The Mozarteum University awarded this title for the first time in its history. The decision was made in 2022 when Kalesnikava was in a Belarusian prison, but she was only able to personally accept the title now.
Maria Kalesnikava accepted the title of honorary professor at the Mozarteum University in Salzburg, Austria, according to ORF.
The university awarded her the title four years ago. Maria learned about this from a letter from her sister, Tatsiana Khomich. This was the last message she received before her prolonged isolation.
"This letter connected me with my family, music, and people outside the prison walls. It reminded me that people think of me and that I still belong to this world," Kalesnikava said during the ceremony.
Mozarteum Rector Constanze Wimmer noted that Kalesnikava became the first honorary female professor in the university's history. According to her, this title is now inextricably linked with the name of the Belarusian flutist and political activist.
In the future, Kalesnikava will frequently visit Salzburg. She plans to teach at the Mozarteum and work on her doctoral dissertation there.
Addressing the students, Kalesnikava recalled the moment in 2020 when Belarusian security forces tried to forcibly deport her from the country, but she tore up her passport at the border and remained in Belarus.
"Sometimes there is little time to make a decision, and the pressure and fear are immense. In a room where you are forced to make a choice, you might spend 15 seconds. And then for the rest of your life, you will look at yourself in the mirror. I wish you that at such a moment, you will be able to make a decision after which you can look in the mirror without shame," she said.
Mozarteum Professor Kai Oren reminded that more than a thousand political prisoners remain in Belarus.
"Our work is not yet finished. There is currently no progress in negotiations for their release. It is important not to lose sight of this issue," he stated.
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