the riots may have cost 4% of GDP. $500 million in 2011. Living standards have been eroded by With the economic cost of the Arab Spring estimated at 5% double-digit infl ation in 2011 and food infl ation was more than of GDP, growth for 2011 was expected to range between 0 and 20% with a rising tendency. The low-income groups grew. 1% (According to the Ministry of Planning and International According to a national income threshold for overall poverty, Cooperation, expected GDP growth for 2011 was 0.2%). 40% of Egyptians were estimated to be poor in 2011. Egypt Before revolution tourism accounted ca. 6.5% of GDP, being faces similar problems as Tunisia does. Tourism collapsed by the largest provider of foreign exchange. In 2011 it declined almost half in the fi rst quarter of 2011, creating dramatically by more than 50%. Foreign direct investment (FDI) decreased deep consequences. Before revolution the tourism sector by 20% and more than 80 foreign companies left Tunisia. The employed two million people and generated a total income of situation in the labour market worsened markedly, which was $12 billion (5.3% of GDP) in 2010. The loss of tourism cost

* R. Adams, J. Page, Poverty, Inequality and Growth in Selected Publications Offi ce of the European Union, 2010; A. Sapir, Middle East and North Africa Countries, 1980 –2000, in: ‘World G.Zachmann, A European Mediterranean Economic Area to Kick- Development’ 31(2003) no. 12, pp. 2027– 2048; L. Anderson, Start Economic Development, in: S. Biscop, R. Balfour, M.Emerson Democracy in the Arab. (eds.), An Arab Springboard for EU Foreign Policy? Gent, Academia World: A Critique of the Political Culture Approach, in: R. Brynen, Press, 2012, pp. 37-47; A.Galal, J.-L. Reiffers, Towards a New Med B. Korany (ed.), Political Liberalization and Democratization in the Region: Achieving Fundamental Transitions, FEMISE Report on the Arab World, Colo 1995, 77-92; N. Ayubi, Over-Stating the Arab State, Euro-Mediterranean Partnership 2011, October 2011; C. Moore, London 1995; H. Springborg, Globalization and the Politics of Development in ** G. Grin, The Arab Spring and the European Neighbourhood Policy: the Middle East, Cambridge - New York, 2010, p. 149. Le Temps, An Economic Outlook, Geneva, 20.02.2012, pp. 2+4, 21.02.2012, pp. 1-3, 22.02.2012, pp. 1- in: http://www.fondation-pierredubois.ch/Papiers-d-actualite/ 3. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (ed.), The Military arabspring.html, accessed 22.l1.2012. These table have been compiled Balance 2012: The Annual Assessment of Global Military Capabilities by Author from the following sources: European Commission, and Defence Economics, Abingdon 2012, p. 504. Pocketbook on Euro-Mediterranean Statistics, Luxembourg,

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 11 Egypt about $1 billion a month during 2011. In Egypt 90% homes, schools, mosques, churches and hospitals – have been of the unemployed are young people (aged 15-24). Egypt is destroyed. However the compiling statistics presented by this also dependent on large income from its temporary workers organization are impossible to verify. in oil-rich states located in the region. Revolution reduced In countries that witnessed Arab Spring uprisings the income of 1.5 million Egyptians working in Libya. Egypt’s economy shrank which was observed in GDP losses, fi scal foreign reserves have declined from $36 billion in January to balance deterioration, depletion or exhaustion of foreign $28 billion in May 2011. The consequences of Arab Spring reserves, drying up of foreign investment, and enlarged current are painful for Egypt, the economy of which shrank by about account defi cits. According to the IMF, GDP losses in Libya, 3% in 2011. Factories worked reportedly at half capacity; Egypt, Tunisia, Syria, Yemen, and Bahrain reached for 2011 unemployment was offi cially at double-digit levels (up from alone at US$ ca 20.56 billion while the cost to public fi nance 9% in the last quarter of 2010 to nearly 12% in the fi rst quarter of the same countries were estimated at US$ 35.28 billion over of 2011), and the budget defi cit is expected to worsen, from the same period. 8.6% of GDP to around 11%. It is worth mentioning that Egypt stock market has declined by 25% and it had a growth rate of c) The hope in the future - The European Union’s 1% in 2011. As a consequence, Egypt needs economic aid to new partnership and strategy cover the shortfall in its budget over 2011-2014. Some authors estimated the losses from the Tahrir Square protests to be In the Arab countries, hard-headed realism is replacing the around 1.7 Billion US$. euphoria of the Middle East and North African revolutions. The confl ict in Libya stopped the production and export Economic issues, which were the main engine of the Arab of oil, the country’s main revenue source, which created Spring, are consequently the source of economic corrections signifi cant obstacles, such as a 41.8% contraction in real GDP and reforms topping priorities of these societies. in 2011.3 According to some sources Libya felt a contraction of The EU’s strategic response to the Arab Spring spreading in its economy after the civil war by more than 50%. Destructions the North Africa and the Middle East came as early as 8 March caused by the confl ict cost about 15 billion US$ and there was 2011, with the joint communication of the High Representative any Foreign direct investment at the end of the war. – Vice President Catherine Ashton and the Commission The fall of Syria’s economy is diffi cult to evaluate. From proposing A partnership for democracy and shared prosperity 2011, the country has suffered the weight of sanctions from with the Southern Mediterranean. the United States, European Union, the Arab League, and Political discourse appeared with the eruption of the Arab the regional power, Turkey. The revolution violence stopped Spring showing some directions of European soft power tourism and the economic squeeze has affected low-level policy and credibility of the UE as an actor in North Africa merchants and businesses. The value of the Syrian pound has and Middle East. It was clearly expressed by Štefan Füle: dropped 50% from 47 to the US$ to 71 to the US$, sparking a ‘Europe has a vital interest in a democratic, stable, prosperous, rise in prices that is straining Syrian budgets. Before the Syrian peaceful North Africa in its immediate neighbourhood. Europe uprising began in March 2011, the oil sector was a pillar of must and will rise to the challenge of supporting democratic Syria’s economy, with oil exports — mostly to Europe — transition in North Africa, as it did after the revolutions in bringing in $7-8 million per day. This income was source of $17 Eastern Europe in 1989 […]. In full co-operation with our billion in foreign reserves that the government possessed at the Southern partners, we can, we must and we will act swiftly and start of the Syrian revolution. According to Syria’s oil minister decisively to help shaping the new Southern Mediterranean. Sufi an Allaw, Syria lost about US$ 4 billion from March 2011 The European Parliament has a great responsibility to ensure to May 2012 as result of the international sanctions. that the EU adopts the policies and strengthens the instruments For the last decade, unemployment in Syria has been the necessary to meet this challenge. We know we can count on main problem in the region among the young. Economic experts your full support.’ estimated unemployment in Syria at 25% before uprising, then In reality, these historic political transitions have still the government own fi gures showed that unemployment was been under way and one of the most important aspects of only 11-13%. During the civil war unemployment is markedly transformation is the stabilization of the actions of investors growing. Infl ation and restriction caused that many workers and consumers who have been lately confronted with one lost half of their monthly salary. Only during the fi rst months enormous uncertainty. In Tunisia and Egypt, where the of the revolution, prices of basic food like rice and eggs have transition to democracy is relatively more advanced, political tripled, while cooking oil has doubled.4 Syrian GDP decreased uncertainty is undermining considerable pre-revolutionary by 2% in 2011. Syrian Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi said in economic achievements. October 2012 that the losses of Syrian economy from the The European Union has been revising its ‘neighbourhood ongoing rebel have cost the country about $34 billion.The policy’ in the hope that promotion of economic and political Syrian opposition estimates this loss at about $100 billion. reforms will bring greater integration with the EU. Recognizing London-based Syrian Network for Human Rights calculates in the seriousness of the economic challenges in Egypt, Tunisia a Sept. 28 report that 589,000 buildings – including residential and Libya the European Union prepares to address them constructively. It provides the international community with 3 Libya 2012, ‘African Economic Outlook 2012,’ in: http://www.afdb. an opportunity to engage the Arab world and to help foster org/fi leadmin/uploads/afdb/Documents/Publications/Libya%20Full an economic environment that is supportive of the political %20PDF%20Country%20Note.pdf, accessed 23.11.2012. transitions taking place. 4 Hugh Macleod, Syria struggles with crippled economy, Beirut, EU leaders expect that a transition of political systems in: http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/middle-east/ in countries witnessing revolutions has economic costs in 120313/syria-economy-currency-money-sanctions-uprising, accessed the short term, but in the longer term, it will create political 23.11.2012.

