The University of South Wales is set to launch a consultation this week to review its academic provision, as Cardiff University plans to cut 400 jobs amid financial pressures. In response, Vikki Howells, the Welsh government's minister responsible for higher education, announced an additional £19 million for the sector. However, the funding is primarily designated for estate maintenance and digital projects, with only £500,000 allocated to support international recruitment and promotional activities.
Cardiff University, despite having financial reserves, faces constraints as these are not equivalent to readily available funds. Vikki Howells has urged universities, including Cardiff, to consider utilizing their reserves to prevent job cuts. Bangor University is also planning significant reductions, aiming to cut approximately 200 jobs to achieve savings of £15 million.
"I've made it really clear to each Vice-Chancellor when I've met them individually and collectively that we in Welsh government want to see job losses as a last resort." – Vikki Howells
The newly announced funding by Howells primarily comprises capital cash earmarked for building projects. Despite this financial injection, critics argue it will not suffice to resolve the broader financial challenges faced by Wales' higher education sector. Gareth Lloyd expressed concerns about the adequacy of the funding in addressing these issues.
"Unfortunately, and whilst we are grateful for the minister's efforts, the amount offered will still not be enough to stabilise the sector." – Gareth Lloyd
The minister has engaged in multiple discussions with Cardiff University's Vice-Chancellor Wendy Larner, including a scheduled meeting on Thursday, to address these pressing concerns. Howells emphasized that while not all financial reserves are easily accessible, universities should explore their use to minimize job losses.
"Not all of them [reserves] are easily accessible but I do think it's something each university should be considering and other universities have done that in the past to minimise job losses." – Vikki Howells
The University of South Wales and Bangor University are also evaluating their academic provisions alongside considering potential job cuts. The Welsh government maintains that job losses should be a last resort and continues to explore ways to support the sector financially.
"I'm really pleased I've been able to secure it forward for the sector." – Vikki Howells
