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Aberdeen University staff to cast strike vote over language course changes
https://www.whatjobs.com/news/united-kingdom/uk-employment-news/aberdeen-university-staff-to-cast-strike-vote-over-language-course-changes
By Nithya Bose in UK Employment news, posted January 4, 2024
Aberdeen University staff members will vote to hold a strike to protest the institution’s decision to stop offering single degrees in modern languages.
The University and College Union (UCU) said nearly 30 employees would lose their jobs due to the change.
The union said the university move will discontinue French, German, Spanish, and Gaelic degrees.
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Starting the next academic year, students interested in these languages must pursue joint degrees.
The decision, made by the university court in December, was based on a recommendation from Senior Vice Principal Professor Karl Laydecker.
It stems from the management's assertion that low course enrollment makes the current model unsustainable.
The UCU's ballot on industrial action is underway and will continue until Sunday, February 7.
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Dr. Rachel Shanks, UCU branch chair, said: “Modern languages is a key part of any university.
“Cutting single honours degrees from the university would mean students in the north and north-east having to leave the region to study their subject.
“For an ancient institution with the history and reputation of Aberdeen to consider, this move is frankly embarrassing.
“It’s clear that this is just the start of senior management’s plans.
“It’s important that members send a clear message that we don’t accept the need for jobs to be lost and that we will stand behind and support any member whose job is threatened.”
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