A new Polish history course in Spanish is launching for Poles living abroad. This unique initiative by the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) is aimed at the Polish in South America. It has already garnered tremendous interest, with over 500 participants from 21 countries, including Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico, enrolling.

The course is part of the KUL Study Program for Polonia and Poles Abroad, managed by the university’s Polonia Center. During the inauguration, KUL’s rector, Rev. Prof. Mirosław Kalinowski, highlighted the initiative’s significance:

“The number of people interested in this course is impressive, which shows that this is a much-needed initiative. We also plan other educational programs that we will implement in South American countries.”

The classes are led by historians from KUL’s Institute of History, supported by specialists of Polish descent based in South America. Witold Starża-Kopytyński, Vice President of the Polish Association in Argentina, is a guest contributor to the project. He shared his perspective:

“For all of us in the Polish diaspora, this is a way to preserve our identity, strengthen our culture, and honor our ancestors. Poland lives within us through its history, and in this way, we keep our roots alive.”

The course is conducted online via the Teams platform and will run until May 2025. Participants meet weekly on Wednesdays. Dr. Wojciech Wciseł, coordinator of the KUL Study Program for Polonia, noted that the project is also gaining popularity beyond South America. In fact, nearly 2,500 individuals from 55 countries have registered for the fourth edition of the study program.
Enrollment for the course remains open until October 14, and more information can be found on the website: polonia.kul.pl.

This initiative by KUL is an excellent example of efforts to help Poles abroad maintain their connection to their homeland, cultural heritage, and history while reinforcing their national identity.

KUL / Family News Service

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