The creation of Independent Students’ Society in Warsaw School of Economics (Szkoła Główna Planowania i Statystyki at that time – SGPiS) of the time took place in 1980, in the autumn. The impetum for creating such structures was Gdańsk Agreement, which legalized “Solidarity” in August 1980. The main target of NZS SGPiS were political and teaching reforms. The other form of activity of NZS members was historical and social self-teaching in academic society spirit.
Organization activists quickly achieved other students’ trust and won all 12 seats available for students to university senate. NZS SGPiS worked closely with university authorities and other students’ organizations such as Socialist Polish Students’ Association, which decided to support the process od democratize Poland. Gathering so many people around, it became easier to promote SGPiS as a university that supports aspirations to PRL fundamental reforms.
The process of integration academic environments was very diversified. There was matches, excursions and debates with opposition activists organized. All of these activities was very popular.
In the autumn of 1981, NZS along with other organizations took part in a strike, caused by events in Bydgoszcz (brutal use of force towards “Solidarity” activists by the police). Strike ended in December 1981, still in the same month authorities announced the introduction of martial law, and SGPiS was forced to suspend its teaching activity. However, students’ life haven’t died, and the integration of oppositional-democratic environments was lasting.
Today the name of the university has changed, but NZS SGH still maintainsvalues, such as freedom and democracy, at the same time being politically objective. Since Poland’s political reform, NZS SGH focuses on charity, sports, business and education. There’s a place for everyone in our organization, who wants to te socially active and wants to become a leader in his community, which may help in starting own business or choosing the right career path. We believe, that thanks to our actions we build the future of our country.
Just like our older friends, we haven’t stopped integrating our community, especially newcomers. We would like to invite you to our summer integration camp Kacwin, during which students have the opportunity to meet new friends, acquaint with university atmosphere and the possibilities offered by students’ organizations.