The University of Prešov has achieved a significant academic milestone. Today, the President of the Slovak Republic, Peter Pellegrini, appointed 30 new university professors at a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace. Among them were three representatives of the University of Prešov – Prof. Václav Ježek, Prof. Mária Kardis, and Prof. Gabriela Mikulášková.

The appointment of professors is considered one of the most important milestones in an academic career. In his address, the President emphasized that the title of professor is not only recognition of past achievements but also a commitment to future generations of students and the development of society.

“You are also taking on greater responsibility – for the education and upbringing of future generations, for the condition of the institutions at which you work, and for the quality and standard of our science, arts, and education,” said President Peter Pellegrini.

Prof. Václav Ježek Strengthens the Academic Community in Orthodox Theology

Prof. ThDr. Václav Ježek, PhD. et Ph.D., affiliated with the Orthodox Theological Faculty of the University of Prešov, was appointed Professor in the field of Orthodox Theology. His professional and academic work has long been associated with the development of theological education, scientific research, and international cooperation in this field.

Prof. Mária Kardis Advances Theological Education and International Relations

Prof. ThDr. Mária Kardis, PhD., was appointed Professor in the field of Catholic Theology. She works at the Greek Catholic Theological Faculty and also serves as Vice-Rector for International Relations and External Affairs at the University of Prešov.

In her teaching, she focuses on subjects within biblical studies, including Introduction to the Holy Scriptures, Biblical Archaeology, the New Testament, Exegesis of the New Testament, Biblical Theology, and World Mythologies. She also significantly contributes to the development of the university’s international partnerships.

Prof. Gabriela Mikulášková Among Recognised Experts in Psychology

Prof. PhDr. Gabriela Mikulášková, PhD., from the Faculty of Arts of the University of Prešov, was appointed Professor in the field of General and Experimental Psychology.

She is a certified psychotherapist, lecturer, and co-guarantor of training in systemic psychotherapy. Her research focuses on qualitative research and discourse analysis. She has participated in several national research projects (APVV, VEGA) and the international Daphne programme. Currently, her work focuses on the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s mental health and on the concept of self-efficacy in childhood.

Universities Play a Key Role in Shaping Society

In his address, the President also highlighted the irreplaceable role of higher education institutions not only in education but also in shaping values and cultivating public discourse.

“Universities and higher education institutions are not only centres of education but also carriers of strong moral principles and values. You therefore hold a great opportunity to contribute to the cultivation of Slovak society,” he stated.

He also addressed the challenges brought by the development of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need to prepare younger generations for a world in which AI will be a natural part of life and work.

The appointment of three new professors represents a significant recognition of the quality of teaching, research, and scholarly activity at the University of Prešov. It also confirms the university’s strong position among leading academic institutions in Slovakia.

We warmly congratulate the newly appointed professors and wish them much success in their future teaching, research, and public activities.

Text: Ingrid Timková, Spokesperson of the University of Prešov
Photo: Office of the President of the Slovak Republic