Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Senedd in Cardiff to protest against Cardiff University’s plans to cut 400 jobs and discontinue multiple courses, including nursing, music, and modern languages. The rally, organized by the University and College Union (UCU), called for urgent government intervention as the Welsh government’s draft budget was set for debate.
Higher Education Minister Vikki Howells confirmed that no additional public funding would be allocated to universities, though discussions on sector reforms were ongoing with the UK government.
Why Cardiff University is Cutting Jobs and Courses
Cardiff University has justified the controversial cuts as a necessary step to address a £31 million budget shortfall and ensure long-term financial stability. The proposed changes would result in a 7% reduction in the academic workforce, with plans to merge some academic schools and reduce staffing in key areas such as medicine, business, and Welsh studies.
A 90-day consultation is now underway, with final decisions expected in June. Meanwhile, UCU has announced plans to ballot members for strike action in opposition to compulsory redundancies.
Higher Education Funding Crisis Hits Welsh Universities
Like Cardiff, many universities across Wales are implementing voluntary staff reduction schemes in response to worsening financial conditions, driven by rising costs and declining international student enrollments.
UCU General Secretary Jo Grady criticized the UK’s “unstable” higher education funding model, accusing universities of using budget pressures as an excuse to restructure and cut essential courses. She urged the Welsh government to hold Cardiff University accountable, arguing that the institution has financial reserves that could prevent job losses.
Government Response and the Call for Reform
Higher Education Minister Vikki Howells stated that reallocating funds from critical public services like the NHS, education, or social care was not an option. However, she confirmed that the Welsh government is participating in UK-wide discussions on higher education reforms, addressing key issues such as student finance, international student policies, and competition laws.
Students and Staff Speak Out Against Cuts
Students and faculty have voiced deep concerns over the potential impact of the cuts, particularly on nursing education amid Wales’ ongoing nurse shortage.
Nursing student Carys Davies, from Lampeter, described the decision to cut the program as “baffling and shocking.” She highlighted the uncertainty faced by first- and second-year students, who now have limited clarity on their academic and professional futures.
Former Welsh education minister Leighton Andrews, now a professor at Cardiff Business School, also revealed that he is among staff at risk of redundancy. He expressed anger and disappointment over the university’s approach, acknowledging the mental health toll on affected employees.
What’s Next for Cardiff University?
Cardiff University, Wales’ largest institution with over 32,000 students, insists that budget constraints leave no alternative but to implement workforce reductions. The university stated that £30 million in operational losses from the last academic year must be addressed, with a second round of voluntary severance applications recently completed.
As protests continue, pressure is mounting on university leaders and policymakers to find a sustainable solution that protects jobs, academic programs, and the future of higher education in Wales.
