Bratislava, November 10, 2025 – The Bratislava University of Economics and Business today, at a ceremonial meeting of the Scientific Council connected with the meeting of the Scientific Council of the Faculty of Economics and Finance, awarded the honorary scientific degree of Doctor honoris causa to Elena Kohútikova, a prominent Slovak economist, banker and public figure.
The award was given to her for her extraordinary contribution to the development of the Slovak financial system, monetary policy and the integration of the Slovak Republic into European structures, as well as for her long-term support of the academic and educational environment.
By being awarded this title, Ms. Elena Kohutikova becomes the first woman in the history of the Bratislava University of Economics and Business to receive the honorary title of Doctor honoris causa. With this step, the university continues the long-standing tradition of awarding prominent figures in economic, scientific and social life, which have been awarded since 1993, for example, Klaus Schwab, Václav Klaus, Leszek Balcerowicz, former Slovak President Michal Kováč and Franz Vranitzky. Elena Kohutikova's award also symbolizes the recognition of the professional, social and human excellence of a woman who fundamentally shaped the modern Slovak economy.
"Elena Kohutikova is one of the personalities who, with her professional erudition, integrity and human approach, have left a deep mark on the modern history of the Slovak economy," said Ferdinand Dano, Rector of the Bratislava University of Economics and Business. "At the same time, it is symbolically significant for us that she becomes the first woman to be awarded this honorary scientific title by the university. Her professional career and the values she represents - professionalism, responsibility and service to the public interest - are an inspiration for the entire academic community, as well as for future generations of students."
Elena Kohutikova is a graduate of the Bratislava University of Economics and Business (then College of Economics), where she studied finance. She began her professional career at the Research Institute of Finance, worked at the Institute of Economics of the Slovak Academy of Sciences. Since 1994, she has held important positions at the National Bank of Slovakia, including the position of Vice Governor (2000–2006), and later served as Deputy General Director and Member of the Board of Directors of the General Credit Bank.
Elena Kohutikova was one of the key figures in the introduction of the euro in Slovakia, led negotiations with the European Central Bank, the European Commission and represented Slovakia at the World Bank. In addition to her professional activities, she has been involved in supporting education, philanthropy and social responsibility for a long time. She is a member of several professional and supervisory boards, acts as a mentor to young professionals and remains in close contact with her alma mater.
