'Merger is not the only possible outcome' — education secretary signals Abertay University U-turn
Education secretary Michael Russell has signalled a dramatic U-turn by saying a full merger between Abertay and Dundee universities is not inevitable.
- By Stefan Morkis
- Published in the Courier : 27.09.11
- Published online : 27.09.11 @ 09.25am
Although the two institutions were both sent letters by the Scottish Funding Council last week telling them to begin urgent discussions over a possible merger, the Scottish Government has now back-pedalled and suggested Abertay could yet remain independent.
The order to begin merger talks prompted a massive public outcry, with many people believing Abertay's identity would be subsumed by the larger university.
In a letter sent to city MSPs — seen by The Courier — Mr Russell says there is a need for Abertay to consider ''its future actions and plans'' but that does not mean a full merger with Dundee University is the only possible outcome.
Dundee City East MSP Shona Robison said Abertay could retain its independence by developing more shared services, particularly backroom operations, with Dundee and eliminating duplicated courses.
''Joe FitzPatrick and I have been working very hard behind the scenes to reach this outcome for Abertay, which will mean it can remain a thriving, independent and autonomous university by seizing the momentum and looking at how, by working collaboratively with Dundee University, they can look at sharing some services,'' Ms Robison said on Monday.
In their letter, the MSPs also suggest the two universities explore creating a city campus they could share with Dundee College to reduce costs.
Although he insists he wants to see Abertay develop a closer working relationship with Dundee and has not completely ruled out a merger, Mr Russell's response will offer campaigners hope that Abertay will not lose its independence.
Mr Russell states: ''Abertay has gone through a very difficult period recently, during which there has been a considerable expenditure of public money by the court on resolving unfortunate personnel disputes. That process also led to the resignation from the court of some key individuals.
''Clearly, therefore there is a need for Abertay to consider its actions and plans very carefully. The decision by the Scottish Funding Council to suggest that a review was undertaken before the appointment of a new principal was a sensible one.
''It was also appropriate to seek the views of Dundee University on the matter, fully recognising that universities are autonomous institutions, albeit ones that receive significant government funding.
''However, for the record, can I say that I do not believe that merger is the only possible outcome of the review process.''
He says an increase in shared services will have to be part of Abertay's future.
Mr Russell adds: ''These proposals need to be seen in the context of the regionalisation of educational delivery ... A focus on serving the surrounding region in a joined up and coordinated way and better use of the duplication in estates provision which exists within the city would be valuable platforms for any future changes.''
Mr Russell said he is willing to visit Dundee to meet various parties on the subject.
The education secretary concluded that he believes discussions should take place as soon as possible but that no strict deadline will be enforced.
10.35am - 27.09.2011 Art McG - Newport-on-Tay, Scotland Report This
Are the SNP starting to realise that their MPs and MSPs plus their running of Dundee Council is under threat following their badly judged earlier announcement via the SFC? Abertay have already cut back their services depts - how much cutting before the service to the students deteriates?
11.42am - 27.09.2011 Aremkay - Dundee, Scotland Report This
The best outcome for Abertay students would be a merger with Dundee University, whose reputation is far higher. Those who keep preaching about the validity of Abertay need to remember they offer a degree in Golf Course Management. Why should the state fund such a ridiculous degree?
12.24pm - 27.09.2011 KNW - DUNDEE, Scotland Report This
This is what you get for voting SNP-so few ideas they go for the easy option. Abertay has THE most prestigous courses in Europe on ethical hacking, computer gaming and design. Dundee cannot lay claim to such a title for any course-Abertay is far and more relevant & in touch with the young of Dundee
12.44pm - 27.09.2011 James - dundee, uk Report This
Aremkay - Is that the same Dundee University that offers a degree in Comic Studies? Abertay has a successful mission in delivering vocational degrees Computer Games, Food Sciences, etc. Managing a golf course is not just cutting grass - there is the marketing, management of finances etc.
01.22pm - 27.09.2011 Declan Mc - Dundee, UK Report This
Mike Russell's back-pedalling is nothing short if contemptuous. He makes demands, not himself, but through the SFC, but now intervenes himself. What a joke. Both Unis should tell him, not too politely, to go and get stuffed. This is blatant opportunstic politicking as Art McG points out.
01.31pm - 27.09.2011 Marg - Fife, Scotland UK Report This
The SNP is showing contempt for Dundee here. Last week it was decided that a merger take place. No ifs and buts. Apparently now it's not really necessary. Or has Mike Russell got some other scheme up his sleeve. Speaking as a parent our universities need a more professional approach than this
01.36pm - 27.09.2011 cy - dundee, scotland Report This
I have to say that I am disappointed by a couple of remarks made above. The SNP is on the run because it now realizes it faces outright hostility on this matter. Staying united and together is the key. Bickering about who is more "relevant" is pointless and only drives a wedge between us.
01.39pm - 27.09.2011 Caitlyn - Forfar, Scotland Report This
Dundee University has a much better reputation than Abertay, which isn't really a 'uni' at all, but a polytechnic that somehow managed to get university status. Abertay's students would be better off if there were a merger.
03.07pm - 27.09.2011 Parent of student - Perthshire, Scotland Report This
One word and that is a NO!!
03.38pm - 27.09.2011 Fed up of Abertay bashers - Dundee, Scotland Report This
How is Abertay any less of a Uni than Dundee? Because its smaller? Newer? Has lower entry grades for some courses? Abertay works hard to help students get good, useful degrees. A degree is made up of SCQF credit points, one credit from Abertay is of equal value to a credit from Dundee uni.
Add a comment