UNISON demands extra government funding to save universities from crisis

Higher education member Bill Acharjee (above) works at Solent University in Southampton as a research governance officer, with the task of ensuring that students and academics maintain ethical standards while they conduct their research projects. He’s thoughtful, conscientious. And while working from home during the COVID-19 crisis, he has a very sobering thought. “A world without universities would be tragic,” he says. “I just can’t comprehend it.” But there’s a very real danger some may struggle to survive, Mr Acharjee feels, if the government continues to refuse to come to the aid of universities during the health crisis and its aftermath. “I’ve read articles that suggest that due to the financial issues that lots of institutions are facing, we may see some universities going into administration. I think we just need some assurance from the government, for them to make a statement to say that they are committed to ensuring the best for the future of HE.” UNISON and its HE members (see below) agree. Today the union launched its Don’t Fail our Future campaign, which is seeking urgent additional funding from the government that will enable universities to survive the devastating financial fallout of the pandemic. Many HE institutions were already in a precarious position due to competition, rising costs and concern around the potential consequences of Brexit. They receive a substantial proportion of their funding based on student numbers – and ...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News coronavirus higher education Covid-19 Source Type: news