On Saturday, October 17, 2026, a solemn discussion dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the National Representation of Doctoral Students (Krajowa Reprezentacja Doktorantów) was held in the Sejm building in Warsaw. The event, which gathered representatives of the academic community, was under the patronage of Marshal of the Sejm Włodzimierz Czarzasty. The organizers prepared a program comprising three expert panels, which analyzed the history, current state, and future of doctoral education in Poland.
Opening and the Role of KRD
The meeting was opened by the Minister of Science and Higher Education, Marcin Kulasek. In his speech, he emphasized that the National Representation of Doctoral Students is a key element of the Polish scientific ecosystem. The Minister expressed gratitude to the young scientists creating this organization for their willingness to take shared responsibility for the development of the Polish academic community. He noted that scientific progress is possible thanks to the dialogue between experienced researchers and the young generation, which brings a fresh, critical perspective and energy to the community. Minister Kulasek pointed out that KRD offers the valuable perspective of practitioners—people who are currently conducting research and working on their doctoral dissertations, and who will in the future shape the strength of Polish scientific thought on the international arena.
Debates on the Past and Present
Within the framework of the anniversary celebrations, three main expert discussions were planned. The first panel concerned the 20-year history of KRD. Participants discussed the beginnings of doctoral self-governance and how doctoral studies in Poland have evolved over the last two decades.
The second panel focused on the present. The discussion addressed the current situation in doctoral schools, which operate as a result of the reform introduced in 2018. Experts also discussed the latest modifications in the third-cycle education system. A key topic was legal changes, such as the introduction of allowances for doctoral students and covering this group with sickness insurance.
Perspectives and Evening Ceremonies
The third panel was dedicated to the future. Participants discussed proposals for solving the problems faced by contemporary doctoral students, attempting to set directions for the further development of this community.
The further part of the 20th-anniversary celebrations of KRD was planned for the evening. The event will move to the Royal Castle, where a solemn gala will take place. There, the National Representation of Doctoral Students is to announce the results of a special competition for the university most friendly to doctoral students.