Bangor University is looking to eliminate approximately 200 positions in order to achieve £15m in savings, the vice-chancellor informed staff via email. Vice-Chancellor Edmund Burke explained that a decline in international student numbers, increased expenses, and alterations to national insurance by the UK government necessitated “unprecedented” adjustments. Meanwhile, the University of South Wales also revealed its intentions to cut 90 jobs on Wednesday.
Numerous universities across the UK are grappling with financial difficulties and are compelled to implement job cuts, such as Cardiff University’s plan to eliminate 400 positions. With an estimated 10,000 students and approximately 650 academic staff members, Bangor University is considering extending the voluntary redundancy scheme to non-academic staff. The vice-chancellor acknowledged the possibility of compulsory redundancies in the future.
The vice-chancellor highlighted the challenges faced at a sector level, citing decreased student intakes in autumn 2024 compared to the previous year. He emphasized the importance of international income for universities, particularly in light of reductions in immigration levels impacting international student numbers. To mitigate expenses, the university has already relocated staff from certain buildings that are set to be sold off.
Additionally, the University of South Wales is set to reduce its workforce by 90 employees as it addresses financial constraints within the higher education sector. The institution plans to close several courses upon completion by current students and shift focus to specific research areas. Welsh Minister Vikki Howells has urged universities to explore all possible avenues, including utilization of financial reserves, to prevent job losses
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