Throughout this academic year, we have been showcasing the achievements of the winners of the Absolwent Extra 2025 competition – exceptional graduates whose passion, commitment, and determination have led them to accomplishments extending far beyond the classroom. Their stories demonstrate that time spent at the University of Zielona Góra can become the beginning of an inspiring academic and professional journey.
In June, we are pleased to introduce two laureates from the Faculty of Engineering and Technical Sciences: Eng. Arch. Wiktoria Maria Papaj and MSc Eng. Filip Kolasa.
Eng. Arch. Wiktoria Maria Papaj
Wiktoria Maria Papaj graduated from the Bachelor's degree programme in Architecture at the Faculty of Engineering and Technical Sciences of the University of Zielona Góra. She is currently pursuing a Master's degree, further developing her academic and design interests.
Already in her undergraduate thesis, she demonstrated a mature and thoughtful approach to contemporary architectural challenges. Her project, entitled “Architectural Design of a Multifamily Residential Complex in Legnica”, combined innovative architectural and structural solutions with the principles of sustainable development and a strong focus on residents' well-being.
The concept was based on minimising interference with the existing landscape by partially elevating the buildings above the ground, thereby preserving a significant amount of green space and creating attractive recreational areas. The project also incorporated cross-laminated timber (CLT), highlighting the dialogue between contemporary architecture and the natural environment.
One of Wiktoria Maria Papaj's most significant achievements is her co-authorship of the scientific monograph MIA100 Lubuskie. Volume I: Zielona Góra, which received the Readers' Award in the Lubuskie Wawrzyny 2024 competition.
Her academic engagement extends well beyond a single project. She is currently involved in the preparation of the second volume of the publication, dedicated to Gorzów Wielkopolski, and is also contributing to research for a forthcoming volume focusing on Nowa Sól.
Her achievements have also been recognised in numerous competitions. Among her most notable distinctions are:
Wiktoria Maria Papaj has also been actively involved in academic life. She co-organised and co-led the “ARCHI-structures” workshops for first-year students, published articles promoting architecture, and presented her work at exhibitions organised by the Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning of the University of Zielona Góra.
She also plays an important role in the activities of the “Fortezza” Student Research Club, where she serves as Treasurer and co-organises scientific, research, and promotional initiatives related to the Architecture programme.
Another important area of her activity is the protection of cultural heritage. She has participated in Park Seminars held in Żagań, Łęknica, and Zatonie and collaborates with the Gorzów Wielkopolski branch of the Association of Polish Architects (SARP) on future research and public engagement projects dedicated to the Lubuskie region.
More information about our graduate can be found on her profile:
MSc Eng. Filip Kolasa
Filip Kolasa graduated with distinction from the Master's degree programme in Computer Science at the University of Zielona Góra.
His Master's thesis, entitled “Motion Capture Technologies Using Inertial Sensors”, was prepared under the supervision of Prof. Alexander Barkalov. The project is an excellent example of successfully combining computer science with elements of engineering and physical sciences.
According to his supervisor, the thesis stands out for its high academic quality and for the author's ability to apply advanced research methods to solving complex technological problems.
Alongside his academic achievements, Filip Kolasa has consistently developed his research activity by publishing his research findings and academic publications on ResearchGate, the international networking platform for researchers and scientists. As a result, his work reaches a broad international audience and contributes to the international research community.
More information about our graduate can be found on his profile:
https://bk.uz.zgora.pl/absolwent-extra-sylwetki-absolwentow/rok-2025/informatyka-filip-kolasa-8.html
During the Absolwent Extra 2025 Gala, held on 17 November 2025, the laureates received their awards from:
