The 7th International RESCUE Conference Begins in Bydgoszcz
Today in Bydgoszcz, the 7th edition of the International RESCUE Conference dedicated to water rescue, safety, and the cooperation between science and practice officially commenced. The event, organized by the University of Economy in Bydgoszcz (Wyższa Szkoła Gospodarki, WSG), has for years gathered experts, practitioners, and enthusiasts from around the world, providing a platform for the exchange of experience and the development of international partnerships.
The conference was officially opened by Prof. Aleksander Skaliy, who welcomed numerous guests from Poland and abroad, emphasizing that Bydgoszcz, the Kuyavian-Pomeranian region, and Poland are becoming increasingly recognized as a hub for international water rescue.
“I would like to warmly welcome representatives of rescue organizations from Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, India, Zambia, Cambodia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Welcome!” – said Prof. Skaliy.
Following the opening, Prof. Marek Chamot, Rector of WSG, addressed the participants, highlighting that the conference serves as a space for mutual learning, building bridges of understanding, and fostering a universal system of international cooperation.
“The responsibility for life, health, and safety is our shared mission,” the Rector underlined.
An International Community of Rescuers
On behalf of the International Life Saving Federation of Europe (ILSE), Dr. Dirk Bissinger, President of the Federation, expressed his appreciation:
“I am delighted to be back in Bydgoszcz. From a European perspective, we are very pleased that such a conference takes place. We want to participate and contribute to its development,” said Dr. Bissinger.
In his speech, he also paid tribute to Dr. Klaus Wilkens, an outstanding water rescue leader and lifelong advocate of lifesaving, who passed away earlier this year.
“Today we see photos of people who are no longer with us. These are great names in the world of water rescue. They all encouraged us to continue this mission,” he said with emotion.
At the initiative of the organizers, the family of the late Dr. Klaus Wilkens has agreed that the RESCUE Conference will bear his name, commemorating his exceptional contribution to the development of international lifesaving.
Representing the Polish water rescue community, Maciej Banachowski, President of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian WOPR (Volunteer Water Rescue Service), emphasized the importance of cooperation and preventive measures:
“We strive to ensure that water rescue in our region operates at the highest level. Thanks to preventive efforts, the number of drownings continues to decrease,” he said, adding that as a graduate of WSG, he feels particular pride in addressing such an international audience.
Patronage and Recognitions
The conference is held under the patronage of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivode. On his behalf, Sławomir Szymański, Director of the Department of Security and Crisis Management of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship Office, took the floor, emphasizing the symbolic significance of the conference venue – the Mill Island – and the role of water in public safety systems.
“What matters most are meetings and the exchange of experience among those who dedicate their lives to helping others,” Szymański noted.
Prof. hon. Krzysztof Sikora, President of WSG, underlined that the RESCUE Conference represents a platform of responsibility and solidarity among people from around the world.
“Water connects us all – it fascinates, yet teaches humility. Shared understanding is the foundation of safety,” he said.
During the inauguration, awards in the form of a silver medal of St. Jack Odrowąż WOPR were given to people who support lifeguards and the Chełmno WOPR branch in particular. The awards were presented by: Franciszek Trzciński - President of the Board and Adam Mazurkiewicz - Vice President of the Branch. Honours were awarded to:
The honorees included:
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Dirk Bissinger, PhD President, International Life Saving Federation of Europe
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Prof. Aleksander Skaliy, PhD University of Economy in Bydgoszcz
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Paweł Błasiak, President of the National WOPR Board
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Prof. Andrzej Ostrowski, PhD, University of Physical Education in Kraków
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Prof. Arkadiusz Stanula, PhD, University of Physical Education in Katowice
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Dariusz Buchaniec, PhD, University of Economy in Bydgoszcz
A particularly special moment of the ceremony was the presentation of a Medal of Merit from Osh State University (Kyrgyzstan) to Prof. Krzysztof Sikora, President of WSG, by Prof. Kudaiberdi Kozhobekov, Rector of Osh State University.
Looking Ahead
As the speakers emphasized, the upcoming days will feature two days of panel discussions and a third day dedicated to practical workshops – providing a unique opportunity to deepen knowledge, exchange experience, and strengthen cooperation in the field of water safety.
YouTube broadcasts — First day, Second day
