University Roundup: Unusual Elections, Honorary PhDs, and UCU Action
From wacky candidates at SU elections, to Doctor Stormzy, here is this week’s University Roundup, featuring news from universities around the country!
“We’re disgraced by this”: Kurdish Society receives leaflets asking if they “have information on dangerous people smugglers”
University of Manchester Kurdish Society posted photos on social media of the leaflets and has questioned the Students’ Unions approach to sensitive post
Disabled student felt discriminated against after access to lifts and bathrooms blocked in Simon Building occupation
Disabled student, taking part in the Simon Building occupation, described experience as “humiliating” after access to lifts and bathrooms blocked
“Together, we will win the future”: Protestors gather in Manchester as part of global demonstrations in solidarity with Türkiye
March 24th saw a massive organisation of Turkish students and members of the community, demonstrating for “the struggle for democracy”
Students occupy the Simon Building on University of Manchester campus
Pro-Palestine groups on campus announce occupation of the Simon Building, calling for the University of Manchester to “stop supporting the genocidal regime”
Proposed “draconian” bill would allow protestors to be arrested for wearing face coverings
Various rights groups have questioned elements of the proposed Crime and Policing Bill that would allow protestors to be arrested for covering their face or climbing memorials
NHS staff retention hits record high in North West
New data has revealed that NHS staff retention in the North West of England, including Manchester, is at one of the highest levels in decades
Bee Network to introduce new ‘tap and go’ system
This contactless system aims to make bus and tram transit easier and more affordable
Manchester Marathon announces new Oxford Road finish line
The Manchester Marathon has announced a new finish line for the upcoming race on April 27, located outside Whitworth Hall
Manchester Oxford Road to close for two years due to remodelling
Manchester Oxford Road station will close for 2 years due to remodelling works
Staff member at University of Greater Manchester sacked over racist audio clip
A senior staff member at the University of Greater Manchester has left after a clip was revealed, exposing racist comments
Universities’ handling of Pro-Palestine protest questioned by Sky News and High Court
Universities responses to Pro-Palestine protest action has been called into question this week due to an investigation by Sky News/Liberty and a High Court ruling
University Roundup: Criminal convictions, spending cuts, and misconduct
From UCL, to Edinburgh University, all the way to the University of Greater Manchester, see the latest stories from Universities around the UK
Main Library section closes temporarily for students
The Muriel Stott Building, based within the main library, will be temporarily closed to students, while redevelopment work takes place.
“I wouldn’t go back if you paid me!”: Students start petition to lower rent price of “dreadful” Brook Hall accommodation
University of Manchester students have started a petition asking for the “unnecessary raise” in rent prices to be changed
LeadMCR 2025: Statistical breakdown of the results
The results of LeadMCR 2025 have been released. Read the full breakdown of voting numbers and society endorsements here
Freedom of Speech Act for Universities revised after delays
Education Secretary Bridget Philipson has given an update on the Higher Education Freedom of Speech Act 2023
President Donald Trump plans to dismantle the Department of Education
The Trump administration plans to diminish the United States Department of Education.
University of Manchester reveals latest accessibility and impact report
The University has outlined its latest efforts to promote access and support for disadvantaged students
Staff at Newcastle University set to go on strike
Newcastle University staff are planning to strike in March, following job losses and budget cuts