As we prepare for a historic milestone—the 50th Anniversary of the Association for Teacher Education in Europe—the leaders of our academic community extend their personal invitations. We invite you to read the official opening addresses from the ATEE President, the University Authorities, and the Local Organising Committee.

The ATEE Annual Conference 2026 will be more than just an academic gathering; it will be a celebration of half a century of collaboration, research, and shared passion for education. To mark the beginning of our preparations, the hosts share their thoughts and hopes for the event.

Assoc. Prof. Agnieszka Szplit, President of the ATEE reminds us that the conference’s 50th anniversary is not only a time to celebrate past achievements, but to look ahead with a renewed commitment to shaping the future of teaching. She invites participants to engage in meaningful dialogue at a time when strengthening teacher education is ‘the very foundation of quality learning and equitable societies.’

Representing the host institution, Prof. Mariusz Popławski (Rector of the University of Białystok) and Assoc. Prof. Alicja Korzeniecka-Bondar (Dean of the Faculty of Education) express their gratitude to be hosting such a prestigious international event. They highlight the university’s strong tradition of educational research and invite guests to experience the academic vitality of the Faculty, as well as the unique cultural diversity of Białystok.

The Conference Chair, Assoc. Prof. Marta Kowalczuk-Walędziak, recalls the success of the ATEE Spring Conference hosted in Białystok in 2018. Describing the ATEE as a ‘true professional home,’ she warmly invites colleagues to return to the heart of Podlasie to foster new partnerships and friendships in a community defined by openness.

We invite you to read the full versions of these inspiring welcome messages in the "Welcome" section of our website.