Sun May 25 16:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Registration is open for the 2025 World Congress of Naval Architects, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Gdańsk University of Technology’s Shipbuilding Institute and the university’s 121st anniversary. While the event offers networking opportunities, a key discussion point will be the contentious logo and motto changes implemented in the early 2010s. These changes, initiated by a former rector, sparked controversy due to the removal of traditional symbols (Polish eagle, anchor, etc.) from the logo and the adoption of a new motto deemed generic. The decision-making process was criticized for lacking sufficient consultation with alumni, leading to lasting divisions within the university community. The congress may offer a new opportunity to address the issue and find a resolution.

**News Article:**

**Gdańsk University of Technology Gears Up for World Congress, Logo Dispute Set to Resurface**

GDAŃSK, Poland – Registration is now open for the 2025 World Congress of Naval Architects, set to take place at the Gdańsk University of Technology (PG) on June 21st. The event, marking the 80th anniversary of the university’s Shipbuilding Institute and its 121st year of existence, promises a blend of professional networking and discussions on the university’s future.

However, beneath the celebratory surface lies a long-standing debate: the controversial logo and motto changes implemented in the early 2010s.

In 2013, then-Rector Henryk Krawczyk oversaw the replacement of the university’s traditional logo, featuring symbols of Polish identity and maritime heritage, with a simpler, more modern design. He also replaced the motto “Patriae Marique Fidelis” (Faithful to the Fatherland and the Sea) with “History is wisdom – the future is a challenge”. These changes sparked immediate backlash, particularly from alumni and students, who felt the decisions disregarded the university’s rich history and identity. A Facebook group, “Opponents of the new PG logo,” gained thousands of members.

Critics argued that the changes were implemented without adequate consultation and ignored the strong emotional connection many alumni felt to the university’s traditional symbols. A subsequent poll to reinstate the former motto excluded alumni.

“The university has a strong emotional connection for its alumni, like an ‘Alma Mater'”, explained Ireneusz Karaśkiewicz, director of the FORUM OKRĘTOWE Employers’ Union. “The unfortunate way these changes were introduced – decisions made without broader consultation – has solidified divisions and conflict.”

Now, with the World Congress approaching, the issue is poised to resurface. The event presents an opportunity for the current university leadership to address the lingering concerns and potentially seek a resolution to the divisive issue. Whether a new logo and motto will emerge remains to be seen, but the discussion is certain to be a central theme of the Congress.

Registration for the World Congress of Naval Architects is available through the university website.

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