President Appoints 30 Professors, Mentions Importance of Instilling Values

Bratislava, 3 June (TASR) - President Peter Pellegrini appointed 30 new professors on Wednesday, presenting appointment decrees to academics working in the fields of medicine, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, the humanities, economics, theology and the arts at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava. In his address, the head of state emphasised that the degree of professor brings with it not only responsibility for the education and upbringing of young people, the condition of universities and the level of science; the academic community also plays a significant role in shaping values and the social atmosphere. "Universities and colleges are not only educational institutions but also bearers of firm moral principles and values. You thus hold in your hands a tremendous opportunity to contribute to the gradual cultivation of Slovak society," stressed Pellegrini. According to the president, the country's success will increasingly depend on how well it can develop and utilise the potential of its own people. Attention must also be paid to the development of artificial intelligence, which, in his view, is fundamentally changing education, working life and the functioning of society. He therefore believes that it is essential to teach young people to use this tool competently and responsibly. The head of state also believes that Slovak universities will continue to educate experts capable of contributing to the country's development. am/df