UCU slams Edinburgh University claims that cuts won’t impact student experience

The University of Edinburgh has been criticised after framing it’s budget cuts as a positive for students.

An email, sent by vice-principal students, Colm Harmon and deputy secretary students, Lucy Evans to students and seen by The Tab Edinburgh said: “We do not intend to diminish the student experience, or your opportunities while at Edinburgh, through this work.”

It goes on to say “In fact, we are committed to quite the opposite – changing our Institution for the positive, improving your learning and educational opportunities.”

These comments come shortly after strike action was held in Freshers’ Week, and a vote is now underway with UCU members on another round of strike action.

The university has been offering voluntary redundancy in order to reduce it’s alleged budget deficit of £140 million.

It was reported in August that around 350 staff have taken this option. The UCU told The Herald that upwards of 1,400 jobs could be at risk from budget cuts.

A number of courses have also been paused for this academic year.

Clair Duncanson, Vice-President of the UCU Edinburgh Branch, told The Tab Edinburgh that “We’ve said all along that the £140million cuts senior managers are planning can’t be made without impacting on the student experience.”

She highlighted that the strikes have been met with student support and solidarity, and that this must be a “wake up call” for the university that the budget cuts are impacting students.

She continued: “[The UCU is] currently re-balloting to ensure that we can continue to oppose these cuts and job losses and to ensure the provision of the courses and teaching students came here to study.

Most Read

A sad update on AJ Owens’ kids, two years after their mum was killed by Susan Lorincz

Ok, here’s exactly what MAFS’ Keye actually does for work after ‘six figure salary’ comments

Scottish girl who faked pregnancy with realistic doll reveals the tragic reason she did it

“The support from students in this dispute so far has been phenomenal and that continued support will be essential in the coming weeks and months as we defend the university’s future.”

Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, told The Tab Edinburgh: “Taking decisive action now is the responsible approach to prevent far greater challenges in the future.

“Engaging openly and listening to our community remains our priority. We are regularly sharing updates on how we are identifying ways to reduce outgoings to sustainable levels, while continuing to deliver world-leading research and exceptional teaching.

“We have been transparent about the savings needed to secure our financial footing. These challenges are not unique to Edinburgh as institutions across the country are facing similar pressures.”

The university’s full email stated: “You will most likely be aware of the significant financial challenges that universities across the UK are currently facing, including here at the University of Edinburgh.

“Weakening income streams, alongside increasing costs, mean almost all universities are taking action to reduce their expenditure enabling them to return to a stable financial position.

“Edinburgh graduates are sought after by employers globally, and we are proud of what you achieve when at the University, and during your careers.

“We cannot be complacent about the financial challenges Edinburgh faces and are also taking steps to ensure we remain in a financially strong position for future generations of students and staff.

“We do not intend to diminish the student experience, or your opportunities while at Edinburgh, through this work: in fact, we are committed to quite the opposite – changing our Institution for the positive, improving your learning and educational opportunities.

“You may have questions about what these changes mean for your studies and research, including how you will continue to be supported to get the very best out of your time at Edinburgh. Below we provide some more details about areas we are focusing on currently.

“Programmes and courses

“It is important to us that you have an excellent educational experience that equips you with the training and skills you need for the jobs of the future.

“Accordingly, we regularly review and refresh our degree programmes and courses, sometimes closing programmes to new students, or changing our course offering to current students.

“This approach ensures your degree evolves as job requirements and employability needs change.

“Recently we have taken the decision to close some programmes and courses, where we have evidence of year-on-year limited interest from applicants, or in areas where we may be offering duplicative programmes or courses across the University.

“When we close a programme or course, we always seek to minimise any impact on applicants and students, and to offer alternative options.

“Our priority remains that you are taught by inspiring lecturers, receive the highest quality teaching, and that your learning is enhanced by timely and effective assessment and feedback.

“Refining our programmes and courses aims to help deliver these objectives, providing staff with the time to help you succeed in your degree.

“Staffing and support

“We know how much you value the academic and professional staff who teach and support you across the University, and that you may be concerned when some staff choose to leave the University voluntarily.

“Please be assured that we always prioritise appropriate levels of teaching support to enable your education.

“We continue to work closely with the Students’ Association so that our plans in teaching and learning are informed by your views. Please share any questions with them, or through your School and programme representatives: We are keen to hear your feedback.

“We have a broad range of wellbeing, academic and careers support available to you. If you are an undergraduate or postgraduate taught student, your Student Adviser will be your first point of contact. For postgraduate research students, please reach out to your supervisor.

“How we support you

“We are committed to transparent communications with staff and students about the challenges facing UK universities, including the steps we are taking at Edinburgh to protect our future.

“We also engage frequently with our joint trade unions. We will continue to keep you informed through regular updates, including providing information about our teaching and learning projects. If you have any questions, please do get in touch.”

Featured image via UCU and The University of Edinburgh.