12 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 stability economic development5. The real problem of the post- and Shared Prosperity stresses ‘a stronger partnership with the Arab spring countries is the necessity to decrease of public people, with specifi c emphasis on support to civil society and defi cits that makes impossible to continue the simple practice on enhanced opportunities for exchanges and people-to-people of subsidizing jobs and basic food. Subsidies have a distorting contacts with a particular focus on the young.’ effect on the economy. The EU’s main offering involves three issues: money, access to markets and mobility. Credits and market access 3. Food and Fuel Subsidies as % of Government Current for Arab countries have been supported by the European Expenditure in Four Parliament and the European Council as a link between economy and democracy. ‘The Economist’ justifi es the new EGYPT TUNISIA policy as follows: ‘Policies should be better tailored for each neighbour. Europe cannot change geography, so it will have to 2002 4.6 4.1 deal with all the countries on its rim, democratic or autocratic. 2003 4.8 3.5 But in its circle of neighbours, it must always demonstrate that 2004 6.7 5.1 its best friends are the democrats.’ 2005 8.1 11.8 As far as some facts in the area of fi nance are concerned, 2006 27.4 13.6 short term increases in the EU’s aid to post-Arab Spring countries 2007 25.2 15.7 have been made possible with some budget reallocations. Thanks 2008 30.9 17.7 to new funds available, the amount allocated by the EU to the 2009 27.2 11.6 Middle East and North African countries will increase by 25% 2010 26.2 11.0 in 2012-2013. There have been created some new instruments to promote partnership, such as the ‘Spring programme,’ which North African Countries, Source: Albers and Peeters 2011, triggers reforms and economic growth. The European Investment Boxes 3 and 4. Bank will be allowed to lend more to the Middle East and North African countries. On the other hand, the European Bank for The Arab Spring dynamism inclined the European Reconstruction and Development will be allowed to take a Commission and the High Representative of the Union for more active role in these countries. The Commission and the Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to revamp ENP in their High Representative propose to increase funds for the Southern communiqués of March and May 2011. One of the main goals dimension of the European Neighbourhood Policy by 40%, of EU’s Partnership for Democracy and Shared Prosperity offering them to a total amount of 18 billion Euros for the years is to built ‘sustainable and inclusive growth and economic 2014-2020. In reality, this quasi ‘Marshall Plan’ for the Middle development, especially support to Small and Medium East and North Africa could be limited for the years 2014-2020, Enterprises (SMEs), vocational and educational training, taking into consideration fi nancial problems of the EU in the improving health and education systems and development next decade. of the poorer regions.’ Economic development is connected The EU’s policy towards Arab Spring countries brings with the idea of helping countries to establish democracy and high hopes for market liberalization, continuation of progress the rule of law, which, according to document Partnership towards free trade, extending liberalization to agricultural for Democracy and Shared Prosperity, means ‘democratic goods and services. Especially when it comes to free trade, the transformation and institution-building, with a particular focus European Commissioner Karel De Gucht stated that ‘economic on fundamental freedoms, constitutional reforms, reform of development without trade is completely impossible.’ That the judiciary and the fi ght against corruption.’ Socio-economic explains why the European Union has established the prospect problems in Arab Spring countries were closely connected of ‘deep and comprehensive free trade areas’ with many with demands for democratization in the Arab region. Such countries. Post-revolution Arab countries like Tunisia and demands infl uenced the political outlook of the Middle East Egypt will be in the fi rst group of countries benefi ting from and its relations with the EU. The Partnership for Democracy this new framework. Libya is preparing to receive it. Removal

4. Economic indicators in Libya, Egypt, Syria and Tunisia.

2011 Economic 2011 Freedom From Country GDP growth Unemployment CPI infl ation Freedom Score Corruption Score LIBYA 4.2 n/a 2.4 38,6 25 EGYPT 5.1 9.4 11.7 59.1 28 SYRIA 3.23 n/a 2.9 51.3 26 TUNISIA 3.69 14.2 3.8 58.5 42

Source: Regional Economic Outlook Update: Middle East and Central Asia (2011) – Regional Economic Outlook Update: Middle East and Central Asia, http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/reo/2012/mcd/eng/mreo0412.htm, accessed 23.11.2012.

5 A Partnership for Democracy and Shared Prosperity with the Southern Mediterranean, Joint Communication by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the European Commission, Brussels, 8th March 2011, COM 200(2011) p. 3 in: http:// ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/fule/docs/news/joint_communication-a_partnership_for_democracy_and_shared_prosperity_with_ south_med_en.pdf, accessed 21.11.2012.

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 13 of barriers in agriculture and in services will probably create would be the best-case scenario. It would be developed opposition from within the EU. The so called ‘long term under the auspices of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) prospect’ proposes a solution that the Middle East and North as a mechanism to revive trans-Mediterranean relations. It African countries could join together to form an equivalent would create an integrated union with a common market, of the European Economic Area (EEA) – an internal market following the European Economic Area (EEA) model, settling of the Union. From the critical point of view, the European current tensions and confl icts in the Euro-Med region and Economic Area as an economic theory generally considers emergencing of a tri-polar world (United States, China and such a solution to be positive on economic grounds. The main Euro-Med). Finally, the third scenario – ‘Blue transition – problem is that EEA countries not belonging to the EU will ‘Euro-Mediterranean alliance’’ would be considered as a looser have to sacrifi ce sovereignty for the sake of belonging to the integration with the EU and Northern Mediterranean countries European internal market. It seams to be unacceptable for the on the one hand, and Southern Mediterranean countries on the Middle East and North African countries, which do not have other. In this case, the EU enlargement policy would become the prospect of joining the EU in the future. obsolete as Southern Mediterranean countries do not join the Accounts of the toppled governments in Tunisia, Libya and EEA. However, they sign an Alliance Treaty with Europe under Egypt had been frozen by European banks and governments. a new UfM framework. Moreover, related countries and sub- Freezing billions of dollars in assets will be releases to get regions within the North and South would work in association back to post Arab Spring countries. The recovery process of towards the same aims of peace, security and sustainability, the frozen money will probably cause many tensions between but as distinct geographical regions in a multi-polar world. the new governments and Western countries. It would be likely that the current Arab-Israeli and Western The EU’s policy towards Syria is considered as controversial Sahara confl icts will be not resolved. by some countries. A very complex situation in Syria makes the 5. Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) country’s future uncertain. At the moment, a foreign intervention seems very unlikely and the civil war there destroys Syrian economy to an ever greater extent. The EU policy develops fi nancial and commercial sanctions against Syria, travel bans for dignitaries of the Syrian government, asset freezes, an arms and oil embargo and a suspension of cooperation programmes. The EU has also prohibited disbursements by the European Investment Bank (EIB) in connection with the existing loan agreements between Syria and the bank. It has also stopped the continuation of EIB technical assistance contracts for sovereign projects in Syria. The Council of the European Union has also denied access to the EU airports to all fl ights operated by Syrian Arab Airlines. Catherine Ashton, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, warns against the further militarisation of the Syrian confl ict. The EU politics explains the determination of the European It is still an open question if the Arab awakening was a Union to protect the Middle East region against the spill-over priority for European foreign policy in 2011. EU used active effects of the Syrian crisis in the neighbouring countries in diplomacy, special envoys, sanctions and military action but terms of security and stability. These sanctions are not accepted it seams to be a technocratic, and maybe a too short-sighted by great powers, such as Russia and China. response.6 There are some critics of the EU policy toward Arab Daniel Möckli, a researcher at the Center for Security Spring countries. For example, the MEDPRO (Mediterranean Studies (CSS) and head of its Strategic Trends Analysis Team Prospect) researchers, coordinated by the Centre for European at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, in his Policy Studies in Brussels, consider the EU´s answer to the Analysis in Security Policy, stresses that ‘The Arab awakening Arab Spring as ‘shy, centred on the short term and lacking a has been a painful reminder of how marginal the EU’s role in coherent vision.’ Miguel Angel Moratinos, the former Spanish many neighbouring countries still is. The revolts and revolutions foreign minister, presents a similar point of view, explaining that have shaken the MENA region mark the strategically most that Europe’s answer ‘comes late and is insuffi cient in political, relevant development in Europe’s neighbourhood since the economic and fi nancial terms.’ In MEDPRO publication Arab demise of the Soviet Union. Yet, sanctions aside, these events Springs spark rethink of EU Policy, there are three possible have unfolded with the EU largely as a bystander. Forging an scenarios of political and economic contexts in the mutual answer commensurate with the size of the challenge would relation between the EU and post-revolution Arab countries. have been a daunting task for the EU even at the best of times. The fi rst one, named ‘Red transition – Euro-Med region under Doing so at a time of its own weakness is simply beyond its threat’ is considered as the most disastrous scenario, in which reach. […] Moreover, even if the EU were in a position to give the EU would be unable to achieve cooperation in key sectors, MENA countries what they wanted, the latter might still turn i.e. agriculture, research and education, migration, security and down European assistance if tied to too many conditions.’7 energy. This case would be determined by mounting socio- economic diffi culties, political uncertainties and exacerbated 6 tensions, providing opportunities for terrorist organisations J. Vaďsse, H. Kundnani (eds.), European Foreign Policy Scorecard 2012, London 2012, p. 96. and radical movements to take hold. The second case, called 7 D. Möckli (ed.), Strategic Trends 2012: Key Developments in Global ‘Green transition – ‘Euro-Mediterranean common union’ Affairs, Zurich 2012, pp. 50-51.

