At 20 members strong, Protect Otago Action Group (or POAG) has formed to fight back against the Uni’s projected staff layoffs in light of their $60 million debt. POAG member Tyler told Critic Te Ārohi that they have a “three pronged campaign” to reversing the proposed staff cuts, starting on May 31st with a joint staff and student protest on Union Lawn at 12pm on May 31st. Expect marching, speeches, and chanting (they’re in their reputation era).
The group formed out of a panel discussion about the cuts at the beginning of May, covered by Critic in Issue 10 [HYPERLINK]. POAG is still very much in its infancy, having had just three meetings to date. According to Tyler, though, it’s rapidly growing with every meet. POAG member Rhona said they plan to become a force for mobilising larger groups through collaboration with organisations like OUSA and the Public Service Association (PSA).
Tyler criticised the mass layoffs as a “worst case scenario” or “last resort” option made to look like it's the only option. “There is a total lack of transparency,” said another member Emma, who claimed that everyone was “blindsided” by the Uni. Among the members is associate-professor Brian Roper who has been openly critical of the Uni’s neoliberal policies.
Brandon, President of the Ōtepoti Tertiary Education Union (TEU) branch, said that the funding issue is due to the “entrenching of neoliberal policy that pushes towards a user pay model.” The recent budget announcement of $4 million for tertiary education in 2024 “will make only a minimal difference,” given the whopping $60 million debt, said acting Vice-Chancellor Helen Nicholson.
While POAG members have some concern over the potential backlash from the Uni, they are not dissuaded from action. “The Uni has an interest in being the critic and conscience of society, so they should reasonably expect protests,” said Tyler. Some staff may have legitimate concern for getting involved as their jobs are on the line, but Tyler said this is all the more reason for staff to protest as there is safety in numbers. Emma encouraged students to get involved as well since not only is their quality of education being threatened, but they are also “less likely to feel the direct impacts for protestings”.
POAG meets at 5:30pm on Wednesdays at OUSA. You can find them on Facebook and Insta.