Cardiff University, the largest higher education institution in Wales, has announced plans to cut 400 jobs and discontinue several courses in an attempt to address a significant £31 million budget deficit. The proposals, unveiled on January 28, 2023, have sparked widespread concern among staff, students, and union representatives. If approved, the plans would result in a 7% reduction in the academic workforce, with final decisions expected by June following a 90-day consultation period.
The university's financial challenges stem from increased operational costs and a decline in international student enrollments, issues that are impacting the broader higher education sector. Despite having £30 million in reserves, Cardiff University cannot freely access these funds to cover its running costs, which exceeded income by more than £30 million in the last academic year. As part of cost-cutting measures, courses in nursing, music, and modern languages are set to be axed.
A voluntary severance scheme initiated between June and September 2024 saw 155 staff members accept offers. A second round of voluntary severance was completed earlier this month. However, the prospect of compulsory redundancies looms large, prompting the University and College Union (UCU) to consider balloting members for strike action.
"We would like to see the Welsh government and other elected leaders being clear that Cardiff University has a responsibility to not use staff as shock absorbers of poor management on their behalf" – Ms Grady
Cardiff Business School professor, Prof Andrews, is among those affected, having received a redundancy warning letter. He expressed his distress over the situation and its impact on his well-being.
"My mental health has unquestionably been damaged both by the university's announcements and the manner of them" – Prof Andrews
Students also share concerns about their academic futures. Carys Davies, a third-year student, voiced her uncertainty amid the unfolding events.
"It's more concerning for the second and first years, because as a third year, we're close to graduating now, but we really don't know what the future holds at this point" – Carys Davies
The university's proposed cuts have drawn attention to the broader financial issues facing higher education institutions in Wales. The Welsh government has stated there is no additional funding available for universities. Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Vikki Howells is engaging with counterparts in the UK government to discuss potential reforms to the sector.
"Education is a public good and we need these higher education institutions to provide skills and education for the future" – Deio Owen
Prof Andrews highlighted the potential long-term impacts on public services if universities continue to struggle financially.
"The government does have a role to play or we will see a continued decline, where public services will be affected in terms of recruitment of staffing research and supportive elements as well by the way universities" – Prof Andrews
The UCU's threat of strike action underscores the rising tensions between university management and staff. The union is advocating for job security and protection against compulsory redundancies.