14 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 Analysing the economic impact of the Arab Spring, the UE in large-scale public works, creating labour-intensive projects experts try to evaluate future prospects for the post-revolution that will help address the problem of rising unemployment. Arab countries. According to them, Tunisia possesses the most The international community, especially the European Union, favourable conditions for future development. The economic can help the Arab world launch and sustain such initiatives situation in Egypt is very diffi cult and it is even harder in in four ways: increasing the amount of promised fi nancial Libya and in Syria. In these countries changes will not just take assistance which would support a more effective long-term years, but probably decades. Libya and Syria are important oil job-creation strategy and boost the labour market in the short producing countries and it could bring them income helping in term, providing technical expertise to Arab policymakers on economic restructuring and progress. debt management, establishing a secure and predictable legal The most important factors for the future of the Middle and regulatory framework for public-private partnerships to East and North African countries are internal ones. Nowadays, undertake large-scale infrastructure projects and boosting the most diffi cult questions to answer are the fundamental growth and effi ciency mainly in the longer run. problems in which terms of stability will be established. They The positive element about the new EU´s policy towards are very important debates about democracy, the rule of law Arab countries is a wide perspective for action, which means a and human rights. great combination of many aspects. One of the biggest problems Faced with public revolts and EU suggestions, Arab is the EU´s weakness in competition with the Gulf Arab states, governments need a fundamental rethinking of the social which are top investors in North Africa, partially offsetting contract. The new Arab world needs to apply a new development a drop in Western investment because of economic crises in paradigm that is based on inclusive private sector. The EU´s role Europe and the United States. For example, Saudi food group is to strengthen attempts at economic integration, which have Savola bought out two Egyptian fi rms in late 2011. Nowadays, been frustrated by internal rivalries, dependence on external the big and powerful private sector in the Gulf is looking great powers and lack of the complementary production overseas, in the direction of post-Arab Spring countries. structures. The segmentation of Arab countries into separate The EU as the specifi c union, may not have the military geographic zones imposes a wide range of costs on the region power to stabilize Middle East and North African region, but cutting off local markets from each other. The promotion of it has useful economic and political tools. Some analytics regional economic integration between the Middle East and worry about the artifi cial promoting of democracy, which is North African countries would be a very positive policy to in Europe’s hands. What if post-Arab Spring countries do not conduct. democratise and the Arab spring turns to winter? Europe dreams The rapid economic deterioration across the region, in addition about energy security, fi ghting terrorism, managing migration to high expectations raised by the onset of political transition, is etc. After the fall of the old Arab allies, the stability of the EU creating a new sense of urgency among the emerging political is partially questioned. Democracy offers a possibility of wide actors to develop more detailed economic programs and to spreading the radical Islam. address the economic grievances of their populations. Islamists’ The above mentioned aspects have made Arab revolutions discourse centred previously on political themes, highlighting increasingly diffi cult for the EU. The new governments are not issues related to political participation, inclusiveness, and domaine réservé for the European Union, and the EU is not the democratic reforms. However, in recent election campaigns, the only model and the only path for socio-economic development rhetoric has shifted from politics to economics. of the Middle East and North Africa.8 New governments of The UE´s infl uences are shown in economic programs of Arab countries, connected with radical Islamic groups, will the emerging political players, including the Islamist parties, probably act more independently in the future. In this context, who stress the necessity of a large market, emphasize the role the EU’s offers of an ‘enlargement neighbourhood’ could be of the private sector in driving economic growth, and recognize at least questioned or, even more probably, rejected. However, the need to attract foreign capital. In Tunisia and Egypt, the changes in the geopolitical and regional contexts of the Middle political Islamists have guaranteed that the well developed East and the North Africa inspire the EU’s politicians to act in an tourism sector will not be subjected to restrictions based on even more complex way to protect the EU´s regional infl uence. Islamic law (sharia). In the context of globalization and modern It is worth noting that despite the unexpected magnitude of economic interactions, the Islamists have anticipated elements these uprisings, the EU has been quick to recognize the of new economic programs accepting the role of international challenges of the political and economic transition faced by institutions. the region as a whole. It has also recognized the need to adopt Many of the Islamist parties have understood the limited a new approach to relations with its Southern neighbours. As time of their political activity. Before the people vote again, a consequence, the EU tries to fi nd adequate actions resulting during a relatively short electoral cycle they must create jobs from deep analysis. This analysis indicates a necessity of a and improve the economic situation. They know that popular combinatorial method indeed, fl exibility and capacity to assess dissatisfaction with incumbent regimes had led to the Arab complex multidimensional and effective policy. revolts, and this scenario could be repeated. The new Arab Krzysztof Kościelniak governments must face up to a serious challenge with respect JU Institute of Middle and Far East Studies to managing high expectations connected with income, and standards of living. Cooperation with the UE can help new Arab governments take steps toward managing and tempering 8 R. Balfour, The Transformation of the Union for the Mediterranean, high public expectations. According to Sinan Ülgen, a visiting in: ‘Mediterranean Politics.’ 14(2009), pp. 99-105; T. Behr, What scholar at Carnegie Europe in Brussels, there is only one Future for the Union for the Mediterranean?, in: ‘FIIA Comment’ 1(2010); T. Behr, The European Union’s Mediterranean Policies after practical economic recipe for short-term job creation in the the Arab Spring: Can the Leopard Change its Spots?, in: ‘Annuaire Middle East and North Africa. Namely, it involves investments Français des Relations Internationales’

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 15 INDOLOGY AND DAYS OF INDIA AT JU

ndology has the longest history Cultures’ to inaugurate the new academic among the departments at the year. The fi rst event of the cycle was IJagiellonian University Institute the show of the fi lm ‘Citrańjali. Stefan of Oriental Studies. Lectures in Norblin in India’ on 25 October in the Sanskrit have been held here since Museum of Japanese Art and Technology the 1860s and a regular chair for Manggha and a meeting with the fi lm Sanskrit was established in 1893. The director Małgorzata Skiba. The fi lm modern Department of Indology offers depicts the story of the Polish painter professional education in civilisations, Stefan Norblin (1892-1952), who – like cultures and languages of South Asia, thousands of Polish immigrants – found and particularly so in the linguistic areas shelter in India during World War II. of Sanskrit, Hindi, Urdu (soon also in Norblin owed to India a new chapter Tamil and Malayalam), which transcend of his artistic life. He made numerous political boundaries of modern India. paintings and murals. He also designed A wide and varied range of subjects palace interiors in the style of art déco pertaining to and expressed in those for the local aristocracy. The show was languages fall within the scope of our followed by an interesting discussion education and research programmes: with Małgorzata Skiba, the fi lm operator E. Dębicka-Borek literary and religious traditions, the Kumar Subramaniyan and the President world of manuscripts written on palm of the Polish Art and Culture Foundation Suketu Mehta leaves as well as modern topics in in San Francisco, Caria Tomczykowska. literary criticism, textual and linguistic The event gathered ca. 100 participants: Right: A collection of essays, Making studies, systems of ancient knowledge, students and staff of the Department a Difference: Feminist Publishing in history as well as contemporary social of Indology, and from other JU units, the South, Women and Right Wing and economic problems of South Asia, e.g. Institute of History of Art. There Movements: Indian Experiences, In patterns of regional culture, architecture, were also lovers of India and Norblin’s Other Words: New Writing by Indian theatre and performing arts of India. The paintings. Another special guest was Women, Speaking Peace: Women Voices Department coordinates and contributes Prof. M. K. Byrski, who as the Polish from Kashmir. The theme of the meeting to several international research projects Ambassador in Delhi initiated talks was ‘Feminism in the Indian literary and cooperation schemes. Moreover, it concerning the conservation of Norblin’s scene.’ The meeting gathered several publishes ‘Cracow Indological Studies.’ works in Jodhpur. dozens of participants: staff, students, Let me present several activities and On 26 October 2012, the Department publishers and others interested in projects the JU Department of Indology of Indology hosted the Indian writer Indian literature. has conducted in the academic year and historian Urvashi Butalia. She The October cycle ended with a 2012/13. is also a co-founder of the feministic meeting with Suketu Mehta, the author October meetings publishing house Kali for Women. Her of the bestseller ‘Maximum City: literary output includes The Other Side Bombay Lost and Found’/’Maximum In October 2012, we started a cycle of Silence: Voices from the Partition City. Bombay’ and the Polish translator of meetings entitled ‘India Among of India and Women and the Hindu of the book Marta Bręgiel-Benedyk, E. Dębicka-Borek P. Borek P.

