History of the Institute of Computer Science

The origins of the Institute of Computer Science can be traced back to 1954, when the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science, which was then known as the Institute of Mathematics, was established. This was the first official effort to develop mathematics and computer science in the region.

In 1987, the Department of Computer Science and Logic Applications was established, headed by Associate Professor Urszula Wybraniec-Skardowska. A year later, the Department added its first computer laboratory, equipped with modern IBM computers, which enabled further development of research and education in computer science.

In 1993, under the new leadership of Dr. Wieslaw Szwast, a graduate of the University of Wroclaw, the Department of Computer Science and Logic Applications changed its scientific profile and name to the Department of Computer Science, focusing on modern information technologies.

In 1994, as a result of the merger of the Silesian Insurgents Pedagogical University and the Theological and Pastoral Institute in Opole, the University of Opole was established, which was important for the development of the entire university, including the Department of Computer Science.

In 2004, the Department of Computer Science moved its headquarters to Czaplaka Street, where the new space was adapted thanks to EU funds obtained under the project entitled “Establishment of a computer laboratory with telecommunications infrastructure at the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science of Opole University.” The project was carried out with a budget of more than PLN 1.4 million.

A year later, in 2005, the Department of Computer Science was divided into two separate departments: Department of Applied Informatics, headed by Włodzimierz Stefanowicz, and Department of Computer Science Basics, managed by Prof. Jacek Cichoń.

In 2008, the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science was separated from the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. During this period, intensive preparations began for the launch of the Department of Computer Science for engineering and second-degree studies. These projects were partially financed by the European Social Fund under the Human Capital Operational Program, implemented through the “With a Diploma for Success” initiative.

In 2009, there was a re-merger of the computer science departments into a single Department of Computer Science, headed by Dr. Lidia Tendera, Prof. UO. That same year, 109 students were enrolled in the engineering program and 113 in the master’s program. The first graduates of these studies received their master’s degrees in 2011.

In 2018, the Institute of Computer Science was officially separated from the former Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science. Currently, the Institute has 24 research and teaching staff, and its main activities include conducting scientific research and organizing the teaching process at the Faculty.