The Scottish Government has called on the University of Dundee to demonstrate stronger engagement with staff, students and the wider community as it works towards financial recovery, following concerns over what has been described as “unacceptable financial mismanagement”.
Education Secretary Màiri McAllan made the comments after meeting campus trade unions, local MSPs and the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) on Wednesday 24 June, amid ongoing scrutiny of the university’s financial position.
Ms McAllan acknowledged the growing concern within the university community, stating: “I recognise the significant stress and anxiety being felt by staff and students at the University of Dundee, and I am grateful to trade unions and local representatives for their candour in sharing their views and concerns.”
While emphasising the institution’s autonomy, she made clear that accountability remains essential where public funding is involved. “The University of Dundee is an autonomous institution and it must support the university community to recover from the unacceptable financial mismanagement that caused the financial crisis. However, the Government must protect the significant public investment by ensuring the conditions of funding and Fair Work principles are fully adhered to,” she said.
The Scottish Funding Council has imposed conditions under a Section 25 order, requiring the university to meet specific standards before any further public funding is released. Central to these conditions is meaningful engagement with staff, trade unions and the wider university community.
Ms McAllan added that the SFC will require further evidence of this engagement before making any funding decisions. This includes demonstrating how the university is working collaboratively with staff, students and civic stakeholders as it develops its financial recovery plans.
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Highlighting the institution’s wider importance, she described the University of Dundee as “a vital anchor institution for the city of Dundee and for Scotland”, adding that the Government remains committed to its long-term success.
“The Government is clear we want the University to thrive and flourish into the future, and the SFC will continue to support the institution as it develops its strategy for recovery,” she said.
The situation continues to be closely monitored by both government and sector bodies as the university seeks to restore financial stability and rebuild confidence among its community.