Presentation of the film ‘Chitraanjali’ Meeting with the writer Suketu Mehta

16 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 representing the Poznań Publishing the middle of the 19th century to the House Namas. The theme of the meeting middle of the 20th century. Moreover, was The Cultural Role of Indian Diaspora Piotr Borek, a PhD student, received a in the Modern World. The meeting was grant for his project History vs. early held on 29 October and was chaired by modern literature of southern India. The Dr Tatiana Dubyanska and Ass. Prof. problem of the historical entanglement Cezary Galewicz from the Department of literature riti on the example of the of Indology. It was attended by numerous poem The Úivrâjbhűṣaṇ (Ornament students and lovers of Mehta’s works. It of King Shivaji) by Bhushan Tripathi was not only an excellent occasion to (1630-1678); Ass. Prof. Marzenna talk about the Indian diaspora but also Czerniak-Drożdżowicz continues her about the process of writing as well as project Temple in the canonical Sanskrit Days of India the role and experiences of a translator. literature of the Pancaratra tradition The Students’ Scientifi c Association The gathered participants could talk of the Institute of Oriental Studies personally to Mr Mehta while he was organised ‘Days of India’ on 23-24 signing his books. May 2013. The aim of these days was to show numerous Indological issues Indological spring and discussion on the spheres of O. Jonarska In spring 2013, the Department of politics, economy, religion, culture and Indology organised the next edition international position of this region of of the project ‘Indological spring.’ South Asia. The projects embraced a Within the framework of the project, the scientifi c conference and cultural events Department hosts outstanding specialists (thematic meetings and workshops in indology from all over the world. Last (yoga, Indian art of fi ghting, Indian year these were Prof. Alexis Sanderson dance), lessons of Indian languages (Oxford), Prof. Marion Rastelli (Vienna), (Hindi, Sanskrit, Tamil, Malayal, Prof. Johannes Bronkhorst (Lausanne) Bengal, Urdu) as well as concerts and fi lm shows. and Prof. Klaus Karttunen (Helsinki). Urvashi Butalia This year, on 11-12 April, the guests The conference was held in the JU were Dr Barbara Lotz (University of Auditorium Maximum. It included such and in the practice of southern Indian Würzburg) who gave a lecture entitled topics as Amir Khusro Dehlewi (Dr Wishnuism. Whose language is it anyway? A brief Przemysław Piekarski), the institution of In turn Dr Ewa Dębicka-Borek is literary journey through the Hindi Urdu literary patronage (Maria Jawłowska); a member of the international research Controversy; Prof. Adalbert Gail (Freie stereotypes and prejudices towards the team realising the project Traces of Universitat Berlin) lecturing on Double- Hindu people in Rudyard Kipling’s the Heterodox Concept of Kingship in entendre (śleṣa) in the Visual Arts of stories (Antonina Łuszczykiewicz); Ancient Medieval and Modern India. South and Southeast Asia and Prof. Yigal classical clothes and make-up of the The 2012-2015 grant was given by Bronner (Hebrew University, Jerusalem) Indian theatre (Katarzyna Koprowska); the European Union and Autonomous lecturing on Embrace Takes Center Jakshagana: tradition and present Government of Sardinia. Its co-ordinator Stage: An Overview of Bitextuality in times (Marcin Ciemniewski); the is Dr Tiziana Pontillo (University of South Asian Literature. teaching of Buddysm therawada in the Cagliari) and the partners are: Prof. On 27 May, Prof. Hulkuntematha shadow of the civil war in Sri Lance Giuliano Boccali (University of Milan), Shivamurthy Sastri Shivaprakasha from (Piotr Paczkowski); the role of India Prof. Piergiorgio Solinas (University of the Jawaharlal Nehru University in New in the security politics of Pakistan (Dr Siena), Ass. Prof. Lidia Sudyka and Prof. Delhi, Director of the Tagore Centre Agnieszka Kuszewska); the infl uence Jarosław Vacek (Charles University in Berlin, gave a talk Modern Indian of Mahatma Gandhi on the activities of Prague). Theatres. Aung San Suu Kyi (Michal Lubina); the Indian-Chinese relationships (Tomasz Research grants It is worth mentioning that the Okraska); collaboration between India Department of Indology signed a new and China (Helena Filipiuk-Świtoń); In the academic year 2012/2013 Erasmus agreement with the University the need for deep social reforms in India scholars from the Department of of Würzburg, Germany, which will (Marta Zdzieborska); Kumari Mayawati Indology received research grants of the develop the exchange of staff and (Katarzyna Wypychewicz); Hindusim National Centre of Science: Ass. Prof. students in the area of the Hindi language and Christianity (Rafał Kłeczek); Hand Cezary Galewicz for the project Lands and literature. in Glove: Tamil Nadu cinema stars and of memory, kingdoms of script, empires The Department of Indology is a their political ambitions (Prof. Rajagopal of printing: Vedic ‘ars memorativa’ and member of ECAF Consortium (European Gowindaswami). the traditional systems of knowledge at Consortium for Asian Field Studies) The conference was followed by a the turn of the centuries; Ass. Prof. Lidia located in Paris. party in the Bollywood rhythms and a Sudyka, for the project Sanskrit literary concert bharatanatjam performed by the works of women coming from the royal Marzenna Czerniak-Drożdżowicz Natyalaya group. families of Travancore and Cochin from JU Department of Indology M. Kantor

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 17 ‘Micrornas: novel biomarkers of tumor angiogenesis’ POLISH-FRENCH LABORATORY and new developments in the Department of Medical Biotechnology

n 29 May 2013, JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak,MD, and Dr Jean Claude Michalski, Deputy Scientifi c Director of the Institute of Biological Sciences CNRS O J. Sawicz (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifi que – French National Centre for Scientifi c Research) in France, signed an agreement concerning the creation of the international associated laboratory ‘Micrornas: novel biomarkers of tumor angiogenesis’ (LIA ‘MiR-TANGo’) between the Department of Medical Biotechnology of the JU Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology and the team of Cell Recognition and Glycobiology of CNRS in Orleans. The laboratory, directed by Prof. Józef Dulak (a doctor honoris causa of the University of Orleans) and Prof. Claudine Kieda, will be located in the facilities of the Małopolska Centre for Biotechnology. The ceremony held in the JU Collegium Novum gathered the CNRS delegation: Dr Franc Pattus, Dr Francesca Grassia, Dr Michalski and Prof. Nowak signing the agreement Dr Catherine Grillon, Vera Frassetto and Dominique Le Masne, attache for science, technology and international cooperation in the French Embassy in Warsaw. The Jagiellonian University parallel research programmes lead to synergize by joining the was represented by Rector Nowak, Vice-Rectors: Prof. French and Polish efforts. The exchange of lecturers allows Stanisław Kistryn and Prof. Piotr Laidler, Dean of the Faculty the setting of complementary lectures between both Master’s of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology Prof. Wojciech programmes. Visiting professorships are established each Froncisz, and the Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry Prof. year. Grażyna Stochel as well as other invited guests, including the The Orléans ‘Cell recognition and glycobiology’ team former JU Rector Prof. Karol Musioł (a doctor honoris causa characteristics are illustrated by the organ-specifi city of the of the University of Orleans). endothelium and the knowledge and use of its molecular The LIA ‘MicroRNAs: novel biomarkers of tumor biology in the purpose to design new strategies for cell and angiogenesis (MiR-TANGo)’ brings together research strengths molecular targeting of pathologic sites. CBM research topics from the team ‘Cell recognition and Glycobiology’ of the Centre address endothelial cell/precursor cell-mediated targeting of de Biophysique Moléculaire, CNRS, Orléans, and the Medical therapeutic genes, microenvironment conditioned therapeutic Biotechnology Department of the Faculty of Biochemistry, gene expression, pathologic/ischemic vessel normalization, Biophysics and Biotechnology and the Malopolska Centre of pathologic hypoxia compensation, allosteric effector of Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University. It results from a hemoglobin mediated tissue hypoxia compensation, pathologic long lasting (bilateral and multilateral scientifi c coordination vessels normalization for cancer treatment and antimetastatic network – GDRE) co-operation in research and higher education. effects, immune response regulation (cellular and humoral) The benefi ts of the collaboration are illustrated by the organised upon hypoxia compensation, cancer stem cell hypoxia-mediated exchanges and enlarged cooperative achievements that allowed selection mechanism and regulation by tumor stromal pO2, the GDRE to be created in 2004 and whose consortium activity role of microRNA in regulation of hypoxia mediated tumor has been supported by the CNRS, INSERM, and the Polish angiogenesis. Ministry of Research and Higher Education, then from 2008 The JU Medical Biotechnology department focused its by CNRS, INCa and MNiSW. Educational activity has been activities on sophisticated gene therapy strategies for the and still is supported in France by regional councils and by treatment of vessels/endothelium linked pathologies. Such the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) and the Ministry of specializations clearly complete one another to approach the Research and Higher Education (MESR). Strong continuous new treatments that can be designed and based on the recent common communications are insured by co-organization of acquired knowledge on tumor angiogenesis and hypoxia versus yearly international scientifi c symposia and Master’s and PhD physioxia in the developing tumors. The following research thematic schools in France and in Poland. topics are addressed: the opposite effect of hypoxia-inducible The acquired experience allowed the setting of a regular factors (HIF-1 and HIF-2) on the angiogenic genes expression, exchange of students in a reciprocal manner (4 Master’s involvement of nitric oxide (NO) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO- students a year) and the establishment of double Masters 1) in regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), in biotechnologies between both universities since 2006. HO-1 in tumor growth and resistance to therapy, HO-1 in stromal Moreover, co-tutorial doctorate lectures and defenses were cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) mediated neovascularization, achieved (one in 2012 and two in 2013) in Orleans and Kraków. the angiogenic effect of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarylo- The reciprocity of the co- tutorial theses has demonstrated coenzym A inhibitors (statins), PPARγ independent activity the complementarity of the laboratories. The development of of prostaglandin J2 (PGJ2) in regulation of angiogenic gene

