This year has been challenging for students and lecturers alike, and graduation should be a time where everyone can come together and celebrate their achievements. It is disheartening to see that once again, the lack of a resolution to this dispute has disrupted the university experience for students. Some lecturers at Exeter have taken the difficult decision to strike on multiple dates in July, one of which coincides with graduation on 24th. The struggle for better working conditions has a profound impact on students, as these are the conditions in which you learn. Wages have failed to keep up with inflation for years, resulting in a real-term pay cut for most staff.

Lecturers are planning teach-outs and engagement events during graduation to help parents and students understand the dire state of UK higher education funding. If you want to show your support for the people who have taught you over the last three or four years, UCU are strongly encouraging you to wear bright pink sashes to graduation.

This is absolutely a time for unity and support. We are proud of students for showing resilience and we hope that this dispute can be resolved in the best interests of everyone involved.

If you have any feedback or questions about the strikes, please use the form on the UCU Industrial action page to share your views.

Furthermore, we encourage any student to contact us about the strike and the impact it is having on you, by emailing presidents@thesu.org.uk