From 2013 to 2023, Poland's higher education researchers increased from 69.03 to 109.15 thousand persons, showcasing an overall upward trend. Notably, the most significant year-on-year growth occurred in 2017 with a 40.69% increase, attributed to potential policy changes or increased funding. This growth spike was followed by a stabilization period with mild fluctuations. Between 2021 and 2023, the yearly growth rates remained around 1.5%, indicating a steady yet moderate increase. The 5-year compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2018 to 2023 stood at approximately -0.65%, reflecting a deceleration compared to previous periods of rapid growth.
Looking ahead from 2024 to 2028, the forecast suggests a consistent rise, with the researcher population expected to reach 116.78 thousand by 2028. This period is projected to have a modest 5-year CAGR of 1.07%, resulting in an overall increase of 5.49% over these years.
Future trends to watch include potential technological advancements influencing research methodologies, changes in government funding policies for higher education, and international collaborations affecting the research landscape in Poland. Monitoring these factors will be crucial in understanding the dynamics of higher education research in the country.
