– I am delighted that so many outstanding leaders accepted the invitation of Bialystok University of Technology – emphasises Marta Kosior-Kazberuk, DSc, PhD, Eng., Rector of Bialystok University of Technology. – As a university, we are setting the tone for a global discussion on technologies developed in an ethical and responsible manner. The role of organiser of such an important forum is a great honour for us. It is also proof that our voice matters globally and that the work of our female researchers sets standards for modern management in science.
During the summit, experts discussed the future of technology and the barriers that hinder women’s career development. The topics included deep tech, quantum technologies and dual-use technologies, i.e. technologies with both civilian and military applications. Discussions also addressed issues related to biases embedded in algorithms and the underrepresentation of women in the highest positions in the world of innovation.
– Modern science needs diverse perspectives, and these come from people with different experiences and development paths. That is why it is so important to create spaces where women can develop their competences and confidently take on leadership roles – says Katarzyna Halicka, DSc, PhD, Eng., Vice-Rector for Education of Bialystok University of Technology. – I am particularly pleased that during this year’s summit we took an important step towards launching the Peer-to-Peer Leadership Programme. This initiative is aimed at women aspiring to the highest managerial roles in science, technology and public administration. Its strength will lie in the exchange of experience based on partnership, joint search for solutions and mutual learning – without the traditional division into mentor and mentee. These were two extremely intensive days full of positive energy, inspiring discussions and a sense that together we can truly achieve more. Meetings like these remind us how much strength lies in cooperation and mutual support among women. Because science is female.
The main objective of the 2nd European Summit of Women Leaders in Science and Technology is to create a permanent, recurring platform for cooperation that would serve women leaders from the European Union, the United States, Central Asia and Arab countries not only for exchanging experience, but also for developing practical tools and formulating recommendations.
– The summit is a relatively young initiative, but it is developing very dynamically and gaining importance internationally – notes Dorota Anna Krawczyk, DSc, PhD, Eng., Vice-Rector for International Cooperation of Bialystok University of Technology. – Its greatest value is the opportunity to meet women leaders representing different regions of the world, diverse higher education systems and various professional experiences. Such events demonstrate the importance of intercultural dialogue and mutual learning. During the summit, I also had the opportunity to participate in the Women in Tech Reception organised at the Embassy of the United Kingdom, which brought together women actively shaping the development of science, technology and innovation. It was another valuable opportunity to exchange experience and establish new international contacts. Thanks to such initiatives, internationalisation gains a broader dimension – it becomes not only cooperation between institutions, but above all the creation of global cooperation networks based on dialogue, trust and shared values.
The previous summit was organised by Koszalin University of Technology; however, in 2026, Bialystok University of Technology took over responsibility for organising this event.
The activities of Bialystok University of Technology in Warsaw also included cooperation with the technology sector. The University participated as a partner of the Perspektywy Women in Tech Summit 2026 – the largest conference in Europe for women in the technology sector, held under the theme ‘Unleash New Energy’. More than 400 speakers discussed future-oriented topics across five stages – from artificial intelligence and Vibe Coding, through biotechnology and digital health, to nuclear energy and space technologies.
The conferences took place at EXPO XXI in Warsaw. The leaders’ summit was financed from funds provided by the Minister of Science and Higher Education.
Prepared by: Monika Rokicka
Photos: courtesy of Koszalin University of Technology
