Wednesday 11-03-2026 - 14:25

The Full Time Officer team is deeply concerned by the announcement that Glasgow Caledonian University is introducing a Targeted Voluntary Redundancy Scheme.

We want to be clear that we are not comfortable with the potential impact that staff reductions could have on students and their learning experience. Staff are central to the student experience, and we recognise the dedication and care they bring to supporting students every day. During this uncertain period, students are standing with our staff and will continue to constructively advocate for transparency, meaningful consultation, and the protection of the student experience.

In our ongoing conversations with the University Executive, we have raised a number of concerns regarding the potential impact of the proposed staffing reductions, including the possibility of increased workloads for remaining staff, reduced access to academic and professional support services for students, and the implications of any course changes on students’ studies. We are also seeking clarity on how the University intends to strategically rebuild and grow student numbers in the context of a reduced workforce.

It is essential that students are meaningfully involved in conversations about decisions that may affect their academic journey. We have therefore made it clear to the University Executive that student consultation and consultation with the Students’ Association must take place alongside the consultation already happening with staff and Trade Unions. This includes genuine engagement with our academic reps where courses may be affected by programme suspensions or withdrawals.

We also want to be clear that we strongly oppose any move towards compulsory redundancies.

The Scottish Government must ensure that Further and Higher Education is successful and has a sustainable future. Current funding arrangements in Scotland are inadequate, resulting in these financial pressures. The UK Government must do more to support higher education institutions with the current regulatory requirements for international students.

We also recognise that announcements like this can cause concern for many students. Any GCU students needing support can reach out to the Students’ Association Advice Service or Wellbeing Services within the University.

Through this challenging period, the University has been proactive in engaging with the Students’ Association, and we will continue to engage constructively with the University and represent student interests as further information becomes available.

You can contact your Full Time Officers at:

Tom Tom (Student President): president@GCUstudents.co.uk
Eilidh (Vice President GSBS): vp.gsbs@GCUstudents.co.uk
Chinaenyenwa (Vice President SHLS): vp.shls@GCUstudents.co.uk
Hamza (Vice President SSE): vp.sse@GCUstudents.co.uk