14 June 2004
Victoria University’s massive surplus the perfect excuse for fee cuts and staff salary increases
Victoria University is second only to Massey in terms of the highest surplus recorded by universities in 2003, and has
the highest staff/student ratios in the country putting academic quality at Victoria at risk.
“The University’s claims that they were forced to raise student fees and that they cannot afford to meet staff pay
claims are hollow given their massive surplus in 2003,” said Amanda Hill, President of the Victoria University Students’
Association (VUWSA).
“In 2003, we had 22.5 students for every staff member, increased from 20.8 in 2002” said Victoria University of
Wellington Students’ Association (VUWSA) president Amanda Hill.
“Reductions in staff to student ratios puts immense pressure on our academic staff and brings into question the quality
of education available at Victoria in such large classes,” said Hill. “Some classes defy safety regulations, enrolling
more students than can be safely seated in a lecture theatre.”
“The time is right for the University to cut student fees and increase staff wages.”
“It is obvious that profit rules the thinking of Victoria’s management - the wellbeing of staff, quality of education
and financial burden on students all trail behind the mighty dollar,” said Hill today.
ENDS