The Indoctrination of Academic Communities at Polish Physical Education Universities, 1950–56

Following World War II, the Communists took control of physical education universities, subjecting the academic community – particularly the youth – to indoctrination between 1950 and 1956.They created a selection system to facilitate access to studies for working-class and rural individuals. This system was intended to ensure the recruitment of individuals sympathetic to the communists, i.e. those who owed their social and professional advancement to the party elite. The Communists adapted the curriculum to the new political realities and established new youth organizations, consistently implementing the guidelines of the Party elite. Mandatory participation in ideological training, propaganda campaigns, community service, cultural and educational festivals, and state ceremonies was one element of this policy. Even sporting events were subordinated to political and ideological goals. The authorities demanded not only participation from the academic community in the celebrated events, but also visible enthusiasm. The primary party organization at each university oversaw this process. Academic circles submitted to the authorities, ostensibly accepting the communist system. However, there were teachers and students who supported the ruling party and engaged in propaganda activities.