UTEB calls for full disclosure of UB’s financial affairs

The Union of Tertiary Educators of The Bahamas (UTEB) yesterday called for the University of The Bahamas’ (UB) board of trustees to be more transparent about the finances of the university.

The statement came following news that the university is considering pay cuts for staff.

“We encourage Dr. Jonathan Rogers and Ms. Holowesko, chair and deputy chair of University of The Bahamas board of trustees, to engage their fellow trustees to strategically plan for the success of our academy and to do so in a transparent manner by providing detailed information about the financial affairs of UB,” the statement said.

“We need full disclosure from the university on the financials of UB. Aggregated data provided does not give sufficient insight into the financial affairs of the university.

“The board of trustees must not be afraid to expose the extravagance of UB senior team.

“Finally, we implore the board of trustees to identify a lead negotiator so we can begin to discuss cost-saving and revenue-enhancing measures for our national university.”

On Wednesday, The Guardian revealed that UB’s board is considering 20 percent salary cuts as well as 50/50 insurance contributions at the university.

This paper understands that it is also considering sending faculty over 65, as well as faculty with 30 to 40 years of service, into retirement.

The board is reportedly considering an increase in faculty load and class sizes and an elimination of mileage and non-essential staff positions, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Following the revelation, UTEB President Daniel Thompson suggested UB place a moratorium on new hires and halt the renewal of contracts for faculty retirees and faculty over 70.

Thompson also suggested that UB get rid of its new executive vice president and appoint an acting executive vice president, engage retired faculty on a part-time basis, enhance energy saving by monitoring the usage of lights and air conditions, reduce overseas travel and revisit its outsourcing policy.

UTEB said the faculty intends to meet on Wednesday and prepare a “more comprehensive response to how we can ensure the sustainability of our university”.

“The role that University of The Bahamas plays in national development now and in the future necessitates national investment in tertiary-level education,” the statement said.

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source https://thenassauguardian.com/2020/07/06/uteb-calls-for-full-disclosure-of-ubs-financial-affairs/