Poland and Switzerland strengthen their cooperation in science, higher education and innovation
15.05.2025
Months of negotiations reached their conclusion in Poznań. A ceremony for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between representatives of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Poland and the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research of the Swiss Confederation took place at the Collegium Minus of Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań. The understanding is the outcome of several months of work by expert teams from both countries and represents a step towards a new chapter in Polish-Swiss cooperation in higher education, scientific research and innovation.
Signed on 15 May 2025, the Memorandum aims to strengthen strategic cooperation between Poland and Switzerland in promoting scientific excellence, ensuring research security and enhancing the impact of science and innovation on socio-economic development. The document highlights the importance of international collaboration based on high standards and the shared commitment of the partners to achieving the goals of the UN 2030 Agenda, particularly in the areas of sustainable development, equal opportunities and digitalisation. The Memorandum was signed at Adam Mickiewicz University by the Polish Minister of Science and Higher Education Marcin Kulasek and the Vice President of the Swiss Confederation, Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin.
“Switzerland is one of Poland’s key partners in the areas of higher education, research and innovation. This is largely the result of historically strong relations and, above all, the excellent cooperation between Polish and Swiss universities, research institutes and other organisations active in the fields of science, research and innovation,” stressed Minister Marcin Kulasek. He added that the partnership will strengthen the research excellence and innovative capabilities of Polish research organisations, universities and businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises which are key drivers of innovation and job creation.
The joint initiatives outlined in the Memorandum cover a wide range of activities, including the implementation of joint research projects, the organisation of conferences, workshops and seminars, as well as the exchange of information, best practices and policy initiatives. It also envisages improved mobility for researchers, students and experts. Moreover, the parties declared their willingness
to share research infrastructure and develop project partnerships under international schemes such as the EU Framework Programmes.
Particular emphasis has been placed on developing cooperation in the fields of engineering sciences, research infrastructure, quantum sciences and space technologies, emerging technologies (such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the Internet of Things), sustainable development, energy and climate, health sciences, as well as humanities and social sciences. This scope can be expanded accordingly, depending on the needs and priorities of both countries.
“It is a real pleasure to be here, in beautiful Poznań, and witness the strengthening of our bilateral relations. Poland is a special partner for Switzerland, a partner with enormous potential. The Memorandum of Understanding we have just signed underlines Switzerland’s commitment to further strengthening our relationship. The document covers joint activities in areas such as materials science, breakthrough technologies, space, life sciences and health, as well as humanities and social sciences,” said Guy Parmelin. The Federal Councillor also congratulated Poland on its EU Council Presidency, noting that it has given top priority to issues such as scientific research and innovation for competitiveness.
