UHI Perth, a prominent educational institution with approximately 7,000 students and 500 teaching and support staff, is actively exploring options to secure its future amid significant financial challenges. The school was established in 1869 and received its university status in 2011. Now, it is staring a £2 million hole and as it reconsiders its higher education offer at an extraordinary board meeting held on March 3rd.
The persistent fiscal crisis sheds light on one of the biggest trends within the education world. For many institutions, such as UHI Perth, monetary inflation has made their rising operational costs unable to be covered by their funding. Interim chair of the management board Alistair Wylie made the most important point. He explained that UHI Perth is working in very difficult financial circumstances.
UHI Perth offers a diverse range of courses, including maths at National 5 level, HNCs, HNDs, and degrees across various subjects. The institution has not lost its focus or its dedication to the mission of providing access to quality educational opportunities. Wylie reassured stakeholders by stating, “For the avoidance of doubt, the board of UHI Perth has reaffirmed its commitment to both further and higher education, both of which remain central to our mission, while continuing to work in close partnership with the wider UHI partnership.”
Far from being unique, the challenges faced by UHI Perth are a thread in an increasingly fractious tapestry that makes up Scottish higher education. These threats come as the University of Aberdeen, Union of Universities, recently announced £100m in budget cuts. They have to save about £140 million to do so. Unions have denounced this artificial situation as a “manufactured crisis” and accused MDOT of using scare tactics. Tired of the unclear situation, University of Aberdeen branch of UCU is currently balloting. Members are able to vote on whether to take strike action up until May 20th.
In light of these developments in the sector, UHI Perth reassured its community of students and staff regarding its unwavering commitment to accessible education. A spokesperson stated, “We want to reassure students, staff and communities that our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality higher education remains unwavering.”
As UHI Perth continues to navigate these financial challenges, the institution’s leadership remains focused on maintaining its educational standards and exploring sustainable solutions for the future.
