Jerzmanowskis' award for Prof. Henryk Skarzynski

The Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences has announced that the recipient of the Erazm and Anna Jerzmanowski Award for 2025 is Prof. Henryk Skarżyński, MD, PhD - an outstanding physician, scientist and innovator in the field of otolaryngology, whose achievements have permanently changed the standards of hearing impairment treatment in Poland and around the world.

Prof. Skarzynski was the first in Poland to perform cochlear implant surgery on a completely deaf person, giving him a chance to contact the world of sounds. He developed an original method of detecting and treating hearing defects in children, and his scientific, clinical and educational activities have been repeatedly recognized both at home and abroad.

He is the founder and director of the Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing, which houses the World Hearing Center - one of the most important audiology centers in the world, combining research, educational and clinical functions. Over the years, he has also carried out extensive international activities - including coordinating the "equalization of opportunities for children with communication disorders in European countries" program.

The Erazm and Anna Jerzmanowski Prize, established in 1908 and renewed in 2009, is considered one of the most prestigious scientific awards in Poland. It is awarded to individuals who, in accordance with the founder's will, have served their homeland with their scientific, literary or humanitarian activities and occupy an outstanding place in Polish society. Among its laureates have been Henryk Sienkiewicz, Ignacy Paderewski, Cardinal Adam Sapieha, Janina Ochojska, Jerzy Owsiak and Krzysztof Penderecki.

This year's ceremony was held, according to tradition, in the Senator's Room at the Wawel Royal Castle. The partners of the event are the Malopolska Region and the City of Krakow.

Source: Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences