Gdynia Maritime University GMU

On 11 November 2023, Gdynia celebrated the 105th anniversary of Poland's regaining of independence in with a traditional street parade. The parade was followed by the welcoming home of Dar Młodzieży.

The main event of Gdynia's Independence Day Celebrations is a colourful street parade which begins at the City Hall and makes its way along Świętojańska Street, the main axis of the city, to the monument to Maritime Poland in Skwer Kościuszki. The parade set off at noon and was attended by several thousand people representing local schools, universities, social organisations, and companies. Also taking were Gdynia Maritime University's authorities, lecturers, staff, and students, who made up one of the most numerous groups taking part in the parade. Following the parade, all students and University staff taking part gathered in the Council of Europe Park for refreshments and, as is tradition, a group photo.

In front of the monument to Maritime Poland, an official ceremony took place with the participation of city authorities, parliamentarians, Navy Commanders and representatives of social organisations. Supported by the University's Guard of Honour, flowers were laid at the foot of the monument by HM Rector Professor Adam Weintrit, Deputy Rector for Cooperation and Development Professor  Tomasz Tarasiuk ,Deputy Rector for Science Dr Dariusz Barbucha, Deputy Rector for Deputy Rector for Education, Dr Sambor Guze, and Filip Malata - GMU Chancellor. After the ceremony, participants in the parade and spectators gathered at the Pomeranian Quay to welcome Dar Młodzieży following its 6-month voyage during which the frigate crossed the equator.

"I would like to thank you for coming out in such numbers to celebrate with us, said Rector Professor Adam Weintrit. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the crossing the equator by the "Lwów", the first ship sailing under the white and red flag, we decided to embark on this exceptional voyage. On board were second-year students from the Faculty of Navigation Department, who completed the task of sailing across the equator and returned safely home. In recent weeks, the weather in the North Sea was not the best. We knew when we planned in May for the ship's return on 11 November that it was a risk. However, luckily the ship has returned safely to port today. I extend my sincere thanks to all of on board. The city should be proud of this ship," added the Rector.

"It is a reason for great joy and great pride that on a very symbolic day, 11 November, when all of Poland celebrates our Independence that the tall ship which is the symbol of Maritime Poland returns to its home port after such a historic voyage," announced the Mayor of Gdynia Dr Wojciech Szczurek. - "To the crew on board, we extend a warm welcome home. You have our admiration for this fantastic achievement in honour of a 100-year-old historical event. To Rector Professor Weintrit and the whole academic community of Gdynia Maritime University, my sincere congratulations for this voyage - it is a remarkable achievement".

We would like to warmly express our thanks to our staff and students for coming out in such numbers and proudly representing Gdynia Maritime University on Independence Day. 

See you all next year!