The meeting provided an opportunity to officially welcome students who began their studies on 1 October 2026, as well as Erasmus+ students, to the PULS academic community. The event opened with a welcome address by Prof. Karolina Pawlak, Vice-Rector for International Relations at Poznań University of Life Sciences, who warmly welcomed the participants and invited guests. In her speech, the Vice-Rector highlighted the importance of internationalisation and the valuable role international students play in creating a diverse, inclusive and welcoming academic community.

The meeting was hosted by Prof. Jean Diatta, Rector's Proxy for International Students, who guided participants through the programme, introduced the invited speakers and ensured the smooth running of the event. Throughout the meeting, representatives of the University authorities, administrative units, local institutions and student organisations provided participants with essential information about the organisation of studies, students' rights and responsibilities, administrative procedures and the support services available at the University.

An important part of the programme was the participation of representatives of municipal and regional institutions, who shared practical information relevant to living and studying in Poland. Ms Anna Wawdysz, representing the Poznań City Hall, introduced participants to the opportunities that Poznań offers its international academic community and encouraged students to become actively involved in city life. Ms Joanna Ciesielczak, representing the Department for Foreigners of the Wielkopolska Voivodeship Office  Office of Wielkopolska Province in Poznań (na stronie Wydziału Spraw Cudzoziemców, tak tłumaczą swoja nazwę na j.angielski) discussed issues related to the legalisation of stay in Poland, residence permits and relevant administrative procedures. This information was particularly valuable for students beginning their studies and their stay in Poland.

The meeting also highlighted the support services offered by the Support and Development Centre (CWR) and introduced the activities of Welcome Point, an information and adaptation support centre for international students, operating at the University since 1 September 2026.

The programme also covered the University's organisational structure, available administrative services, accommodation-related matters and opportunities for students to pursue their academic, cultural and sporting interests. Another important part of the event was a presentation of PULS International Student Association (PULS-ISA) and the introduction of the association's coordinators, who support international students in various aspects of academic and social life.

The meeting was also attended by local students who joined the PULS BUDDY Programme this year. This valuable initiative brings together Polish and international students, helping newcomers adapt to the academic environment and everyday life in Poznań. As part of the programme, local students act as Buddies – fellow students who help their international peers settle into their new surroundings, become familiar with the University and the city, and overcome the initial challenges of living in Poland. The programme also promotes intercultural integration, encourages new friendships and the exchange of experiences, and contributes to building an open, supportive and welcoming academic community at PULS.

The Welcome and Integration Meeting was not only an informative event but also an opportunity for integration. It provided a welcoming space for participants to get to know one another, make new friends, exchange experiences and build connections between students and University representatives.

The event concluded with refreshments and informal conversations in a friendly atmosphere, encouraging further interaction and integration within the international academic community.

The Welcome and Integration Meeting was one of the activities organised as part of the “Welcome Point – PULS space, your space” project, implemented under the “Welcome to Poland” programme, pursuant to Agreement No. BPI/WTP/2025/1/00041.

The project is co-funded by the European Union under the European Funds for Social Development 2021–2027 (FERS) programme, with the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) acting as the Intermediate Body.

International Relations Office