Dundee University asked for further evidence of engagement by Scottish Government over job cuts

Dundee University has been asked to demonstrate further evidence of engagement with trade unions and students over new job cut proposals.

Earlier this month, the university announced that a further 190 jobs will be cut as it continues to struggle with a financial crisis.

More than 600 people have lost their jobs since the institution began cost-cutting in August 2024.

The university says it needs to make £20m in savings.

The Scottish Government said that a multi-million pound rescue package was provided by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) on the basis that engagement with unions and the wider university community would be undertaken.

However, in a statement on Wednesday, education secretary Mairi McAllan said further evidence was needed that the institution was engaging with staff and trade unions.

Following a meeting with trade unions, the SFC and local MSPs, McAllan said: “I recognise the significant stress and anxiety being felt by staff and students at the University of Dundee, and I am grateful to trade unions and local representatives for their candour in sharing their views and concerns.

“The University of Dundee is an autonomous institution and it must support the university community to recover from the unacceptable, financial mismanagement that caused the financial crisis.

“However, the Government must protect the significant public investment by ensuring the conditions of funding and fair work principles are fully adhered to.

“There are clear conditions the University of Dundee must continue to meet to satisfy the Section 25 order set out by the SFC.

“This includes proper, meaningful engagement with staff and trade unions.

“To be assured that the university is complying with conditions and before any decisions on the release of public funding are made, the SFC will be requiring the university to demonstrate further evidence of how it is engaging fully with its community, including with staff and students, and with its wider civic community as it develops its plans for financial recovery.

“The University of Dundee is a vital anchor institution for the city of Dundee and for Scotland.

“The Government is clear we want the university to thrive and flourish into the future, and the SFC will continue to support the institution as it develops its strategy for recovery.”

The university has been contacted for comment.