Towarzystwo Salezjańskie wobec wyzwań edukacyjnych w latach 1918-1939

Abstract

After regaining its independence in 1918, Poland commenced a long-lasting reconstruction of the state structures. The legacy of three partitions significantly hindered this process. The Salesian Company, together with the whole society, participated in the creation of schools and protective structures. Until 1918, the Salesians could only realize their charisma within the territory annexed by Austria. One of the first activities of the Company after 1918 was opening secondary schools. This was done at the request of the authorities and the Polish society. A majority of those schools were created in the twenties. Some struggled with many problems, such as lack of properly qualified personnel or financial difficulties. Despite many problems, the schools enjoyed rather a good reputation in the Polish society and facilitated acquiring the secondary education for a large number of Polish youth.