18 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 expression; novel mechanisms of myoblasts differentiation: role of heme oxygenase-1 in regulation of microRNA. Both parallel then common research on cancer is highlighted by high ranked, joint publication activity of the laboratories that further focused on tumor microenvironment and molecular mechanisms of signaling in cell interactions and communication in cancer. More particularly, the recent approaches concern tumor angiogenesis response to hypoxia, which governs tumor progression and cancer stem cell mediated resistance. The - From the ar chives of project teams’ specialised expertise completes one another for in vitro identifi cation of the in vivo microenvironment: hypoxia and consequences in signaling of angiogenesis-mediated tumor growth. Both partners’ data participate to the latest fi ndings that demonstrate the importance of tumor angiogenesis normalization, the crucial role of HO-1 signaling and the key regulation by microRNAs. To these approaches that The Department of Medical Biotechnology are strategic and innovative in cancer research, the partners brought their strong participation, and their above described specialized expertise show the synergy given by the adequate Joint project of the Department of Medical complementarity of the teams which is clearly demonstrated Biotechnology and Selvita by their common and individual publications. This points to Within the framework of the Second Competition of the the need to deepen the collaboration in order to optimize the Programme of Applied Research announced by the National effi ciency of research at transnational level. In this view the Centre for Research and Development a joint project of the actual project focuses on microRNA that are considered as Department of Medical Biotechnology and the Company markers of tumors growth and metastasis. They can then be ‘Selvita’ received a grant of 3,697,302 zloty, including considered as useful diagnostic biomarkers. 2,269,920 for the JU Department of Medical Biotechnology. The microRNAs which will be identifi ed in the frame The coordinators of the research within the framework of the of those studies and which will be shown to be regulated project are Dr Tomasz Rzymski from Selvita and Prof. Józef by or to regulate the expression of antioxidant and hypoxia- Dulak from the JU. Research on the new inhibitors of heme inducible genes will be analyzed in details for their potential oxygenase as potential drugs against cancer will be conducted use for angiogenesis normalization and new tumor treatment for three years. The idea of the project originated after many strategies. years of investigations of the team of the JU Department of Medical Biotechnology. The new research infrastructure of Special issue of GENE the Department of Medical Biotechnology (structural project A special issue of ‘GENE’: 50 years of gene therapy – a ‘Molecular biotechnology for health’ – POIG 02.01.00-064/08) contribution of Wacław Szybalski to science and humanity, will be used in this project. dedicated to its founder Prof. Wacław Szybalski appeared in July 2013. This issue, edited by Prof. Józef Dulak and Prof. Prof. Józef Dulak elected President of the European Alicja Józkowicz (Department of Medical Biotechnology), Vascular Biology Organisation contains the proceedings of the conference organised in September 2012 by the Polish Academy of Sciences and Prof. J. Dulak, head of the JU Department of Medical Letters, the Polish Cell Biology Society and the Jagiellonian Biotechnology, was elected President of the European Vascular University. The authors include Prof. Claudine Kieda, Prof. Biology Organisation (EVBO) for the next two years. The Chantal Pichon and Dr Patrick Midoux from CNRS, Orleans; European Vascular Biology Organisation was founded in Prof. Alain Fischer (INSERM U768, France); Prof. Adrian 2006 as an organisation embracing specialists in biology and Thrasher (UCL Institute of Child Health, London); Prof. vascular medicine. Seppo Yla-Herttuala from the University of Eastern Finland; On 21-24 September 2011, the Sixth European Meeting for Prof. Andrzej Mackiewicz (University of Poznań), Prof. Ewa Vascular Biology & Medicine was held in Kraków, which was Łojkowska and Prof. Jacek Bigda from MWB UG-GUMed in a continuation of the cycle of meetings within the European Gdańsk and Prof. Wacław Szybalski (professor emeritus of the Vascular Biology Organisation. The meeting gathered over 300 University of Wisconsin–Madison, USA). from 23 countries, which was a big success. The organiser of Prof. Szybalski, who was its editor-in-chief for 20 years, the conference was EVBO and the Polish Cell Biology Society founded ‘Gene’ in 1975. It is dedicated to new issues of genetics (including Prof. Józef Dulak and other specialists from the and molecular biology. Prof. Szybalski managed to collaborate JU Department of Medical Biotechnology and JU Collegium with scientists who were then behind ‘the Iron Curtain.’ He Medicum). This year’s conference – the Seventh European tried to infl uence the development of biological sciences in Vascular Biology Organisation – will be held in Birmingham Central-Eastern Europe. He worked with Karol Taylor, Anna (UK) on 21-26 July. Jadwiga Podhajska and Jadwiga Wild. ‘Gene’ has gained a www.evbo.org high prestige in the world of science. The special issue is at: Joanna Uchto www.journals.elsevier.com/gene/ JU Department of Medical Biotechnology

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 19 Collaboration A. Wojnar with Al Rai Centre for Research in Jordan

n 15 May 2013, in Amman, Rev. Prof. Krzysztof Kościelniak, Head of the Jagiellonian University OInstitute of Middle East and Far East Studies, and Dr Khaled A. Shogran, director of the Al Rai Centre for Research signed a memorandum of understanding. Both parties will exchange researchers, cooperate in conducting research and joint workshops and exchange information, publications and Visit to the JU Museum materials for academic purposes, among other activities. The agreement was signed within the framework of ‘Future Visits from Oman Relations Between Poland and the Arab World’ seminar, On 14 May 2013, the Jagiellonian University hosted organised on 11-13 May by the Polish Embassy in Amman a delegation from Oman with HE Mahfoodh Al-Manthri, to mark the 50th anniversary of its establishment in Jordan. Chairman of the State Council of the Sultanate of Oman. The The seminar was held at Al Rai Centre for Research, a leading guests were welcomed by JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak, Jordanian strategic centre. During the seminar, Bogusław Vice-Rector for Medical College Prof. Piotr Laidler, Director Winid, Undersecretary of State at the Polish Ministry of Foreign of the Institute of Oriental Studies and Head of the Arabic Affairs, mentioned that the diplomatic relations between Studies, Prof. Barbara Michalak-Pikulska and Director of the Jordan and Poland dated back to 1937, before the embassy was Jagiellonian University Museum, Ass. Prof. Krzysztof Stopka. established. In turn the Foreign Ministry Secretary General The programme of the visit included a tour of the JU Museum Mohammad Ali Thaher noted that the current international and a meeting with the JU Governance. HE Jahya Mahfoodh challenges called for bolstering relations between Poland and Al-Manthri said he was looking forward to the collaboration Jordan. The seminar gathered over 200 participants. between Oman and the Jagiellonian University in the area The JU Institute of Middle East and Far East Studies was of medicine, Oriental studies, and student exchanges. In his founded in 2000 on the initiative of the late Prof. Andrzej welcome address, JU Rector presented the structure and the Kapiszewski. The Middle East programme is a unique mission of the oldest university in Poland. specialisation aiming at gaining profound knowledge about the In turn Prof. Pikulska, in the speech delivered in Arabic, dynamically developing region of the Middle East, embracing focused on the opportunities of co-operation between the northern Africa and southern-western Asia. It is the cradle of Jagiellonian University and Oman. As Professor Pikulska is the ancient civilisations and at the same time of the three great author of the fi rst history of the contemporary Omani literature religions: Islam, Judaism and Christianity. The programme is in the world, the meeting provided a perfect opportunity to interdisciplinary, concerning the history and culture as well as present Mr Mahfoodh Al-Manthri with this unique book. political, economic and social systems as well as international Prof. Laidler, Vice-Rector for Medical College and former relationships of this region. Head of the School of Medicine in English, presented the M. Kantor educational offer of the Medical College and procedures under which foreign students of medicine enter the Jagiellonian University. On 27-30 May 2013, during the Ibadi Jurisprudence International Conference organised by the JU the Institute of A. Ayoub Oriental Studies, the Jagiellonian University hosted another delegation from Oman with Minister Abdullah Al-Salmi and HE Ambassador Adam Kułach, Head of the EU Delegation to the Gulf – Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar. Mariusz Kopiejka Offi ce of Information

