Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw

The Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw (AWF) was established in 1929 as the Central Institute of Physical Education. Transformed into a military academic school in 1938, it has borne the name of Józef Piłsudski since 1935. Its history is closely tied to the search for modern solutions in physical education, which began in 1927 during a meeting of the Scientific Council. The building project in Bielany, featuring a distinctive courtyard around a over 50-year-old black poplar, was granted natural monument status in 2009. The ceremonial laying of the cornerstone took place on June 23, 1928, attended by prominent figures, underscoring the institution's importance in independent Poland. Instruction, launched on November 5, 1929, had a military character, combining civilian education with preparation for military service. AWF was one of the first universities to train professional physical education teachers. During World War II, the university faced hardships, and its laboratories and equipment were dismantled. After the war, rapid reconstruction followed, and the institution was transformed into a civilian academy under the new name of Karol Świerczewski. In 1990, its historical name was restored. AWF offers education across three faculties: Rehabilitation, Physical Education, and Physical Education and Health in Biała Podlaska, with programs covering diverse fields such as physiotherapy, tourism, sports, and cosmetology. The university also provides postgraduate and doctoral studies, highlighting its role as a scientific center. Interestingly, in 1959, AWF became the first institution in the country granted the right to award doctoral degrees in the field of physical culture. Rector Prof. Bartosz Molik has led the university since 2020, and the AWF authorities continue to actively shape educational programs with an eye toward the future of physical culture in Poland.