Government must not allow universities to fail during the coronavirus outbreak, warn unions

Universities must be given extra protection during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure their financial survival because of their vital contribution to the economy, local communities and crucial medical research, unions are warning the government today (Tuesday). In a joint letter to higher education minister Michelle Donelan, five unions representing higher education (HE) staff ask for urgent assurances that universities will not be allowed to go under as a result of the outbreak, backed up with legislation. UNISON, University and College Union (UCU), GMB, Unite and the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) say the sector is too valuable for any institutions to get into financial difficulties and will play a key role in rebuilding the country. Some universities are the biggest employer in their area and whole communities are reliant on them, the unions say, with the HE sector employing around 750,000 people. In addition to biological research, their work is key to understanding the impact of the outbreak on society, psychologically and economically. The letter says: “The higher education sector is vital in addressing this current crisis. University research is central in developing tests for the illness and antibody tests, in tracking Covid-19, in developing vaccines and carrying out medical research. “A stable and well-resourced higher education sector will be vital in getting through this crisis. “The university sector is one of the most productive and important parts ...
Source: UNISON meat hygiene - Category: Food Science Authors: Tags: News Press release coronavirus higher education ruth levin universities Source Type: news