The University and College Union’s Edinburgh branch (UCUE) held a rally in Bristo Square on Wednesday 1 April at 12pm, in a week of industrial action against staff cuts.
Striking staff at the University of Edinburgh were joined by members of Heriot-Watt UCU, with speeches made by representatives of both branches, as well as several Members of Scottish Parliament (MSPs).
UCU Edinburgh branch president, Sophia Woodman, told The Student: “I think the turnout today has been fabulous, and I think so many speakers spoke to the need for a really systemic answer to this question.”
“From an Edinburgh perspective, our principal should be ashamed that he has set off this chain reaction of staff cuts across higher education in Scotland, legitimising the idea that even if you don’t have a serious financial crisis, you should choose this moment to cut back your staff.”
“I think the clear message from today is we won’t stand for this. Staff won’t stand for it, students won’t stand for it, and in Scotland, we really need better, and we really need the politicians to step up and do something.”
Scottish Labour MSP for the Lothian region, Sarah Boyack, told The Student: “I thought it was a fantastic turnout today, and to have people from Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt, Napier QMU.”
“It’s really important to make the case for higher education so that we have students with lecturers, and staff to support them.”
“It could not be more important for our economy, but also for who we are in Scotland. Thanks to the trade unions for getting organised and getting us all here.”
While the rally had a high turnout among UCU members, participation of students in supporting striking workers at rallies or on picket lines continues to be limited.
Asked about the importance of student engagement, Lucy Keaveny, a second year student at the rally, said, “It’s important for [us] to be here because the cuts affect our education.”
“In-person hours will be cut, and courses will be cuts, specifically targeting languages and humanities.”
“To encourage people to get out [to support striking staff], I would say join societies that encourage people to go as a group.”
Members of Edinburgh University’s Justice for Palestine Society were also in attendance, in a continuation of solidarity that has been seen between the two movements — deemed deeply connected by both parts.
Image by Martha Fiddick for The Student.