On 15 May 2025, the University of Rzeszów had the honour of welcoming a distinguished guest – the Consul General of the Republic of Austria. During the visit, the Consul met with His Magnificence the Rector of the University of Rzeszów, Professor Adam Reich.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss prospects for developing cooperation between the University of Rzeszów and scientific and cultural institutions in Austria. Topics of discussion included the potential for joint research projects, academic exchange of students and faculty, and the organisation of educational and cultural events.

Mr Martin Gärtner, MA, Consul General of the Republic of Austria, attended an event hosted by the University’s Austrian Library, where he delivered a brief lecture prior to the screening of the documentary film “Julius Madritsch. Righteous Among the Nations” (directed by Piotr Szalsza, produced by Zofia Beklen). The event was organised in cooperation with the Wiener-Krakauer Kultur-Gesellschaft (Vienna-Krakow Society for Culture) and the Consulate General of the Republic of Austria in Kraków.

The film presents the story of Austrian entrepreneur Julius Madritsch, who between 1940 and 1944 employed approximately one thousand Jews in his sewing workshops in Kraków and the surrounding area. With the support of two fellow Austrians, he was able to save hundreds of lives. In 1964, Madritsch and his two colleagues were honoured by Yad Vashem with the title of Righteous Among the Nations.

The screening served as a starting point for an engaging discussion between the Consul General and students from various fields of study.

The visit of the Consul General marked an important step in strengthening the University of Rzeszów’s international relations and highlighted the institution’s growing role as a significant partner in the European academic landscape.