On 26 March 2024, the President of the Slovak Republic, Zuzana Čaputová, appointed me, together with 39 other experts in higher education, as a University Professor. The appointment decrees were presented at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava, marking one of the most significant milestones in the academic career of a university teacher and researcher.
In her address, the President emphasized that the title of professor represents not only recognition of previous achievements, but also a commitment to devote oneself fully to education, student development, the cultivation of a high-quality academic environment, and broader societal contribution. She underlined the role of professors as authorities who shape not only professional expertise, but also the critical thinking of future generations.
In Slovakia, the title of professor is often perceived as the pinnacle of an academic career. Personally, however, I see it as the beginning of a new stage, which brings new challenges above all.