Students and staff hold virtual rally to oppose schools merger

Students and staff at Dundee University have joined forces to oppose a controversial move to merge schools and cut jobs.

The virtual rally was organised by Dundee University Students’ Association (DUSA).

It saw many speak out against the planned merger of the Schools of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education and Social Work.

Dundee University says the changes, which are still to be approved, are needed and would save £3 million annually amid a time of severe strain on its finances. It would also see 34 job losses.

DUSA says students and staff are desperate to be heard by university management but attempts for meaningful conversations have “fallen flat”.

Scott Quinn, president of DUSA, said: “Students need honesty, transparency and more time to feed into the process.

“We will continue to help students to use their voice, as well represent them in conversations with the university.”

Dr Carlo Morelli, from the University and College Union (UCU) and a lecturer at the university, spoke out at the rally, saying he is completely opposed to the plan.

DUSA has outlined three steps it expects the university to take, including extending the consultation period and hosting a digital session to discuss cost-saving alternatives.

The student body is also asking for a student impact assessment.

The move is part of a wider plan to allow the university to address a forecasted annual loss of £15m.

A spokesperson for Dundee University said: “We are continuing to develop proposals for our Academic Excellence and Structure project.

“This process includes consulting widely with staff, students and stakeholders to refine these proposals, and students have been given every opportunity to make their views known and to contribute to those discussions.”

Lecturer Dr Carlo Morelli.