Dundee University has revealed plans to cut 632 jobs, approximately 20% of its workforce, in response to a £35 million deficit.
This drastic measure is attributed to “gross financial mismanagement,” according to Unite, the union representing many of the affected staff.
Unite has condemned the cuts, stating that compulsory redundancies will not be tolerated and that all options, including industrial action, will be considered to protect jobs.
The union emphasises that the university’s very existence is at risk, which could have severe economic impacts on Dundee.
Unite also highlights broader sector issues, including inadequate funding and financial mismanagement, calling for immediate government action to stabilise the situation.
The Scottish Government has allocated additional funds to support universities, but Unite argues that more substantial measures are needed.
Alison MacLean, Unite lead officer for further and higher education said: “The proposal to axe hundreds of jobs with Dundee university openly admitting that many will be on a compulsory redundancy basis will not be tolerated by Unite in any circumstances.
“We will fight for every job every step of the way. Unite will immediately consider every option open to us including balloting our members for industrial action.
“The Scottish government need to step in to stabilise the situation at Dundee university because there are massive socio-economic dangers for the city.”
“There are also deeply alarming issues unfolding across the whole further and higher education sector in Scotland including a lack of funding and financial mismanagement which is a contagion spreading from university to university.”
An external investigation into Dundee University’s financial crisis is planned to identify past mistakes and ensure a sustainable future for the institution.
The situation underscores the need for urgent government intervention and better governance in Scotland’s higher education sector.
