On the occasion of the International Mediation Week, the Rector of the University of Rzeszów, Prof. Dr Hab. Sylwester Czopek, ceremoniously signed an order introducing academic mediation at the University of Rzeszów and presented nominations to academic mediators at UR. The University of Rzeszów has joined the group of European universities actively promoting mediation as a method for resolving disputes and conflicts in the academic environment. Academic mediation involves the participation of a third party – a mediator. 

As of October 24, 2023, for the duration of the current term of the rectoral authorities, Prof. Dr Hab. Sylwester Czopek, the Rector of UR, has appointed mediators. 

Observing the demand for such a form of issue resolution, we have come to the conclusion that it should be institutionalized in the form of an order and the appointment of mediators. This will consequently facilitate our further actions. The University of Rzeszów is ready for solutions through mediation. We are open, unafraid of challenges, courageous, and in this courage, we are effective. - addressed those gathered, the Rector of the University of Rzeszów. 

 All the mediators appointed by the Rector of the University of Rzeszów are not only academic teachers with the relevant knowledge and skills in conducting mediation but are also registered on the list of permanent mediators at the District Court in Rzeszów. The appointments were given to: 

- Dr Hab. Aneta Arkuszewska, Prof. UR from the Institute of Legal Sciences UR, Head of the Centre for Mediation and Dispute Resolution UR, a permanent mediator at the District Court in Rzeszów. 

- Dr Jan Gałkowski from the Institute of Sociological Sciences UR, Academic Ombudsman UR, a permanent mediator at the District Court in Rzeszów. 

- Dr Dorota Rynkowska from the Institute of Sociological Sciences UR, a permanent mediator at the District Court in Rzeszów.  

Recent events, such as the pandemic, have resulted in a multitude of difficult conversations. The significant role of the mediators is to prevent the academic community from dividing. - said Prof. Dr Hab. Elżbieta Feret, Vice-Rector for the College of Social Sciences. 

The role of a mediator, who remains impartial and neutral, is to assist in communication between parties and work out a solution acceptable to all. The mediator does not impose solutions, make decisions on behalf of the parties, or resolve disputed issues. It is essential to emphasize that mediation is always voluntary and can only be conducted with the consent of all parties involved. Mediation is also confidential. 

The activities of the academic ombudsman have shown that problems can be resolved through mediation. This is a very good initiative that we can be pleased with - added Prof. Dr Hab. Paweł Grata, Vice-Rector for the College of Humanities. 

According to the Rector's Decree at the University of Rzeszów, the Academic Ombudsman is responsible for ensuring the proper organization of academic mediations. Specifically, they are obliged to maintain and publicize the list of academic mediators appointed by the Rector, provide substantive and organizational support to the mediators in the performance of their duties, and promote academic mediation within the academic community. 

Photo credit: Michał Święcicki