The Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of the South Pacific (USP), Professor Pal Ahluwalia, is embroiled in controversy once again, as staff unions have called for his resignation. The University of the South Pacific Staff Union (USPSU) and the President of the University Association of USP Staff (AUSPS) are staging protests at USP’s Laucala Campus, demanding Mr. Ahluwalia’s immediate removal.
The unions claim that his leadership is inadequate and are urging the university’s Special Council to investigate management and human resource issues that occurred during his tenure. This backlash is particularly notable, given that many of the protesting staff previously supported Mr. Ahluwalia’s return to Fiji after his contentious deportation by the former government. The initial support has now turned into frustration and dissatisfaction.
A significant point of contention is the dismissal of biologist Dr. Tamara Osborne-Naikatini, who previously served as president of AUSPS and was terminated in July. Her dismissal followed an interview with Islands Business, which Mr. Ahluwalia deemed a severe breach of confidentiality, leading to claims of “gross misconduct.”
The strike has disrupted classes, leaving some students arriving to find their classrooms empty and unaware of the unfolding situation. Additionally, unions have expressed anger over reports that Professor Ahluwalia is currently overseas on vacation during this crisis, raising further doubts about his leadership.
Meanwhile, government ministers have remained silent on the issue. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro and Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the escalating dispute, leading many to question the government’s stance on the unfolding unrest.
As the university faces staff discontent and operational challenges, attention is now focused on USP’s management and their response to these serious allegations, as well as the effort to restore stability at the institution.