History speaks through generations so that we can learn to appreciate what we have, namely, our freedom. Memories of the past shape us, build us, and make us who we are, said Prof. Karol Polejowski, Deputy President of the Institute of National Remembrance, during the ceremonial opening of the Congress of National Future in Łódź.

Are you able to talk about yourselves without using the past tense? No, you are not. You will always be referring to something in the past, which, in turn, is a reference to where you come from, what traditions and upbringing you have, and to why this impacts the future. The past is so important because it shapes us, said Prof. Karol Polejowski, Deputy President of the Institute of National Remembrance, to the crowds of young people gathered at the event.

He added that the mission of the Institute of National Remembrance is to present Polish history in a format tailored to the needs of the younger generation. Our response to this challenge, was, among others, the establishment of the New Technologies, Cultural Events, and History Points Offices within the structure of the Institute..

“We use modern forms of teaching because we are responsible for preserving Polish historical memory. We want to restore dignity to those who fought for freedom, but also to educate a new generation of Poles who are aware of their citizenship and descent,” emphasized Prof. Polejowski.

"You will take over from us, and many of you will probably get involved in keeping the memory of Polish history alive. Remembrance is key," concluded Deputy President  Polejowski.

"The Congress of National Future is a space for initiating modern historical education – one that combines traditional patriotic values with high-tech solutions” noted Karol Piskorski, the Director of the IPN Branch Office in Łódź.

He also emphasized that the Congress of National Future is a joint undertaking of the entire Institute – from its headquarters to branches throughout Poland. Thanking the employees for their commitment, he pointed out that young people today are looking for a new language of patriotism, and that it is the task of adults to convey history in a way that is attractive and understandable to Generation Z and Generation Alpha. He noted that love for one's homeland can be expressed not only through struggle, but also through education, sports, and social activities – “you can be a patriot with a tablet in your hand and still be open to the world.”

Adam Pleskaczyński, Ph.D., the Director of the IPN National Education Office summed up the successes of the “Silni Polską!” project, describing it as the largest educational undertaking in the history of the Institute. He emphasized that over 2,500 students participated in the project, forming 252 teams and organizing over 200 local events – from performances, films, and competitions to reenactments and fashion shows. As he pointed out, these activities attracted the attention of not only local communities but also the media.

This unique event is aimed at audiences of all ages – from the youngest to the elderly. Its goal is to present Poland's recent history in an engaging and diverse format: through discussion panels, educational games, multimedia exhibitions, historical reenactments, workshops, performances, programs dedicated to teachers, and meetings with interesting guests.

We offer a journey through history that appeals to both those who remember the events of the 20th century and to young people learning through modern technologies, multimedia, fun, and creative workshops. The program has been designed so that everyone – regardless of age – can find something for themselves.

The initiative to organize the congress is a response to the results of social research commissioned by the Institute of National Remembrance, which revealed the need for a broader and more accessible presentation of Polish history. The event will be an opportunity to reflect on what modern and engaging history education should look like.

We will meet in a place where science, innovation, and tradition combine to show that history doesn't have to be just dates and facts – it can become an inspiration, a source of pride, and a guide for building the future.

We cordially invite you – be our guests!

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