Alumni Update from University Court September 2022

New beginnings

As a nominated member of the University Court and a member of the Graduates Association, Jane Marshall acts as an intermediary between graduates and the University Court.

‘At this time of year, many of us look back at our own time at university and remember the optimism -and some uncertainty- about the year ahead. Court’s experience is similar, with exciting plans and ambitions jostling with concerns about the impact of higher inflation and reduced public funding.

The last Court meeting before the summer was held on 21 June, chaired by Ronnie Bowie. There was, understandably, a valedictory tone to the meeting. Members thanked Ronnie for his contribution to the progress made by the university in recent years while recognizing that challenges remained and that more ambitions had still to be realized. Both sentiments were present in the discussion held on the budget and 5-year financial plan, which aimed to build on work already done to deliver financial sustainability. External borrowing is to be used to support key capital investment, but there remains a continuing need to make savings and achieve efficiency gains without adversely affecting the student experience and the delivery of our new strategy. Court endorsed the proposals, albeit noting the potential impact of higher inflation. There was relief that the university had been able to weather the pandemic and that matters were returning to normal with the return of graduation ceremonies.

Our most recent Court meeting was held on 25 August, chaired for the first time by Amanda Miller. As with the earlier meeting, most members were able to attend in person. This will be the norm in the future but with a Teams facility available for those members who cannot be present. Court was updated on several important matters, including the formal establishment of the new School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law on 1 August and the appointment of its new Dean, Professor Jeff Blackford. Significant progress is being made on the University’s international partnerships, and student numbers are holding up well.

A lengthy discussion took place about proposed changes to UODSS, the pension scheme for staff of grades 1 to 6 (those in manual, secretarial, clerical, and technical roles). The Court last considered pensions at its meeting in February, when it endorsed a modified defined benefit package and the closure of the scheme for new members. Following further consultation, a proposal incorporating additional changes made in response to staff views and concerns was put to Court. While noting the extra cost, Court decided by a large majority vote to endorse the new proposal.

We very much value the input of our students, who are represented on Court and its committees. We were therefore pleased to hear DUSA present its plans for the coming year and to note its key themes, including student mental health and wellbeing, inclusion, and planning for life beyond university.

Court usually holds an annual Retreat in September, at which strategic issues can be considered in more depth. As part of the transition from one Chair to another, this will take place early in the New Year.

The University’s strategic plan was launched with staff in June, and to students early in the academic year. There has been a growing appreciation of the need to engage with external stakeholders, and presentations and meetings are being held throughout the autumn in Scotland and in 2023 in Westminster.

Jane Marshall