University Strikes: What Does This Mean for Students?
Sometimes, workers go on strike. This means they stop working to protest against certain conditions, such as pay or workload. Strikes can happen in many different workplaces, such as hospitals, schools, or transport services.
Lately, there’s been a lot of discussion around university budgets. You might have seen news about funding cuts, staff redundancies, or even closures. If you’ve heard that staff at your university might go on strike (sometimes called Industrial Action), it’s completely normal to feel concerned, or even a bit confused. You’re not alone, many students are in the same position and there are ways you can take positive action.
Why do staff go on strike?
Strikes are usually a last resort. They are usually organised by workers unions when enough union members vote in favour of a strike. Some common issues for striking include:
- Pay and benefits
- Workload
- Job security
- Pension schemes
- Equality in the workplace
Strikes may last for a couple of days or several weeks, depending on how negotiations go.
How do strikes affect students?
It can be an uncertain time, but remember that strikes are never aimed at students, it’s a protest against university management or policies.
You might experience:
- Cancelled classes
- Delayed marking and feedback
- Less access to support services
- Uncertainty about exams or coursework
Why should students care?
The issues often impact the quality of education. Poor working conditions for staff can mean less time for research, limited feedback, and reduced one-on-one support. Many say that fighting for fair treatment of university staff is also fighting for better education overall.
What can you do?
Here are a few ways to navigate the situation:
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from your university, student union, Office for Students and the striking union (UCU in the UK). You’re university might be hosting information sessions, so attend those if you have any questions.
- Communicate: Email your professors or academic advisors with any concerns. They may not be able to reply immediately, but many still want to support students during strikes.
- Get Involved: Some students choose to support the strikes by joining rallies or refusing to cross picket lines. Others show support through student petitions or protests. It’s important to look at your university’s policy regarding students joining strikes and missing lectures, sometimes this can be marked as an absence.
- Look after yourself: Uncertainty can be stressful. Make sure you’re doing your best to manage your work and manage stress. Talk with other people on your course and reach out to professionals for help if you need it.
Where to get help
Meic is here to help everyday from 8am to midnight. We offer free advice, information and advocacy for young people in Wales. We have lots of information and resources about exams, revision, and mental health and wellbeing. You can contact us over the phone, text or Whatsapp message or use our online chat.
