"I was thinking about whether to break my leg." Students detailed their experience with the behavior of a well-known professor
Students from Masaryk University have shared troubling accounts of the behavior of a history professor, leading to his suspension amid allegations of manipulation and inappropriate conduct.
At Masaryk University, concerns have been raised regarding the behavior of a Czech-Swiss history professor, who faced internal investigations by the university ombudswoman. Following numerous complaints about his alleged inappropriate conduct, Dean Irena Radová decided to terminate his employment. Reports from students and staff detailed patterns of manipulative behavior, coercion, and personal disputes affecting the classroom environment, which led to significant discomfort among students.
Multiple sources have corroborated claims made to Deník N, stating that the professor exhibited stigmatizing and degrading behavior towards his students while favoring select individuals. This led to a negative educational atmosphere, as students felt pressured and undermined. Last week, similar experiences were reported by sources connected to the art history seminar, further emphasizing the systemic issues arising from the professor's conduct. University officials faced mounting pressure as these revelations came to light.
In contrast to the criticism faced by the professor, many students and academics have rallied in his defense, opposing both the suspension and the handling of the situation. They argue that the professor's contributions to the university and the academic environment are being overlooked amidst the allegations. This conflict highlights the broader challenges within academic institutions regarding handling allegations of misconduct and creating a safe learning environment for students, balancing the rights and experiences of all parties involved.