Covid-19 Cost Aberystwyth University £3.2 million

Aberystwyth University released their annual report on Friday 28th January.

The university have reported a deficit of £3.2 million for the academic year 2020/21. They state that this is "in line with budget expectations and monitoring undertaken throughout the year."

Throughout the report, contributors commented on the many achievements made at over the course of the year, and how impressed they are with the students and staff who "battled to maintain the educational experience".

Professor Elizabeth Treasure, Vice Chancellor, stated that: "This year has been a year like no other in the history of this historic institution. It was the year during which the COVID-19 pandemic had its most significant impact on the operations for which we are renowned - our teaching and our research."

She goes on to describe the response to the challenges posed by Covid-19 as "truly inspiring", and the achievements made as "a source of great pride and gratitude."

In regards to the reported financial deficit, Professor Treasure commented: "These short-term costs don't reflect the financial sustainability of the university, and without them we would have reported a moderate surplus this financial year."

In spite of the pandemic, the university achieved higher than anticipated levels of student applications and admittances, and increased research income to more than £20 million. In addition to this, Aberystwyth University was named the top university in Wales by the National Student Survey for the sixth consecutive year.