Anger and disappointment at Aberdeen modern languages cut proposal

Commenting after senior managers at Aberdeen university today announced to staff that they are launching a consultation on Modern Languages provision at the university including a proposal to scrap single honours languages degrees, UCU general secretary Jo Grady said:

'Staff delivering language teaching and research at the University of Aberdeen are shocked, angry and disappointed at the news that their jobs are at risk and that Modern Language provision could be drastically reduced at the University.

'The provision of Modern Language degrees is a critical part of enabling an open and outward facing culture that engages with communities across the globe.

'It's very clear from the representations on this issue already from European consulates, from students, and from politicians across the political parties that Modern language provision is valued and should be invested in and supported to flourish.  UCU negotiators will be engaging in the consultation process to save the jobs of dedicated and experienced staff and to sustain the delivery of Modern Languages provision at Aberdeen.

'This move by Aberdeen is part of broader pattern that is developing, of deep cuts and closures of whole departments, especially in arts and humanities which can also be seen in places like Oxford Brookes and Staffordshire. UCU stands with all those threatened, we will not allow members to be picked off, we will fight for them and beat this academic vandalism.'