On February 18, a ceremony was held at the University of Rzeszów to unveil a commemorative plaque commemorating two sit-in strikes by Rzeszów students in 1981. The event was organized as part of the celebrations of the 45th anniversary of the registration of the Independent Students' Association (NZS) – an organization that played a significant role in the fight for student rights, university autonomy, and democratic changes in Poland.

The plaque commemorates events that have left a lasting mark on the history of the academic community in Rzeszów. The first strike, which began in February 1981, was directly related to the demand for the registration of the NZS. The determination and solidarity of the students contributed to the success – on February 17, 1981, the Independent Students' Association was officially registered. It was a breakthrough moment in the history of the student movement in Poland.

The second sit-in strike, which lasted from November 1981 until the introduction of martial law, was an expression of opposition to the restriction of university autonomy and the violation of democratic principles. By engaging in the protest, the students demonstrated courage, responsibility, and commitment to the values of freedom.

The plaque was unveiled by: Dr. Dariusz Iwaneczko, director of the Rzeszów branch of the Institute of National Remembrance, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Rzeszów, Prof. Krzysztof Żarna, Chairwoman of the Regional Section of Education and Upbringing of NSZZ “Solidarność” Bogusława Buda, and Chairwoman of the Independent Students' Association of the University of Rzeszów Daria Węgrzyn.

The ceremony was also attended by former NZS activists, representatives of state and local authorities, representatives of Solidarity circles, as well as numerous guests and members of the academic community.

The event was not only a commemoration of the historic events of 45 years ago, but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of freedom, solidarity, and civic responsibility. The commemorative plaque is a lasting symbol of the courage of Rzeszów students and their contribution to building a society based on democratic values.

fot. Michał Święcicki