Interesting times on campus at present. Pickets were at the gates of City this morning, justifiably demanding that pay is recognised and maintained at an appropriate level. Rumours suggest as big as a 7 per cent staff cut at City and other departments are likely to feel similar strain. University cuts may appear an obvious short term way to save money but all of us have benefited from higher education and surely this is one way to move the economy forward longer term. I'd much rather see curbs in bonuses and increased onus on the private sector to repay university investment. Which brings us nicely to....
I know some colleagues are looking with interest towards Plymouth as a future opportunity. It is even more surprising that a new department is opening against the current backdrop. If this to be a small department with an eye on providing local skills and possibly develop a research output then I've no problem with this. Not sure how they will ensure a 'local education for local people' policy though.