Bangor University to Cut 200 Jobs Amid Financial Crisis

By Jace February 27, 2025
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Bangor University in Wales has announced plans to cut around 200 jobs as part of a £15 million cost-saving initiative. The move comes in response to declining student enrolments, rising costs, and financial pressures affecting universities across the UK.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Edmund Burke informed staff of the decision via email, citing a 7% drop in home undergraduate intake and a 50% decline in international postgraduate enrolments compared to 2023. He warned that while voluntary redundancies are being offered, compulsory job cuts may become necessary.

Sector-Wide Financial Struggles

Bangor University is not alone in facing financial difficulties. Cardiff University has announced plans to cut 400 jobs, while the University of South Wales (USW) will reduce its workforce by 90 positions. Across the UK, institutions are struggling to balance budgets as tuition fees fail to keep pace with inflation.

The reliance on international student fees has also backfired due to UK government policies aimed at reducing immigration, leading to a sharp decline in overseas enrolments. Prof. Burke highlighted that some universities are now lowering entry requirements to attract more home students, further intensifying competition for enrolments.

Government Response and Funding Challenges

The Welsh government has acknowledged the financial strain on universities and the impact on staff and students. Minister Vikki Howells has urged institutions to explore financial reserves before making redundancies. While she recently announced an additional £19 million in funding for higher education, critics argue it is insufficient to address the crisis.

Meanwhile, Bangor University is implementing additional cost-cutting measures, including relocating staff and selling buildings. Prof. Burke remains optimistic that these measures will restore financial stability.
With uncertainty looming, staff and students at Bangor and other universities across the UK now face an anxious wait to see how deep the cuts will go.

Source: THE INDIAN EXPRESS

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