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Staff start strikes at Heriot-Watt University over job cuts and programme closure

The Union said they are open to talks with management to solve the dispute, but want a firm commitment to rule out compulsory redundancies. 

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Staff start strikes at Heriot-Watt University over job cuts and programme closure
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First day of summer strikes started at Heriot-Watt University as University and College Union (UCU) Scotland members walked out over job cuts and possible compulsory redundancies. 

The six days of action run across May and June while the university court met to look at future plans.

Staff are protesting against job losses in the department of languages and intercultural studies and the possible closure of the Scholar programme, which delivers online learning in schools. 

Earlier in the spring, members voted 74% in favour of strike action on a 70% turnout and staged nine days of strikes.

The Union said they are open to talks with management to solve the dispute, but want a firm commitment to rule out compulsory redundancies. 

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The Union stated that there is hope for progress before June, otherwise more strikes will go ahead during graduation.

The cuts have raised concern outside the university. 

Professional bodies and the German consulate have also raised their concerns. 

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Kate Sang, Heriot-Watt branch president, said: “Staff at the university have again been forced to strike to defend jobs and oppose these cuts. 

“It’s disappointing that the University won’t commit to protecting Scholar and undergraduate German and Chinese at Heriot-Watt especially as it is clear from the reaction outside the university that both are well regarded and highly valued. 

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“There is an opportunity between today and the next strike dates in mid-June for meaningful discussion to end this dispute without resorting to compulsory redundancies.”

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Jo Grady, general secretary at UCU, said: “In the face of widespread opposition from staff at Heriot Watt and the wider community, senior management have up till now prioritised staff cuts above ending the strikes. 

“Despite this, it’s not too late to end this dispute. Before we move into the summer and graduations, the principal needs to meet with the union and rule out using compulsory redundancies at Heriot-Watt.”

A Heriot-Watt University Spokesperson said: “The University is taking necessary action to reduce very low-enrolment courses and reshape provision so that our disciplines remain academically strong, financially sustainable and aligned with student demand.

“Maintaining the right balance of staff, programmes and courses is essential to protecting both the student experience and Heriot-Watt’s long-term future.

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“The University has responded constructively to concerns raised during union discussions while addressing the underlying financial challenges facing both LINCS and SCHOLAR.

“We have proposed a reduced number of redundancies and extended timelines to maximise opportunities for voluntary solutions. These proposals have been rejected by UCU.

“Heriot-Watt remains committed to pursuing redundancy and redeployment through voluntary means and to continuing constructive dialogue. However, these redundancies are necessary to secure a sustainable way forward.

“It is particularly disappointing that UCU’s planned industrial action includes the University’s June graduation ceremonies, a significant celebratory milestone for students and their families and carers.”

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