Sioned Williams MS calls for action to protect Swansea University jobs
30.01.2026
Welsh Government asked to provide statement on the impact of their actions to support universities’ workforce
Sioned Williams MS has asked for action to protect the higher education sector in Wales. Ms Williams’ calls come as another redundancy round has been proposed by Swansea University. According to an email sent to staff, 204 academic staff would be at risk of redundancy, and of these, 55 could lose their jobs.
In 2025, 400 staff left the University through voluntary redundancy, and over the last two years, the University has chosen to not appoint to over 200 vacant positions.
Ms Williams raised her concerns with Welsh Government in the Senedd Chamber on Tuesday 27 January 2026. Sioned Williams, Member of Senedd for South Wales West, said:
“The Higher Education sector is in crisis across the UK, but to only talk about this in UK terms is to miss the distinct effect this has on Wales.
“Our Universities are among the Welsh institutions with international recognition. They draw international talent into Wales. The efforts to establish them are a core part of our nation's history. And their economic effect supports the regions they are part of.
“That’s why I’ve asked for a statement from the Minister for Further and Higher Education about how the Welsh Government supports the workforce in our universities, including Swansea University. I'd like to know what assessment the Minister has made of the impact of her actions to support universities' workforce.
“We have to see action being taken to ensure that the contribution of these academics and our universities to our nation is safeguarded.”
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This story was also covered by the following news outlets:
Nation Cymru: Plaid Cymru MS calls for “urgent action” to protect the higher education sector in Wales
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