Cardiff University aims to reduce its workforce by 400 and close various degree programs amid financial struggles
Cardiff: Cardiff University is planning to cut 400 jobs and close some degree programs. This move aims to balance its budget. Staff members are shocked and feel the management needs to explain these decisions.
Professor Wendy Larner, the vice-chancellor, stated that tough choices are necessary. The proposed cuts would affect about 7% of the university’s workforce, which is a significant number.
Programs in ancient history, modern languages, music, nursing, and theology might be discontinued. The university hopes to avoid compulsory redundancies unless absolutely necessary.
Currently, Cardiff University faces a projected £28 million deficit this year. Joe Whitfield, a lecturer, expressed that many staff members are distressed by the news.
The proposed changes include reducing the academic staff and merging some schools. For example, they plan to create a School of Natural Sciences by merging Chemistry, Earth Sciences, and Physics.
Professor Larner mentioned a 90-day consultation period for these proposals. She emphasized that the financial challenges facing universities are well-known, especially with fewer international students applying.
She added that the university must adapt to survive. The final plans will depend on feedback from the community during the consultation process.
Gareth Lloyd from UCU Wales pointed out that these cuts reflect a broader funding crisis in higher education. He urged the Welsh Government to stabilize the sector to prevent further job losses.
