Green MSP voted Dundee University rector pledges to ‘shine light’ on governance

Scottish Green MSP Maggie Chapman has pledged to “shine a light” on governance at the cash-strapped University of Dundee after winning a vote to become its next rector.

The North East Scotland MSP will take up the position from August 1, 2025, when she will take over from the current incumbent, Keith Harris.

As rector, Chapman will be a member of the university’s governing body and will represent students’ interests in partnership with the university’s Students’ Association.

She was elected to the post by 664 out of the 1,309 students who voted, with her next nearest rival securing 395 votes.

She said: “It is a huge honour to be elected to this role, and I thank each and every person who voted for me, and all those who campaigned for me over this last week.

“I am very grateful to all involved in ensuring the election ran smoothly, including the returning officers and other university staff.

“I thank my fellow candidates for their spirited campaign and for ensuring this contested election not only saw good engagement but also got more students talking about the future of the university.

“I am also grateful to the students and staff who asked me to run, and the students who nominated me.”

The announcement comes as the university struggles to fill a £35 million budget deficit, which it has attributed to a fall in the number of international students and rising costs.

Earlier this week, it emerged that the Scottish Funding Council had approved a £22 million support package for the university in the form of grants and low-cost loans.

It came after the university asked for help in a recovery plan to clear its deficit, with university bosses also seeking to cut 632 full-time equivalent posts in a bid to make savings.

Chapman added: “The situation at Dundee University has become a national scandal.

“Now is the time for a change in the way the university approaches both its governance and management.

“We need to shine a light on decision-making.

“I will not be afraid to ask challenging – and maybe sometimes uncomfortable questions – and will work with students and staff to ensure that we bring everyone into the room to discuss the university’s future.”

She added: “The University of Dundee can, and must have, a bright, inclusive and democratic future, and I relish the opportunity to play my part in creating that.

“Our students deserve nothing less.”

Dr Neale Laker, acting secretary of the university, said, “I offer congratulations to Maggie on behalf of the university.

“Our thanks also go to the other candidates, and all those who have contributed to a well-run election which our students have engaged with at a very high level.”