More than 150 secondary school students from across Poland gathered on 8 June 2026 at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Mikolajki Research Station in Mikołajki for the opening of the 2nd National Session of the Model European Parliament (MEP). The participants were welcomed by Professor Monika Liguz-Lecznar, Deputy Director of the Nencki Institute, and Piotr Jakubowski, Mayor of Mikołajki.

The inauguration marked the beginning of a week-long programme during which participants assume the roles of Members of the European Parliament. Working within thematic committees modelled on those of the European Parliament, students debate key policy challenges facing Europe and draft resolutions proposing concrete solutions for consideration at the European level.

“I am delighted to welcome you to Mikołajki and to the Nencki Institute campus – a place where the rich tradition of Polish science meets innovation and ambition,” said Professor Monika Liguz-Lecznar in her opening remarks.

Addressing the young delegates, she highlighted the essential role of science in shaping responsible public policy.

“Science provides the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about public health, education, environmental protection, technological development and the quality of citizens’ lives. It helps us distinguish opinion from fact, belief from evidence, and aspirations from effective solutions,” she said.

Professor Liguz-Lecznar also encouraged participants to champion science throughout their future civic and professional careers.

“When you become active participants in public life – and I am convinced many of you will – remember that supporting science is not a luxury or an optional extra. It is a prerequisite for a wise state and a responsible democracy,” she added.

Welcoming the participants to the region, Mayor Piotr Jakubowski emphasized the unique setting of the event.

“It is a pleasure to host you in Mikołajki, one of the most picturesque towns in the heart of the Great Masurian Lakes region. I hope you will feel at home here, enjoy your stay and build lasting friendships,” he said.

During the opening ceremony, Professor Liguz-Lecznar also introduced participants to the history and activities of the Nencki Institute. While the Institute’s headquarters are located in Warsaw, its Mikołajki campus serves as a modern research and scientific centre. At the heart of the facility is the National Bioimaging Centre BioPixel, which specializes in advanced biological and biomedical imaging technologies. The centre is part of the Polish Euro-BioImaging Node within the broader Euro-BioImaging European research infrastructure.

The opening programme provided participants with an opportunity to meet fellow delegates and committee members before commencing their formal deliberations. Students also toured the BioPixel Centre and the Research Station facilities under the guidance of Dr Tomasz Janecki, Head of the Research Station.

The Model European Parliament (MEP) is an international educational programme for students aged 16–19 that simulates the work of the European Parliament. Its mission is to deepen young people’s understanding of European decision-making processes and strengthen their awareness as active European citizens. Each year, the organisation hosts two international sessions alongside numerous national and regional events across Europe.