Mr Józef is preparing for his matura exam the analogue way – without a computer, smartphone or internet. He studies from textbooks and exercise books, and listens to recordings on magnetic tapes while learning. He knows this is an unconventional approach, but it makes sense to him: it helps him focus on what is truly important. Moved by his determination, teachers from Kalisz give him free lessons.
He failed to pass the matura exam in Kalisz twice. This time, he is facing another examination – in Bolesławiec. He hopes that he will encounter kindness and understanding in this city. He says he is counting on a more favourable attitude, because everyone who approaches an exam with full determination deserves a chance.
Mr Józef was born in 1939 near Turek. During the war, he and his mother were sent to a prisoner-of-war camp. During the Stalinist era, he completed vocational school, specialising in machining. He worked at the Carpet Factory in Kowary and later spent 20 years as a bus driver in Jelenia Góra and as a firefighter in Kowary.
For years, he also had one dream: he wanted to become a traffic police officer. However, one thing stood in his way – not having passed the matura exam. That is why, despite the passing years, he is returning to this goal. At the exam, the 87-year-old will be given extra time. He will take it with a group of examinees with disabilities. Thanks to a doctor’s certificate confirming vision problems, he will receive more time to write and be allowed to use a larger font. He will take the exam in a smaller room, with a smaller group.
We wish Mr Józef success and hope that the City of Ceramics will prove to be a lucky choice for him.