In the courtyard of Collegium Maius A. Wojnar

Rev. Prof. K. Kościelniak and Dr Khaled A. Shogran

20 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 Agreement with the University of Haifa he Jagiellonian started collaboration with the University The University was established in 1963 under the joint of Haifa, Israel. The agreement was signed on 11 April auspices of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the T2013 by Mr. Amos Shapira, President, and Professor Haifa Municipality. In 1972, it was recognised as a separate David Faraggi, Rector of the University of Haifa, and institution of higher education. Its campus spreads along a Professor Wojciech Nowak, Rector, and Professor Stanisław Carmel Mountain ridge southeast of the city of Haifa and is Kistryn, Vice-Rector of Research and Structural Funds of the surrounded by the Carmel National Park. The University of Jagiellonian University. Haifa is the most pluralistic institution of higher education in The modes of cooperation will include: exchange of Israel: its Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD students (over 17,000) scholars, joint research projects, joint teaching and supervision come from cities and small towns, kibbutzim and moshavim of students, joint participation in workshops and conferences, (settlements). They are new immigrants, Jews, Arabs, and student mobility and prospective exchange of students and Druze – all sitting together on the bench of knowledge in an participation of students in Study Abroad programs hosted by atmosphere of coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect. each institution. The University offers six Faculties: Humanities, Social The co-operation will fi rst be conducted by the JU Institute Sciences, Sciences and Science Education, Law, Social of Middle East and Far East Studies. The University of Haifa Welfare and Health Studies, and Education; and fi ve Schools: is the second Israeli university with which the Jagiellonian Business Administration, Social Work, History, Public Health, University signed an agreement of scientifi c collaboration, the and Political Sciences. fi rst one being the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. M. Kantor POLISH DAYS IN ODESSA

n 23-25 May 2013, the General Consulate of the Republic of Poland in Odessa, Ukraine, organised O‘Polish Days’ in Odessa. The Jagiellonian University participated actively in this event. Its delegation consisted of the Vice-Dean of the Faculty of History Prof. Stanisław Sroka and representatives of the Rector’s Offi ce, the Admissions Offi ce and the Promotion Offi ce (L. Nycz, A. Jędrychowska and M. Rdzanek). The latter co-organised an educational stand during the fair ‘Ekspo-Jug-Serwis’ in Odessa. However, during the Polish Days in Odessa the Jagiellonian University’s main role was the organisation, together with the Odessa Mechnikov National University, of the contest ‘Polish Odessa’ – junior researchers and students were to propose projects of routes of the Polish traces in Odessa. The winner of the contest was Inna Sak whose award was a one-month course at the JU School of Polish Language and Culture, funded by

the JU Rector Prof. Wojciech Nowak. The JU Vice-Dean took L. Nycz part in the session of the committee appointed to judge the contest. youth and teachers of the Polish language at the Municipal Another important point of the programme of the JU College. The delegation also visited the Petro Mohyla Black delegation was a visit to Mykolayiv during which they met Sea State University in Mykolayiv. It is worth mentioning that the Jagiellonian University intends to sign an agreement of co-operation with the Odessa

L. Nycz Mechnikov National University. That is why Prof. Sroka also talked to Prof. Igor Koval, Rector of Odessa Mechnikov National University and Prof. Wlaczeslaw Kusznir, Dean of the Faculty of History. Finally, the JU delegation, together with General Consul Joanna Strzelczyk and Consul Adam Adamczuk, laid a wreath at the monument to Adam Mickiewicz (Polish national poet) and at the commemorative tablet to the late President of Poland Lech Kaczyński. Michał Rdzanek JU Promotion Offi ce

Prof. Sroka and Inna Sak

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 21 IRUN MEETING IN POITIERS

his year’s annual IRUN meeting was held at the of migration. Naturally, the audience liked his language, full of University of Poitiers, France, on 6-8 June 2013. The humour and witty remarks. Tfi rst meetings of the working groups took place on 6 The next talk ‘European Politics for Higher Education’ June and then continued on Friday morning, 7 June. The was given by Bernadette Vergnaud (MEP since 2004 and Vice- Jagiellonian University participated in the Careers Offi ces President of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Group (Agnieszka Dudziak and Patrycja Supik, JU Careers Protection). She stressed the international rage of the infl uence Offi ce) and the Contact Persons Group (Maria Kantor, of the EU politics for higher education (90 million students, 4 International Relations). At the IRUN Rectors’ Meeting the million scientists and 47 countries involved). He mentioned the Jagiellonian University was represented by Prof. Andrzej three priorities accepted by the European Commission in April Mania, Vice-rector for educational affairs. 2012 – mobility for growth, quality for training and automatic For the fi rst time a PhD conference was organised within recognition of diplomas. We can expect improvement of the the framework of the IRUN annual meeting on 6 June. The Erasmus charter, better language preparation for mobility, University of Poitiers invited PhD students from the IRUN identifi cation of good practices, reinforcement of quality, partner universities to an international conference on ‘Migration exchanges and cohesion as well as more traineeships and in Europe, Europe and Migration.’ sharing of achievements. The Jagiellonian University sent two PhD students: Anna The last talk focused on the fi ftieth anniversary of the Łobodzińska, Institute of Geography and Space Management, Elysée Treaty and was given by Prof. Dominique Breillat and Dorota Jedlikowska, Institute of Sociology. from Poitiers. He presented the historical context of the treaty, The next event for all participants of the IRUN meeting saying that it was a model of friendship, reconciliation and was a conference on higher education and European policies, confi dence. In his opinion the results of the Elysée Treaty are: held on 7 June. It was presided over by the Vice-Rector of reconciliation, town twinning, eight million participants in the the University of Poitiers Prof. Ludovic Thilly. The welcome French-German Youth Offi ce and technical co-operation. addresses were given by the Rector of University of Poitiers This busy day ended with an interesting bus tour through Prof. Yves Jean and the Rector of the Radboud University the faculties of the South Campus and visit of the faculty of Nijmegen Prof. Sebastian Kortmann. Prof. Jean said that Human Sciences and Art in the city centre – Hôtel Fumé. the University of Poitiers, from its very beginning in 1431 IRUN Rectors’ Meeting took place on 8 June. It was chaired stressed equality between peoples and cultures, The University by Prof. Sebastian Kortmann (Radboud University Nijmegen) is proud of its international dimension: 4,000 students from and dedicated mainly to the draft strategy paper. The new 126 countries (17% of the total number of students) as well IRUN secretariat member Mr Boudewijn Grievink presented as of its research dimension (23 research laboratories). In turn the IRUN achievements 2012-2013 (mobility involved 245 Prof. Kortmann emphasised that Europe was a place of peace students and 17 staff members; three EU joint projects and fi ve and stability and the EU stimulated mutual confi dence and we applications for intensive programmes). It is worth mentioning faced major developments that would have great impact on that since the foundation of IRUN (2007) 1,189 students and education and research. 121 staff members have visited IRUN partner universities. The fi rst talk entitled ‘Perspectives for Higher Education in Then the leaders of the working groups (Jane Weir, Andreas Europe and the place of European universities in international Eimer and Pim van Zanen) gave their oral reports from the ranking (U-Multirank initiative)’ was delivered by Vanessa group meetings. Debiais-Sainton (Head of the Erasmus Team, European The second part of the Rectors’ Meeting was the strategic Commission, Directorate General for Education and Culture lecture ‘The Impact of the new EU programs Erasmus for All Unit C1-Higher Education). She gave a detailed presentation and Horizon 2020 on Management of Education and Research’ of the Erasmus for All Programme, Horizon 2020 and U- given by V. Debiais-Saiton (Head of the Erasmus Team, Multirank, which was followed by a fervent discussion. European Commission – Directorate General for Education This important and content-loaded talk was followed by a and Culture Unit C1 – Higher Education), which was followed report of the PhD meeting given by the PhD student Rodrigo by numerous questions related to the lecture. Bueno Lacy (of Mexican background) from the Radboud The next annual IRUN meeting is planned in Münster to University Nijmegen. He shared the most interesting points take place on 22-24 May 2014. M. Kantor from each of the 10 presentations prepared by the PhD participants, and he did it with enthusiasm and real joy fl owing from the fact that he could learn so much about different aspects Migration in Europe, Europe and Migration – IRUN PhD Conference On 6 June 2013, a PhD Conference ‘Migration in Europe, ce Europe and Migration’ was held in Poitiers, France. The conference was part of the IRUN Annual Meeting (The

IRUN Offi International Research Universities Network) organised this year by the University of Poitiers. The event gathered 10 participants – PhD candidates from University of Duisburg- Essen, University of Poitiers, Radboud University Nijmegen and Jagiellonian University in Kraków. The Jagiellonian University was represented by Dorota Jedlikowska (Institute Participants of the meeting in Poitiers of Sociology) and Anna Łobodzińska (Institute of Geography and Spatial Management).

