University Staff Say ‘Enough’ – Strike Action Rises Across the UK

RGU, Dundee, Edinburgh See Growing Unrest as Redundancy Plans Unfold

Universities across the globe are grappling with financial and operational challenges that have led to widespread job cuts and restructuring efforts. Declining funding and rising costs have forced institutions to make difficult decisions, sparking debates about the long-term impact on higher education and its dedicated workforce. These challenges are increasingly shaping the landscape of academia. In the United Kingdom, Robert Gordon University (RGU) in Aberdeen has become the focal point of such tensions, as lecturers recently went on strike over planned redundancies. Following 130 voluntary staff departures last year, the university announced the potential for fewer than 60 additional redundancies. This announcement triggered frustration among members of the EIS teaching union, who felt compelled to take strike action, with further strikes planned for May and September. The university’s principal defended the decision, calling it "difficult but necessary" in light of sector-wide challenges.

The ripple effects of industrial action at RGU have extended to other institutions, including the University of Dundee, where staff are protesting against planned job cuts, and the University of Edinburgh, where a strike ballot is reportedly underway in response to proposed budget reductions and redundancy fears. These developments have highlighted the escalating unrest across higher education institutions in the UK. Among those speaking out, Regan Kyle, a lecturer in International Fashion Business at RGU, stressed the importance of supporting colleagues facing redundancy. She acknowledged the anxiety stemming from the voluntary severance process and the distress caused by ongoing rumours over the past year. According to Kyle, long-serving staff are now confronting redundancies, creating an undeniably difficult atmosphere within the institution.

The EIS union reported strong backing for the strike, with 83% of RGU staff who voted supporting industrial action. Garry Ross, EIS national officer, emphasised the need to protect jobs and maintain the quality of education at RGU. He called for the university to explore alternatives to compulsory redundancies while announcing additional strike days on May 1 and 7, with further action planned for September. While RGU attempts to navigate its challenges, Professor Steve Olivier, the university’s principal, reiterated the importance of financial sustainability. He expressed disappointment over the strike but assured continued constructive dialogue with unions to avoid compulsory redundancies, which he described as a last resort.

Meanwhile, the University of Dundee faces its challenges, addressing a £35 million deficit and planning to cut 632 positions, with reports suggesting the number of affected jobs could rise to 700. The Unite union has already announced a strike ballot following a three-week strike by staff in February. According to the University and College Union (UCU) Scotland, 74% of members voted in favour of a walkout, reflecting widespread discontent. Similarly, the University of Edinburgh staff are balloting for strike action due to a £140 million budget reduction and potential redundancies.

These instances of industrial action reflect a broader crisis in higher education as institutions struggle to balance financial sustainability with the welfare of their workforce. While necessary decisions may be unavoidable, a thoughtful approach that prioritises collaboration and minimises harm will be critical to ensuring the resilience of universities. Ultimately, the future of higher education depends on how well institutions and stakeholders navigate these turbulent times.

Editor’s Note:

The wave of strikes and unrest at Robert Gordon University, the University of Dundee, and the University of Edinburgh is a clear signal of the mounting crisis in higher education. Institutions across the UK are facing difficult decisions due to financial pressures, but these decisions are having a profound human impact, disrupting careers, damaging morale, and raising serious questions about the future of education quality. What’s unfolding is not just a budgeting issue; it’s a workforce and wellbeing issue that demands immediate and compassionate attention. University leaders must recognise that sustainability cannot come at the cost of people. Transparent communication, meaningful engagement with staff and unions, and a willingness to explore alternatives to compulsory redundancies are essential. The choices made now will shape not just the future of these institutions but also the wider perception of higher education in the UK.

Skoobuzz believes that while universities must remain financially viable, it is equally important to prioritise the well-being of staff and uphold the core values of education. A fair, inclusive, and people-first approach is critical because when institutions support their people, they secure their future.