A former principal of the University of Dundee has been appointed to lead a newly established expert taskforce aimed at steering the struggling institution towards recovery.
Sir Alan Langlands, who previously served as principal and vice-chancellor at both Dundee and Leeds universities, will chair the University of Dundee Strategic Advisory Taskforce. The group has been formed by the Scottish Government in response to a growing financial crisis at the university, which last week warned that up to 700 jobs could be lost as it attempts to address a staggering £35 million deficit.
Sir Alan, a widely respected figure in higher education, brings decades of experience to the role. His past leadership includes a term as chief executive of the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the NHS in England, adding weight to his appointment at this critical juncture.
Scottish Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth announced the formation of the taskforce, stating it will be comprised of leading experts from academia, industry, and both local and national government. The panel’s remit will be to provide “strategic advice” and propose practical recommendations to ensure the university’s long-term success and sustainability.
Speaking about the initiative, Ms Gilruth said:
“We are establishing this taskforce to ensure the University of Dundee has all the important advice and expertise needed to recover and build a strong, secure and sustainable future.”
The group is expected to convene for its first meeting later this month. Its recommendations will play a key role in shaping the university’s recovery strategy, while also examining how the institution can continue to contribute meaningfully to the Dundee city region.
Ms Gilruth reaffirmed the Scottish Government’s commitment to the university’s future, highlighting its significant role in teaching and research, as well as its broader civic and economic impact.
“The impact of the university’s teaching and world-leading research is profound,” she said. “Its success is interwoven with the success of the Dundee city region.”
She added that all avenues for funding and support would be considered as the government works in partnership with the taskforce to protect students and staff.
“We will take account of all potential sources of funding and support, and we will continue to carefully consider any further asks of Government.”
The Scottish Government has already stepped in with a £22 million emergency funding package to help ease immediate pressures at the institution.
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Accepting the chairmanship of the taskforce, Sir Alan said it was a “privilege” to support the university through what he described as “very challenging times”.
“At its core Dundee is a great university in a great city,” he said. “It transforms people’s lives and life chances through education, research and innovation, and contributes so much to the economic, social and cultural life of the city and beyond.”
He welcomed the government’s commitment to the university’s long-term success, noting that it provided a solid platform for the taskforce’s work.
“The Scottish Government’s commitment to ensuring its long-term future and impact, and protecting the interests of students and staff provides a strong foundation for the work of the taskforce.”
The University of Dundee has long been regarded as a key pillar of the city’s economy and reputation, particularly in the fields of life sciences, healthcare, and digital innovation. However, like many institutions across the UK, it now faces mounting pressures from funding shortfalls, rising costs, and fluctuating student numbers.
The strategic advisory taskforce is seen as a vital step in securing the university’s future and restoring confidence amongst staff, students, and the wider community.