22 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 The idea of the conference was to give PhD students working on the topic of migration an opportunity to present and compare their research. As participants represented various fi elds of studies, e.g. economy, social sciences, geography, the event had a truly multidisciplinary character. The presentations focused on different aspects of migration in Europe, such as the impact ce of migration on labour markets (both in source and receiving countries), demographic and social characteristics of migrants and migration fl ows, problems connected with cultural IRUN Offi integration, discrimination and living conditions of immigrants, PhD students’ conference scientifi c mobility as an example of migration, as well as on issues concerning borders in Europe or the meaning of space specialised in international migration and ethnic relations) for refugees. Each presentation was followed by a discussion, were presented to the participants. during which the participants tried to fi nd out the common areas The whole event was an excellent opportunity to exchange of interests among these varied research, as well as possibilities knowledge and experience between PhD students working on to use their fi ndings in different fi elds of studies. a wide variety of issues connected with migration in Europe. The main objectives of the presented research, as well Moreover, the conference enabled participants to compare as some conclusions from discussions were summed up and fi ndings of their research, as well as to enrich them with the introduced to the other participants of IRUN Annual Meeting comments from fellow PhD candidates with different scientifi c during the main conference on 7 June. backgrounds. In addition to the conference documentary resources Anna Łobodzińska of Migrinter (research laboratory at University of Poitiers, Institute of Geography and Space Management

IRUN workshop: Immune Integrity, a survival kit

he IRUN international workshop ‘Immune Integrity, epithelium’ and ‘Murine PAN_02 pancreatic model description.’ a survival kit for PhD students’ was held at Radboud The topics discussed in brainstorm groups included: infection TUniversity Nijmegen, Holland, on 27-28 May 2013. It and infl ammation as well as cancer. gathered over 35 PhD students and more than 15 group leaders Day two gave the PhD students the opportunity to get from six countries. hands-on experience from a choice of workshops: multiphoton The PhD students and PI’s came from various universities microscopy, fl ow cytometry and genomics. In parallel there within the International Research Universities Network: the was a brainstorm session with the group leaders to discuss University of Münster (Germany), University of Duisburg- future collaborative projects and joint grant applications. Two Essen (Germany), University Barcelona (Spain), University potential topics of joint projects were proposed. of Glasgow (Scotland), Jagiellonian University (Poland) and The next meeting will be held in Glasgow in 2014. Radboud University Nijmegen. The Jagiellonian University was represented by Ass Prof. Jarosław Baran, Department of Jarosław Baran Clinical Immunology, JU Children’s Hospital, Clinical Immunology, JU Children’s Hospital and Ass. Prof. Joanna Cichy, JU Department of Immunology, Department of Biophysics, ce Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, and four PhD students. Ass. IRUN Offi Prof. Joanna Cichy gave a talk entitled ‘Innate immunity cell crosstalk in psoriasis.’ René Bindels, scientifi c director of the NCMLS, opened the programme on 27 May. Then the PI’s introduced themselves and in small subgroups participated in roundtable discussions. In parallel, the PhD’s participated in a speed-date session to see if there was a scientifi c match. In the afternoon, there was also a poster-slam where the PhD students could present their posters in small groups. The JU posters had the titles: ‘The inhibitory effect of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) on formation of neutrophil extracellular traps,’ ‘Chemerin is an antibacterial agent in Participants of the workshop

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 23 Graduation in Collegium Medicum

n 18 May 2013, at a ceremony A special award was given to Prof. in the Main Lecture Hall Ralph Józefowicz from the University Oof Jagiellonian University of Rochester Medical Center School Collegium Novum, 26 graduates of of Medicine and Dentistry, visiting the School of Medicine in English, professor at the UJ, lecturing on JU Faculty of Medicine, took the neurology. Hippocratic Oath and received diplomas The JU School of Medicine in upon completing their 4-year MD degree English was established in 1993 and programme. The new graduates come since the academic year 1994/95 has from the United States of America and offered English-language MD degree Canada. programs that stand in compliance with The ceremony was attended by Prof. Polish, European Union and North Perspektywy Prof. Laidler showing the diploma Piotr Laidler, JU Vice-Rector for Medical American standards. Graduates of these of the best medical faculty College, Prof. Tomasz Grodzicki, Dean programs receive Lekarz (MD) degree of the Faculty of Medicine, and Prof. approved internationally. It is accredited students from professors and teaching Jerzy Walocha, President of the School by the Accreditation Commission for staff with long-term training in the US of Medicine in English Council. Medical Schools and recognised by and Canada. Based on tradition and The alumni gave special diplomas the U.S. Department of Education. In history, the School of Medicine has to the best lecturers of pre-clinical and 2007 the Division of Licensing of the always adhered to its motto of ‘Healing clinical courses: Dr Monika Bociąga- Medical Board of California granted and Teaching.’ Jasik, Chair of Gastroenterology, recognition to the English-language JU The JU Faculty of Medicine was Hepatology and Infectious Diseases and programmes. The programmes offer ranked the best medical faculty in Dr Piotr Kruczek, Chair of Paediatrics. unique medical training to foreign Poland in 2013. M. Kantor G. Czerwiński Medical Development in Europe

mong the various medical courses offered by the of the English medical programme, including students from Jagiellonian University School of Medicine, the Ukraine, the United States, the United Kingdom and Norway), Ainternational exchange program entitled Medical 11 students from the Karolinska Institute, and 8 students from Development in Europe stands out as distinguished among the University of Cagliari. This international group of medical the rest. In co-operation with the Karolinska Institute in students set out on an unforgettable experience of medicine, Stockholm, Sweden, the Jagiellonian University in Kraków, cultural diversity and self-discovery. Poland, and the University of Cagliari in Sardinia, Italy, The course began in December 2012 in Stockholm, at the medical students from these three Universities gather the Institution of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, the very together for one week at each location during December and place where the Nobel Assembly awards the Nobel Prize in January, to be engaged in clinically and theoretically focused Physiology and Medicine. Here the students were met with the instruction, and to complete a group project on a health related cold weather of the Scandinavian winter months, along with topic and its impacts in Europe. Now in it is the fi fth year that the warm hospitality of Prof. Hans Gyllenhamaar, Birgitta the medical students participated in this course. There were Bjorck and Karin Sendek, who graciously invited the students 31 students: 12 students from the Jagiellonian University (8 to a welcome and orientation dinner upon arrival in Stockholm. students from the Polish medical programme and 4 students The course at the Karolinska Institute began promptly the

