Friday 09-10-2026 - 15:20

We are deeply concerned that the student experience at Glasgow Caledonian University continues to be affected by the ongoing dispute between the University and Trade Unions because of the continued progress of Targeted Voluntary Redundancy Scheme, otherwise known as Programme for Change.

We want to be clear that we are aware that 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, we 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.

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 continues to take place alongside the consultation already happening with staff and Trade Unions. We encourage all students to attend any meetings we have organised with the University to raise their concerns and ask questions, and feel free to engage with staff on picket lines.

As per the policy, which was approved by Student Voice, our democratic decision-making body, 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 have and will continue to contribute to the Future Framework for Universities, co-created by Scottish Government Ministers and Universities Scotland, to secure the long-term financial sustainability and success of Scotland's higher education sector up to 2045.

We also recognise that this ongoing industrial action between the University and Campus Trade Unions can cause concern for many students. Any GCU student needing support can reach out to our Advice Centre. We have been lobbying the University for travel compensation for students affected by industrial action and will educate students on their rights.

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:

Chinaenyenwa (Nelly) Ugo (Student President): president@GCUstudents.co.uk

Onyinye Nweze (Vice President GSBS): vp.gsbs@GCUstudents.co.uk

ThankGod Obiani (Vice President SHLS): vp.shls@GCUstudents.co.uk

Hamza Siddiqi (Vice President SSE): vp.sse@GCUstudents.co.uk