University of Glasgow agrees ‘cost reduction measures’

The University of Glasgow is to launch a voluntary severance scheme as part of cost reduction measures amid a decline in the number of international students.

It said its governing body has approved a budget aimed at “ensuring the long-term sustainability of the institution”.

Staff were told of the situation in an email from Professor Andy Schofield, principal and vice-chancellor, who said that the “financial environment is becoming increasingly challenging”.

In the email, he said: “We are currently forecasting a decline in international postgraduate taught students.”

Prof Schofield said the University Court has therefore approved a budget “aimed at maintaining a small underlying financial surplus” and ensuring the university’s long-term sustainability.

He added: “Inevitably, this will have implications for the size of our workforce, affecting both academic and professional services roles.”

It is expected that the voluntary severance scheme will be announced in August.

A University of Glasgow spokesperson said: “The university’s governing body has approved a budget aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the institution.

“It has been agreed that a number of cost reduction measures should be introduced, including the launch of a voluntary severance scheme.

“The university will provide regular updates for colleagues and will do everything possible to safeguard the well-being of everyone across our community.”

It comes as a number of other universities around the country have been experiencing financial challenges, with industrial action taking place at some over proposed cuts.