Abertay students condemn merger

STUDENT leaders at Abertay University last night condemned plans to merge the institution with its neighbour Dundee University as part of a drive to cut higher education costs.

William Mohieddeen, president of Abertay Students’ Association, said it was vital that Abertay maintained its independent status after it was announced that both institutions have been asked by the Scottish Funding Council to enter urgent discussions about a merger.

“It is important for current and future students that Abertay is independent and in a position to keep doing what we do as we do it best,” Mohieddeen said.

“Abertay contributes significant academic value to Scotland, and we are making our achievements as an independent institution.

“In a difficult climate for higher education, institutions like Abertay should be protected and supported to continue its work in widening participation and what students here achieve in terms of academic excellence.”

Mohieddeen’s comments were echoed by the Dundee-based Labour MSP Jenny Marra, who said: “What the Scottish Government gives to Dundee with one hand they take away with the other.

“Abertay is absolutely integral to the economic development of our city. Its world-class teaching and research in areas like computer games technology has spawned an industry in Dundee which is vital for growth.”

Both universities have expressed dismay about the talks, with Dundee describing them as “totally unexpected”.

Last week, First Minister Alex Salmond failed to give a direct answer to questions in the Scottish Parliament about the future of Abertay, repeatedly referring MSPs to a statement by the Education Secretary Mike Russell that suggested that mergers could save money.

Abertay is one of the smallest universities in the UK, but is regarded as one of the best for environmental science and computer gaming.