Polish President Andrzej Duda welcomed students from top U.S. universities to the Presidential Palace as part of the 5th edition of the Presidential Internship Program. He highlighted Poland’s significant economic and social transformation over the past 35 years, emphasizing the dynamic development since 1989.
Historical Milestone
Duda pointed out that today’s anniversary marks 35 years since the 1989 parliamentary elections, which were pivotal in reshaping Poland and Eastern Europe. These elections initiated profound socio-economic changes, integrating Poland into the Euro-Atlantic community and aligning it with Western political and economic structures.
Established in 2017, the Presidential Internship Program is a collaboration with the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union in New York, General Electric Company, and its subsidiary GE Aerospace. Recent partners include the Marshals of the Lublin and Podkarpackie Voivodeships and the Polish National Foundation. The program aims to educate American students about modern Poland, showcasing its investment potential, technological innovations, and local government advancements.
Engaging the Next Generation
Eighty American students, primarily from economic and technical fields, have participated in the program so far. Selected for their academic achievements, community involvement, and personal potential, half of the participants are of Polish descent. This year, students will visit various regions, including areas near the Ukrainian border, to observe Poland’s development and its strategic role in supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.