Ilima Finiasi, a leader of the University of the South Pacific (USP) Staff Association, has called for the resignation of Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia, stating that campuses across the region share this demand. In an interview, Finiasi emphasized that the concerns regarding Professor Ahluwalia extend beyond just the Laucala Campus and resonate throughout the entire region.
In response, the university released a statement noting it employs over 1,300 staff across twelve countries, with members of the two main employee unions representing only 41 percent of the total workforce. According to the university, unofficial figures indicated that 25 percent of Academic and Professional Staff, along with 28 percent of Administrative Support Staff, supported the proposed actions.
The university acknowledged the unions’ decision to strike, affirming that it adheres to the provisions set out in Fiji’s Employment Relations Act. On Wednesday, a secret ballot held at the Laucala campus revealed that 95 percent of participating USP staff in Fiji were in favor of the strike after a four-hour voting period that concluded at 4 PM.
The Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) reported a 61 percent turnout, with 96 percent endorsing the strike, while the University Staff and Support Staff Union (USPSU) saw over 70 percent participation, with 94 percent in support. The dissatisfaction primarily stems from unresolved issues regarding Professor Ahluwalia’s leadership, including governance disputes and the recent dismissal of AUSPS President Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, which AUSPS General Secretary Rosalia Fatiaki referred to as the tipping point.
Staff from USP’s locations in Laucala, Lautoka, Labasa, and Savusavu took part in the voting process. Notably, Professor Ahluwalia’s contract was recently extended for an additional two years, set to conclude in 2026.