External Influences
Covid-19
From 2021, the major influence on the University has been the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus on teaching methods, returning to campus for students and colleagues has been a challenge to every organisation.
The University returned to full teaching on campus in 2022, however there has been a significant emphasis on safe return and trying to minimise risk to a range of students and colleagues. The organisation has been keen to maximise the benefits of hybrid working, whilst ensuring student have an ‘on campus’ experience. This is often a difficult balance to achieve and has presented a range of challenges across the organisation.
Scottish Funding Council Report
In January 2023, the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) launched their long-awaited report Tackling Persistent Inequalities Together into the persistent inequalities across the tertiary education sector.
This report is the outcome of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between SFC and the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). Scottish HE and FE organisations are now required to address these issues in their PSED Equality Outcomes, or evidence why they are not. The University of Glasgow will therefore revisit our Equality Outcomes and ensure they align with the SFC requirements. This will be planned within the next reporting cycle aiming to publish in advance if possible.
Universities UK Reports
Universities UK has published two reports recent relevant reports one on Islamophobia and the other on Antisemitism. These reports are welcome, and are given due consideration by the relevant Champion, working group or area. Responding appropriately to these reports requires discussion with identified students and colleagues, which are ongoing.