Local London Assembly Member, Unmesh Desai AM, joined a ‘People’s Assembly’ teleconference on Monday to speak out against proposed redundancies at the University of East London (UEL).
The proposals form part of restructure plans by the university’s Executive Board in an effort to stem a projected £31 million loss in revenue. Up to 350 jobs across the campus are reportedly at risk, according to Times Higher Education.
Speaking at the event, Mr Desai emphasised the historic role UEL has played in the wider Newham community and praised its focus on lifelong learning.
He warned that cutting staff would lead to a reduction in the range of higher education courses that UEL could offer, further blighting the prospects of local people of all ages, in the midst of an economic crisis.
This follows on from a letter that Mr Desai sent to the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Amanda Broderick, in August, urging her to reconsider the option of large-scale redundancies.
In response, Professor Broderick confirmed that the university has acted to extend its consultation period and is looking at alternative proposals to make up the revenue deficit.
Concerns about the proposed changes at UEL have also been raised by Apsana Begum MP, Deputy Mayor of Newham, Councillor John Gray, Zita Holbourne and Simon de Gale.
Local London Assembly Member, Unmesh Desai AM, said:
“I was pleased to speak in solidarity with other trade union campaigners and local politicians against the proposed staff cuts at UEL.
“Whilst we should of course acknowledge the financial turmoil the higher education sector is facing right now, the pandemic should not be used as an excuse to rush through large-scale redundancies.
“UEL has played a historic and significant role in the community, offering lifelong learning to people of all backgrounds. As we confront a recession, the invaluable services it currently offers should not be placed at risk.
“I hope the Executive Board will listen to the growing chorus of calls around this and more closely consult with staff and students and find a fairer and more sustainable solution”.
Related documents
Unmesh Desai AM Letter to UEL
UEL Response Letter to Unmesh Desai AM
Notes to editors
- More information about the People’s Assembly event, which took place on Monday 7th September, can be found here;
- Copies of Unmesh Desai AM’s recent correspondence with the Vice Chancellor of the University of East London, Professor Anna Broderick, can be found attached;
- It has been reported by Times Higher Education that the changes proposed by the Executive Board of the University of East London could lead to 350 job losses;
- Unmesh Desai AM is the London Assembly Member for City and East.