Poly-World Mission 2006

Why Poland and Czech Republic?

Fallowing the changes of 1989, Poland and the Czech Republic have gone through many political, social and economical disruptions. The introduction of democracy, the transition from a planned economy to a market economy and the launching of vast structural reforms are achievements of which Poles and Czechs can be very proud. The transition management, the emergence of a profitable private sector and the attractions of foreign investors are interesting aspects to study about these countries.

Since May 1st, 2004, Poland and the Czech Republic are part of the European Union and are in the process of integrating the Euro zone. Indeed their entrance in the EU brings many advantages to the Czech and Polish companies. They hope for the opening of the lucrative western markets but at the same time must protect themselves against a competition more present in the other countries of the EU. In addition, new legislations are organized, companies have access to new grants and support programs for research, the craft industry, small businesses, etc. In a globalization and market opening context, a technological mission in Poland and the Czech Republic appears to be the best way to learn how these countries are adapting to these changes. In addition it could help companies from here to take advantage of the expansion of commercial exchanges and markets of Central Europe.

An overview of Poly-World

We live in a world that is strongly influenced by the emergence of new markets, driven more and more by international cooperation and the globalization of technologies. Today’s engineers therefore need to be aware of the industrial sectors developing internationally. Likewise, an enterprise wishing to expand its operations requires a detailed knowledge of the latest developments in the international markets.

Sharing this view, a group of students from École Polytechnique de Montréal decided to create a mission allowing them to participate in industrial tours in Quebec and beyond. Thus Poly-Monde was born. Now in its 17th year, this project unites scores of students wishing to enrich their knowledge about international technology and industry. So far, Poly-Monde has visited Japan, Germany, Scandinavia, Italy, United-Kingdom, France, the American West Coast, Benelux, South Korea, Spain, Brazil, Switzerland and China. Participation in one of these missions means discovering the main sectors of activity in the chosen region and gaining experience in the dynamics of a global market. Upon the students’ return, a detailed written report is constructed which can be a very useful tool for the local enterprises involved. This year, Poly-World has elected Poland and Czech Republic as their studied country.

To be fully prepared for their mission, the Poly-World members follow two courses: «Technology and international competition I and II». The course outlines include theme studies and discussions on the selected country and its important sectors of activity. They also learn how to analyze the major commercial agreements impacting the industries concerned.

The Poly-World members accept total responsibility for their mission. They must find the required funding, organize the industrial tours in Quebec and abroad, and plan all other logistics for the trip.

Itinerary

Poland

1. Warszawa (Warsaw) (1,8 M people)

   Poland’s capital, third European building site, political, industrial, commercial and cultural metropolis. The city is on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

2. Lódz (0,8 M people)

   Second city of Poland, Lódz is an important scientific and cultural center. There are numerous pharmaceutical and textile factories.

3. Poznan (0,6 M people)

   Commercial and industrial center. The city is well known for its international fairs.

4. Wroclaw (0,6 M people)

   The fourth most important city of Poland, it is the industrial, administrative and cultural center of the rich Slaskie region.

5. Czestochowa (0,3 M people)

   Annual pilgrimage place for almost five million Catholics to celebrate the Black Madonna.

6. Katowice (0,4 M people)

   One of the biggest industrial centers in Europe with many mechanical and chemical plants. There are over fifty coal mines and a dozen of steel facilities.

7. Kraków (Cracow) (0,8 M people)

   Before Warszawa, Kraków was Poland’s capital. Considered like one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it is an important cultural center in which numerous historical moments took place.

Czech Republic

1. Brno (0,4 M people)

   Second most important city in the Czech Republic, Brno is an economical, scientific and center, well-known for its international fair.

2. Praha (Prague) (1,2 M people)

   The city of a hundred spires is one of the most beautiful cities in the world! It’s the capital and the heart of the country, the “mother of all cities”. Since 1992, it is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

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