24 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 B. Malecki

Prof. T. Brzozowski welcoming the students Clinical practice next morning and included lectures on topics such as the projects, which they had undertaken throughout the entire structure of the Swedish medical system, disease conditions course. The assigned medical cases focused on specifi c health such as tuberculosis and liver disease in Europe, and a clinical conditions and refl ected their impact in Europe. The groups seminar, which included shadowing physicians in the various consisted of fi ve multicultural teams, divided up to include hospital wards: cardiology, infectious diseases, haematology students from each University, to provide an opportunity to and gastroenterology. After the teaching, the students were collaborate in an international team and for diverse perspectives. offered the opportunity to explore the winding cobble-stoned Besides the daily medical assignments in Cagliari, the students streets of the Gamla Stan, the historic districts, and were were provided with a rich cultural experience to taste the accompanied by the co-ordinators to the Vasa museum, the Italian cuisine, visit Cittadella dei Musei, the museum centre most visited museum in Scandinavia. The farewell and winter of Cagliari, and explore the picturesque city with its famous celebration dinner, attended by the professors, was a cosy way beaches. The hospitality of the University was increasingly to say goodbye to beautiful Stockholm. evident, among other things, in the farewell dinner, together After a two-week break, the students reconvened in Kraków, with the professors. hosted by the Jagiellonian University School of Medicine – the Learning about the different medical systems of each second oldest University in Central Europe. Upon arrival, country, engaging in thought-provoking theoretical lectures the students were welcomed for an orientation reception at a and observing various clinical cases, the students practiced how popular local restaurant. They had the chance to experience the to collaborate in a dynamic international team and appreciate Polish cuisine and culture, and they prepared themselves for the variety of unique backgrounds. Indeed, as the physician the activities to come. Supervised by Prof. Piotr Laidler (Vice- William Osler once stated, ‘The great minds, the great works, Rector), Prof. Tomasz Grodzicki (Dean of the JU Faculty of transcend all limitations of time, of language, and of race, and Medicine) and Prof. Tomasz Brzozowski (Deputy Dean for the scholar can never feel initiated into the company of the Scientifi c Development in Medicine and Foreign Affairs), the elect until he/she can approach all of life’s problems from the students listened to various lectures and had numerous clinical cosmopolitan standpoint.’ practice opportunities carried out in the JU medical departments This course is one of the things that will forever be and facilities. They could receive advice and consultation from treasured by its participants as an unparalleled opportunity of distinguished professors, including Prof. Maciej Malecki scholarship, discovery, co-operation and friendship. (Metabolic Diseases), Prof. Jerzy Sadowski (Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplantation, Institute of Cardiology), Prof. Bianka Malecki and Magda Stankiewicz Marcin Majka (Transplantation, Institute of Paediatrics) and Students of JU Medical College Prof. Krzysztof Fyderek (Paediatrics, Gastroenterology and Nutrition), just to name a few, and were thus able to experience medical care in Poland. The highlight of this practice was the remarkable opportunity to observe an open-heart surgery at the operating theatre at the John Paul II hospital. In the evening, B. Malecki the students also had the opportunity to explore the charming streets of Kraków’s Old Town and the Wawel Royal Castle. The last meeting of professors and students was held in the beautiful Zodiac Chamber of the Jagiellonian University – unforgettable time spent in Kraków. From Poland, the group was whisked away to sunny Sardinia. It was hosted by the University of Cagliari, School of Medicine and Surgery. Here Prof. Amedeo Columbano (Toxicology) arranged for the students a series of lectures focusing on genetic diseases, oncology, neurology and the Italian health care system, and clinical rotations at the centres of paediatrics, gynaecology/obstetrics and otolaryngology. Moreover, the students presented to their colleagues their All the participants in the courtyard of Collegium Medicum

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 25 University fawns and off erings of coca leaves – Peruvian contrasts and studies in Lima

or Europeans landing over the Pacifi c Ocean it is as if go to one of the four canteens, or to many coffee shops, and reading the fi rst pages of a new book, hugging with its a bookstore... Exchange students are taken good care of and Fheroes and a possibility of experiencing this completely are helped with their problems. Of course – not all Peruvian new history on one’s own. Simply, it is entirely different, and universities are like this one as it is a private institution of everyone who visits South America for the fi rst time can take it higher education. Therefore, study conditions are carefully for granted that he or she will be surprised not once but many adjusted to decisively intensive intellectual efforts that the times. Visitors are surprised by wonderful monuments and university requires. The nearby State University of San Marcos virgin countryside – ordinary life turns out to be extraordinary is a little different and fi ts the Peruvian image. Many scholars, here. regarded as specialists in Latin American studies are professors The thing that becomes obvious after you have recovered at Pontifi cia Universidad Católica del Peru. Thus, students can from the magic of the fi rst days of your stay in Peru is the array listen to their lectures and participate in their seminars as well of contrasts. In order to have a foretaste of what I am describing as count on their advice. Several excellently equipped libraries it is enough to make a round in Lima using its public transport. contribute to the students’ full happiness. My favourite subjects You will experience your fi rst shock before you get on a bus included a course of the Quechua language. Although learning – people will shout at you. The reason for this may be that they another language in classes instructed in Spanish was not easy, all are in a hurry; another reason is that there are many buses the effect – ability to say something to the local inhabitants and vans and the competition is growing, or perhaps they want – often turned out to be a key to win the hearts of those I met you to hurry and take your plate quickly – el micro wants to during my trips around the country. Besides Spanish, Quechua leave at last. Whole districts, and even particular streets, change and Aymara, despite the fact that these languages are clearly their faces like in a kaleidoscope. This is another shock. You discriminated, are also the offi cial languages in Peru. will see blocks of exclusive apartments, people jogging along However, true Peru, whose representatives migrate the ocean beaches, raw brick houses and families burning litter increasingly more to work in Lima, is outside of the capital. in barrels in the pavements. It is a vast territory and three different zones – dry coasts, Every incoming student will also experience contrasts the majestic Andes and muggy jungle. In order to taste the just on their fi rst day of studies. Just like me – an exchange Peruvian diversity you should expect to cover long distances, student sent to Pontifi cia Universidad Católica del Peru. The mostly along mountainous hairpin roads. After having reached University’s area is enclosed; every student must show its the chief Peruvian treasures like Cuzco and Machu Picchu, it is card to enter it. In addition, inside – a separate world of happy, worth searching deeper and going beyond the so-called gringo cheerful students, carrying their iPod’s and going around the trail (standard touristic routes) even for a while. It is worth modern buildings and lawns, where fawns graze. Students can staying in less known places and talking to people.

Geoplyph ‘El Candelabrio’ Paracas M. Banach

26 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 M. Banach

The Uros women living on the Uros – a floating insland of Lake Titicaca

ask, ‘Dear Grandparents, I have come to visit you and am asking you not to do any harm to me; I have brought you a coca leaf, a cigarette and some rum. Let me pass!’ Since the Conquista times many ages have gone by but old beliefs are still being cultivated and the memories of their ancestors have not died out. Numerous villages, located in the high Andes, preserve old strict rules, which are, unfortunately, not valid in cities. These rules make the villages extremely safe places in which nobody dares to harm others or steal some property. If you get lost they will lead you home. If you lose something they will fi nd it and bring it to you. You have no chance to leave a village suffering from Easter decorations in San Damian hunger – there will always be several charming old women who would like to share corncobs or meat soup called pachamanca or I found my world in small Andean villages where you a mug of fermented chicha. could listen to old stories about the ancestors who have been I am commenting my year’s stay in Peru at www.facebook. living in the ruins of the pre-Inca cultures until now. However, com/caminodeerva. be careful! In order to visit these people safely you should I cordially invite you to read it! make an offering of coca leaves, light a cigarette for them and Monika Banach

JUWENALIA AND DRAGON BOAT RACE At the Jagiellonian University the month of May always abounds in events. We take our camera to the students’ festivities called Juwenalia (9-12 May 2013), the Dragon Boat Race (15 May) and the Festival of Science (16-18 May).

In the Market Square A. Wojnar

NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 27 JUWENALIA DRAGON BOAT RACE On 15 May 2013 the Fourth University Dragon Boat Race and Grand Regatta were held on the Vistula River under the patronage of the rectors of Kraków institutions of higher education. 15 teams in dragon boats (nine with male crews and 3 with female crews) rigged with decorative dragon heads and tails. Only two universities put their 8 men’s and women’s rowing boats in the Grand Regatta. These were two JU boats: one representing the three faculties of Collegium Medicum and the other representing the remaining 12 faculties, and one boat of the AGH University of Science and Technology. A. Wojnar

The biggest and most riotously celebrated students’ festivities called ‘Juwenalia’ go back to the 15th century. There was a welcoming of freshmen with various rituals, which were sometimes very unpleasant for freshmen, for example they were smeared with a black sticky substance or forced to wear weird clothes and dog-ears. Students chose a king – the most popular student. Today there was also a contest of the most beautiful female student and the best male student. During Krakow’s Juwenalia festivities, students rule the streets with parties and parades. The most famous is the ‘March to the Main Market Square,’ which this year took place on 10 May. Students from all Kraków institutions of higher education marched in a colourful parade from the AGH Campus to the city’s main square. They wore fancy costumes. Kraków’s President Jacek Majchrowski handed the students his keys to the city in the square on the Friday of the week-long event. Throughout Juwenalia the city brims with concerts, parades, art exhibitions and shows. J. Sawicz A. Wojnar

The winner of 8 men’s and women’s races was the team of the JU Collegium Medicum. It is worth knowing that the all members of the Collegium Medicum teams were international students (women’s team: Idland Ragni, Thorleifsson Tilla, Landmark Silje, Amble Fanny, Lystad Malene G., Solbakken Ida, Friis Nora, Nygĺrd Rita Mariann, Lian Malu; and the men’s team: Anderssen Eirik, Ankre Erik, Hauge Mats Bruun-Olsen, Kvale Loe Henrik, Pihl Michael, Sandřy Sturla Markhus, Sletten Ole Jakob, Sletto Per Jřrgen, Vreim Řrbeck Cox Sondre). The races were held opposite the Wawel castle in sunny 28 NEWS letter No. 50 Summer 2013 weather and gathered numerous viewers and fans. M. Kantor