Gdynia Maritime University GMU

We are pleased to announce that the series of lectures called Scholarly Evenings with Gdynia Maritime University began on 23 October 2024. The initiative is aimed at the residents of Gdynia, Tricity and the vicinities. The Deputy Rector for Scientific Research, Associate Professor Dr Dariusz Barbucha, greeted those in attendance. Dr Barbucha leads the Local Advocates for Science at GMU project that serves as the basis for the initiative.

In his short speech, he emphasised that:

"The proposed series of lectures was prepared with Tricity residents in mind, especially those living locally in Gdynia, the home to our University for nearly 100 years. We would like to show that as a University we are an important part of this city and wish to serve the local community by sharing our knowledge, expertise, and achievements. I am grateful that you chose to spend the evening with us."

The opening lecture entitled "The Sponge-City Concept as a Quality of Life Improvement and Sustainable Development Factor" was given by GMU Associate Professor Dr Aneta Ocieczek. She described to the audience introductory issues concerning the origin of water on our planet, the characteristics of chosen properties of water and their significance for life, development, and the well-being of humanity. She also touched on the subject of the consequences of climate change. An important element of the lecture was the presentation of selected aspects of the implementation of the 'sponge city' concept using the case study of the city of Bydgoszcz, Poland.

The lecture was received with great interest, which was visible in the number of questions asked afterwards as well as following the discussion with the speaker. The event brought together the residents of Gdynia and representatives of Gdynia Maritime University with the special attendance of Ms Joanna Zielińska, municipal councillor and the Chairperson of the University Board. During the discussion, she stressed the importance of urban solutions that offer protection against the consequences of sudden downpours, whilst allowing for rational management of the available freshwater supplies.

The Scholarly Evenings with Gdynia Maritime University initiative will include 20 lectures presented by experienced academic lecturers affiliated with GMU.