The University of Aberdeen have lost more than 70 academic staff through a voluntary redundancy scheme, it has been revealed.
The university is aiming to axe about 150 posts through voluntary redundancy after announcing earlier this year it was looking to save £10million.
A strike by staff from University and College Union (UCU) was narrowly avoided in June when bosses ruled out compulsory lay-offs until the November 10 deadline had passed.
The latest staffing update comes as the university looks to spend nearly £3,000 on media training for vice-principals and the university secretary.
UCU bosses raised concerns last night over the need for further cuts given the “robust financial position” of the institution.
Dr Andrew Mackillop, Aberdeen UCU representative, said: “We continue to work with the university to look at other areas where savings can be made.
“However, the precise nature of the need for so-called additional savings has to be clearly understood. The university has repeatedly stated it is in a robust financial position.
“With substantial savings already achieved, the current situation is largely about generating a greater operating surplus.
“Enforced job losses to produce a larger surplus is neither fair nor progressive and will badly damage the institution’s local, national and international reputation.
“It will also damage our teaching capacity. We remain absolutely committed to ensuring that students at the university continue to receive the first class education they deserve and expect, which means that the staff need to be in place to teach them.”
Last night Mary Senior, UCU Scotland Official, urged the university to look in-house for training rather than spend £3,000 on bringing media experts in to train senior staff.
An Aberdeen University spokesman said: “The current voluntary severance and early retirement VS/ER Scheme is ongoing and will remain open until November 10, 2015.
“As with any large, high profile organisation, it is important to ensure that our senior spokespeople are professionally equipped to represent the university in the media.”
