Three AAU Students Nominated for the 2026 Jan Opletal Awards

Three AAU students—Gvantsa Machitidze, Bogdan Trukhachov, and Marko Viliam Palo—have been nominated for the 2026 Jan Opletal Awards, the Czech Republic’s highest student distinction recognizing young people who make exceptional contributions to their communities.

Presented by the Student Chamber of the Council of Higher Education Institutions (SK RVŠ) since 2004, the awards recognize individuals who promote human rights, defend freedoms, challenge discrimination, and advocate for equal opportunities.

Gvantsa, an International Relations & Diplomacy student, was nominated for her academic achievements, active involvement in university life, and dedication to supporting fellow students. As an AAU Student Mentor, she helps students navigate challenges throughout their studies, contributing to a supportive campus community.

Bogdan, a student from the School of Business, was nominated for his work with Prague Pulse, a platform connecting international students, Erasmus participants, and expats with news, events, and community stories in Prague. His nomination highlights his commitment to human rights, responsible reporting, and combating misinformation.

Marko, a student from the School of Business, was also recognized for his contributions to Prague Pulse, particularly its role in helping international students feel informed and connected. His nomination emphasizes his advocacy for human rights, efforts to raise awareness of injustice and discrimination, and commitment to verifying information.

The Awards Committee will select three finalists in each category, followed by a second round of voting to determine the winners. The awards are generally presented on November 11, the anniversary of Jan Opletal’s death.

AAU congratulates Gvantsa, Bogdan, and Marko on their nominations and recognizes their contributions to the university and Prague’s wider international community.

View the full list of nominees here.